How to Make Barn Saddle Rack

Saddle racks are manufactured by several companies in a wide variety of materials and are available at tack and feed stores. However, many times these manufactured saddle racks also carry hefty price tags. As an alternative to purchasing a pre-made rack you might consider building your own. Not only will you be able to customize the rack for a particular saddle but you will also gain the satisfaction of constructing your own. Wooden saddle racks can also be an attractive alternative to the manufactured metal racks.

Things You'll Need

  • 2x12-inch lumber
  • Hammer or screwdriver
  • Nails or screws
  • Saw
  • Measuring tape
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Instructions

  1. How to Make a Barn Saddle Rack

    • 1

      Begin by measuring the length of the saddle for which the stand will be made. Measure the saddle from front to back taking into consideration the entire length which you will want to be supported by the rack. Also consider the saddle blanket, which may also be stored on the rack from time to time.

    • 2

      Next, using the measurement from the saddle and a tape measure, mark the 2x12-inch lumber so that you will yield two sections. Cut the sections with the saw attempting to keep the edge as straight as possible. Supporting the lumber on saw horses or another flat surface will enable you to place pressure on the board while cutting which will help prevent the board from moving.

    • 3

      You will also need to cut two additional pieces of the 2x12-inch lumber which will act as upright supports. Determine the height at which you would like the saddle rack to be and mark this on the lumber. Repeat the process for cutting taking care to make the cuts as straight as possible. On one end cut an upside down V shape of about 30 degrees, or around 4 inches down on each side. The finished board should look like a tall house shape. Repeat the process for the other support board. The angles on top will allow the saddle to hang over the rack.

    • 4

      Using nails or screws, attach the top pieces to the uprights and secure. Attach the supports so that the fit is flush to the top boards. Over lap the top boards to one another as this is important to provide support for both the rack and saddle. Make sure the boards are aligned for a good finish.

    • 5

      Cut a support piece of wood which will fit about half way down between the uprights. This board should be the length of the saddle support boards (top) minus the width of the upright support boards. The width of the boards is not actually 2 inches but closer to 1 1/2 inches, so you will need to subtract 3 inches for a good fit. Attach this board vertically in the center of the supports with screws or nails.

    • 6

      The final step is to cut floor supports. Measure the width of the top saddle support pieces from side to side. This will be the width of your floor supports. Cut these pieces following the same procedure as previously outlined. Set each piece under an upright support making sure the longer length is running from side to side and not front to back. Secure these pieces to the bottom of the uprights and your are done.