How to Build the Ultimate Horseshoe Pits

Horseshoe is a classic backyard game, developed from an ancient Greek game of disk throwing. Horseshoe can be played in pairs or with two individuals playing against each other. Horseshoe requires minimal materials including two stakes, sand, and traditionally discarded horse shoes. Standing 40 feet back from a metal stake, the goal in horseshoe is to throw the horseshoe the length of the field and hit the stake.



It takes a bit of time to master the game of horseshoe, so don't be discouraged when you first start playing. The challenge is the foundation of the fun.

Things You'll Need

• 8 - 6 foot long 2x8's
• 2 - 6 foot by 6 foot 1/2 inch thick plywood board
• 2 - 1 inch by 15 inch stakes
• 23.766 square feet of sand
• 4 horseshoes

Instructions

1. Identify a level playing field, at least 46 feet long and 6 feet wide. Ideally, the playing field will face north to south to prevent sun glare for players.

2. Construct the pitchers box. Frame the 6-by-6 1/2 inch plywood board with four 6 foot by 6 foot 2-by-8's. Drill a 1 inch hole in the center of the plywood board.

3. Place one pitchers block at the northern end of the 46 foot playing field and the other pitchers block at the southern end of the 46 foot playing field. Ensure the pitchers blocks are level.

4. Place the 1 inch metal stake in the hole in the center of the pitchers block. Secure the stake to ensure it is standing at a 90 degree angle to the plywood board.

5. Fill each pitchers block with sand, 8 inches deep.

Tips & Warnings

• Each horseshoe should weigh 2.8 pounds, be 7 inches wide, 5/8 inches long and 3.5 inches wide for regulation play.

• The dimensions listed here are the minimum dimensions required for a game of horseshoe. A space larger then 6 feet wide and 46 feet long is preferable.

References

• In Depth Info: The History of Horseshoes
• Masters Games: The Rules of Horseshoe