How to Build Horseshoe Pit Stakes

Horseshoe pit stakes are made of uniform pieces of metal driven into the ground. The metal stakes are aligned in the pit to create the primary target. Building the stakes is a simple process, but the stakes must remain stable when set in the ground. Unstable stakes shift and change the pace of the game by requiring adjustments. You can build a stable stake for a permanent or portable pit in less than one hour with readily available materials.

Things You'll Need

  • Tape measure
  • 1-inch diameter rebar
  • Hacksaw
  • Quick-set cement
  • 1-gallon bucket
  • Large plastic drinking cups
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure one piece of 1-inch-diameter rebar at 24 inches in length. Use a hacksaw to cut the rebar to length. Repeat the process on a second piece of rebar.

    • 2

      Mix a batch of quick-set cement with water in a 1-gallon bucket. Pour the cement into two large plastic drinking cups. Set one piece of rebar in each cup. Tilt the rebar to create a slight angle with the cup flat on the ground. The horseshoe regulations call for a 3-inch angle on the stakes. Leave the cement and rebar untouched until it has dried.

    • 3

      Remove the cup to expose the cement base and rebar stake. Measure a distance of 40 feet in the horseshoe pit. Mark each end of the measurement with a line in the sand. Dig a 10-inch-deep hole on each marking. Set one concrete base in each hole.

    • 4

      Adjust the position of the stakes with the angles acing toward each other. The slight angle prevents the stakes from pushing backwards and moving on impact. Measure the height of the stakes to 14 inches above ground. Make slight adjustments in the hole depth until the measurement is accurate, then fill the hole with dirt.

    • 5

      Stomp on the dirt around the stake to pack it tight. Wiggle the stake to ensure you have set it in a stable position.