Finally Building My Shooting Deck for Ballistic Testing

Published on July 8, 2019
Duration: 3:04

This guide details the process of constructing a shooting deck for ballistic testing, emphasizing a practical, 'redneck style' approach to overcome terrain challenges. The steps involve building a platform, digging and setting support legs in concrete, ensuring proper leveling, and finally installing the decking. This DIY project aims to create a stable and functional space for short-range accuracy and ballistics testing without significant expense.

Quick Summary

A 'redneck style' shooting deck construction involves building the platform first, then setting it into pre-dug holes for legs. This method simplifies leveling on uneven terrain. Holes are dug, the platform is placed, leveled with gravel and sand, and secured with concrete. Additional cross beams and double pinning legs enhance stability for ballistic testing.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Starting the Deck Construction
  2. 00:07Redneck Style Construction Approach
  3. 00:13Platform Positioning and Hole Digging
  4. 00:28Leveling and Concrete Pouring
  5. 00:43Digging Post Holes
  6. 00:47Setting Platform in Holes
  7. 00:57Platform Height and Ground Depth
  8. 01:12Cementing Footings and Leveling
  9. 01:22Adding Cross Members and Decking Prep
  10. 01:33Increased Shooting Space and Ballistics Testing
  11. 01:53Finalizing Footers and Drainage
  12. 01:58Ready for Decking and Completion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 'redneck style' method for building a shooting deck?

The 'redneck style' involves building the platform first, then positioning it temporarily to mark leg placement. Holes are dug, the platform is set into them, leveled with gravel and sand, and then secured with concrete, minimizing complex work on uneven terrain.

How do you ensure a shooting deck is stable when built on uneven ground?

Stability is achieved by digging deep post holes, using gravel and sand for precise leveling, and pouring concrete to secure the legs. Adding extra cross beams and 'double pinning' each leg further reinforces the structure.

What is the primary purpose of building a shooting deck like this?

The primary purpose is to create an elevated and stable platform that provides increased space and distance for conducting short-range accuracy assessments and detailed ballistics testing of firearms and ammunition.

What materials are needed for the concrete footings of a shooting deck?

Essential materials for the concrete footings include a concrete mix like Kwik Krete, gravel for initial leveling and drainage, and sand for fine-tuning the platform's level before the concrete sets.

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