How to Make a Grinding Rail for Snowboarding
Snowboarding as a sport involves more than just surfing down a mountain covered with snow. Unlike skiing, a snowboard works like a skateboard on snow. A user performs tricks with both snow and any nearby structures, depending on his skill level. One popular piece of equipment involves the grinding rail. With the basic structure supported by various anchored vertical supports and banked-up snow, a snowboard can utilize a rail for a variety of snowboard tricks and slides.
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Things You'll Need
- 3 4-by-4 wood planks at least 10 feet long
- Power saw
- Metal brackets
- Screws
- Power drill
Instructions
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1
Use a power saw to the first 4-by-4 plank of wood. Cut the first beam so that the length measures 10 feet total. Discard any excess wood. Cut the second 4-by-4 plank so that you produce 3 pieces each 3 feet long. Save the third plank for the construction of the feet in Step 2.
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2
Cut the third 4-by-4 plank in four places. Make each piece a foot and half in length. Discard the excess wood.
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3
Attach the 3-foot-long pieces as legs to the 10-foot rail. Position them so they attach as vertical legs for the rail. Secure them in place with metal brackets and wood screws. Use a power drill to drive the screws into place.
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4
Position the one-and-a-half-foot-long pieces as feet to the 3-foot-long legs on the bottom. Use screws and secure them in place perpendicular to the rail.
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5
Paint the rail assembly with waterproof paint and a paintbrush.
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Bring the homemade snowboard rail up to the mountains where there is snow. Position the rail assembly on a slope. Move snow into place to anchor the feet and legs. Snowboard down the slope and enjoy performing tricks on the rail.
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Tips & Warnings
If riding a rail for the first time, pack the snow high so you can get used to popping up to the rail easily and then sliding off. As you get better, you can position the rail higher and higher off the snow for better tricks.
Always wear safety gear when snowboarding. This can help prevent serious injuries from occurring due to falls and their impact.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Comstock/Getty Images
