Homemade Rails for Snowboarding

With your own snowboarding rail, it can be easy to stay in practice when you can't get to the mountain. Building your own rail is a fairly easy task, requiring only some tools, some know-how and some time. This is an excellent backyard project for beginner and veteran snowboarders alike. The rail is low enough that you can practice your moves in very little snow, even without any other equipment. It is also easy to move around your yard and match with other surfaces.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

1 4-foot or longer 4x4
3 pier blocks
3 5-inch, 1/2 diameter carriage bolts with nuts and washers
1 8-foot 2x4
Saw
File and sandpaper
Stain
Power screwdriver with 1/2-inch diameter drill bit
3-inch wood screws
Tape measure

Step 1

Cut the 4x4 into three 16-inch lengths. In the center of one end of each 4x4, cut a notch 1.5 inches deep and 1.5 inches wide. Smooth the notch so it is square.

Step 2

Place each 16-inch 4x4 on a pier block and drill a 1/2 hole to match the fitting on the block.

Step 3

Secure each 4x4 with a 1/2-inch bolt.

Step 4

Lay the 2x4 in the notches on the 4x4s, with a vertical support at each end and one in the center. Screw them into place.

Step 5

Stain the rail before use. This will make it last longer. Allow it to dry for 24 hours before use.

Step 6

Bury the pier blocks in snow before using the rail. This will both make the rail more sturdy and cover up the hard blocks.

Step 7

Before use, spray the rail with water and allow it to freeze overnight. This will both protect the rail and make it slicker. Applying water after every use will ensure your rail's longevity.

Tips & Warnings

Always use protective gear when using power tools.

Do not use the rail without snow.

Article Written By Beau Prichard

Beau Prichard has been a freelance writer and editor since 1999. He specializes in fiction, travel and writing coaching. He has traveled in the United Kingdom, Europe, Mexico and Australia. Prichard grew up in New Zealand and holds a Bachelor of Arts in writing from George Fox University.

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