May 30, 2021
Using Metal to Build Your Hunting Blind
Target Metal When Building Your Hunting Blind
Metal or wood: which material will you use when building your next hunting blind? Each has its own set of pros and cons, but metal stands out when considering strength and longevity.
Longevity: Some industries statistics cite the average lifespan of lumber, when properly treated, can often be in the range of 10-15 years.
Metal, by comparison, can have an infinite lifespan. The importance of ensuring that longevity comes with choosing the right grade and treatment. See details below.
Metal can also hold-up well when transporting your hunting blind. Those who plan to transport blinds from one area to another must take into the consideration the wear and tear that comes with disassembly and transportation.
Metal holds up well during such activities, which is a testament to its strength.
Strength: The strength of your material will be put to the test out in its environment.
Lumber can be highly susceptible to harsh weather and environmental conditions. For instance, high degrees of heat can make wood expand, while extreme cold can cause shrinkage. Both cases could potentially lead to cracks or loose joints. Humidity is another factor, often causing wood to expand and contract.
The strength of metal, on the other hand, is one of its competitive advantages. The level of strength is dependent upon the alloying elements of metal. And this is typically measured in two forms:
a. Yield strength: Measuring the strength of a metal’s shape—the point at which it will begin to deform
b. Tensile strength (also referred to as ultimate strength): Measuring the level at which metal can be stretched before it breaks.
Factor these two forms together to help determine the strength of your grade. For instance, A36 is a commonly specified structural steel plate.
While stronger grades of carbon steel exist, A36 can be a good choice for hunting blinds due to its good welding properties and high yield strength.
Ready to build your next hunting blind using metal? Here are some typical products used:
