How To Make Your Own Gallows

To build the do-it-yourself gallows you will need:

• 6, 8-ft 4x4s
• 8 metal truss plates to attach the 4x4s together
• 24, 3" screws
• 24, 1" screws
  

Estimated time: 4 hours

The Scene:
Up ahead in the dimly lit haze, you see the silhouette of a skeleton hanging from the gallows. Next to the skeleton there appears to be a live body. Unfortunately, there is no where to go but directly through the gallows. As you approach, you hear screams, "I'm innocent, I tell you! Don't let him do this to me. Help!" The executioner lets out a laugh that turns your blood to ice as he forcefully kicks the chair out from under the condemned. The body twitches for a second then hangs limp, and you have no choice but to walk within inches of the dead...

Directions:
1.  Cut one of the 4x4s in half so you have 2 4-ft lengths.
2.  Cut one of the 4x4s into 4 leg braces that are 26 inches long on the long side and 18 long on the short side (see figure below).
3.  Cut one of the 4x4s into 2 top braces that are 32 inches long on the long side and 24 inches long on the short side (see figure below).

4.  Assemble 2 legs as shown in the figure below. Use the smaller diagonal braces. Attach a truss plate to the front and the back.



The truss plate looks like:



5.  Now, stand the leg pieces upright and set the remaining 8-ft 4x4 so it rests on top of the upright legs. Use the truss plate to secure the 4x4s together, then go back and add the angle braces for support. There should be a truss plate on the front and back of each side.



6.  Now, add cobwebs, skeletons, and ropes for effect.





Fat ropes look the best:





To tie a noose:



You may even want to add a real person for effect:



Because you used screws, it's very easy to disassemble and store. If you use new 4x4s, consider storing it outside in the rain and snow for a year. This will give it a good weathered look.