How to Build a Log Jack

Building a log jack is a great project for anyone who enjoys working with wood and wants a handy tool for handling logs. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you build your own log jack:

Materials Needed:

1. 2x6 lumber (4 pieces, 8 feet long)

2. 2x4 lumber (2 pieces, 8 feet long)

3. 1-inch carriage bolts (4 pieces, 4 inches long)

4. 1/2-inch carriage bolts (4 pieces, 3 inches long)

5. 1/2-inch washers (8 pieces)

6. Galvanized steel chain (10 feet long)

7. 1/2-inch clevis (2 pieces)

8. 1/2-inch pins (2 pieces)

9. Hammer

10. Drill

11. Measuring tape

12. Pencil

13. Wood screws

14. Sander

15. Stain or paint (optional)

Step 1: Preparing the Materials

1. Cut the lumber into the following lengths:

- 4 pieces of 2x6 lumber at 36 inches long

- 4 pieces of 2x6 lumber at 28 inches long

- 2 pieces of 2x4 lumber at 24 inches long

Step 2: Assembling the Frame

1. Take the four 36-inch 2x6 lumber pieces and lay them on the ground in a rectangle, with the shorter edges facing each other.

2. Place the two 24-inch 2x4 lumber pieces inside the rectangle, one near each end. These pieces will act as cross-supports.

3. Drill pilot holes through the 2x6 and 2x4 pieces where they intersect, being careful not to drill all the way through.

4. Secure the frame using 3-inch carriage bolts, washers, and a hammer.

Step 3: Attaching the Lifting Arms

1. Cut the remaining two 28-inch 2x6 lumber pieces in half, resulting in four 14-inch pieces. These will be the lifting arms.

2. Attach the lifting arms to the frame by drilling pilot holes and securing them with 4-inch carriage bolts, washers, and a hammer.

3. Position the lifting arms so that they angle outward from the frame.

Step 4: Adding the Chain and Clevises

1. Take the galvanized steel chain and cut it in half, resulting in two 5-foot pieces.

2. Attach the clevises to the ends of the chain by sliding the pins through the holes and securing them with a hammer.

3. Hook one end of each chain to the lifting arms and secure it with a pin.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

1. Sand the entire log jack to smooth out any rough edges.

2. Apply a coat of stain or paint to the log jack for protection and aesthetics (optional).

Your log jack is now ready to use! Simply position it under a log, hook the chains around it, and lift by pulling on the chains. The log jack provides leverage, making it easy to lift and move logs safely and efficiently.