How to Build Your Own Grind Rail

Grind rails are a round or square rail that skateboarders, inline skaters, BMX bikers and skiers use to perform tricks like slides or grinds. They are commonly found in skate parks. Building a grind rail allows you to practice grinding at any time without having to leave home. A grind rail constructed of only steel must be welded, but you can make a wood and steel version that will serve the same purpose without requiring welding equipment or skills.

Things You'll Need

  • 2 pieces 2-by-4 inch lumber, 10 feet long
  • Screwdriver
  • 2 1/2-inch screws
  • 2 pieces 1/2 inch plywood, 7-inch-wide strips
  • 1 5/8-inch screws
  • Drill
  • 3/8-inch drill bit
  • 3/16-inch drill bit
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place a 10-foot-long 2-by-4 inch board on a flat surface. Place a second board of identical size on its side in the center of the first board. Attach the board with a screwdriver by screwing 2 1/2-inch screws through the flat board into the other board. Place a screw every 6 inches.

    • 2

      Lay a 10-foot-long 2-by-6 inch board on a flat surface. Place the attached boards in the center and secure by screwing 2 1/2-inch screws through the top of the flat 2-by-4 inch board into the 2-by-6 inch board. Place a screw every 8 inches. This is the base of the grind rail.

    • 3

      Secure a 7-inch-wide strip of 1/2-inch plywood on each side of the base to stabilize it. Lay a 7-inch-wide strip of 1/2-inch plywood on one side of the base and secure it with 1 5/8-inch screws placed every 6 inches along the top and bottom. Repeat to attach a second strip of plywood to the opposite side.

    • 4

      Drill a hole 2 inches from each end on the top of a 10-foot-long square steel rail with a 3/8-inch drill bit. Drill a hole through the bottom of the rail with a 3/16-inch drill bit beneath each hole. Drill similar holes every 4 inches. Insert a 1 5/8-inch screw into each hole and screw it into the 2-by-4 inch board beneath the rail.