Slackline Without Trees - How to Build an A-Frame

by wakeboardfool in Outside > Sports

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Slackline Without Trees - How to Build an A-Frame

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I have a large yard but no two trees are close enough to set up a slackline. I've always thought about doing a deadman's anchor and finally decided to do it. Here is how I did it:

Pick Your Spot and Dig Out the Grass

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Cut out the grass so you can replace it later.

Start Digging

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Dig about 3 or 4 feet across and a few feet down. If you live in southwest Missouri like I do than you will not enjoy this step. There are more rocks than dirt.

Make It a "T"

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Once you've dug the initial ditch, dig another one to make a "T." The second ditch won't be as deep and will get gradually shallower as it goes.

Drop in Your 4x4 and Line

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Put your line around the 4x4 and drop it in.

Bury the 4x4.

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Bury the 4x4 and fill the hole in. Pack it down as you go. It also helps to add water to get it nice and packed in.

Replace Your Divots

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Put your grass back!

Plan the A-Frame

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I've seen a few different ways to build the A-frame. This is what I did.
2x4x44" - 2 of these for the vertical pieces

2x4x48 - 1 for the base

4x4x5 - 2 for the middle spacers

4x4x10 - 1 for support between the vertical pieces

2x4x16 - 2 for the diagonal supports. - I actually don't know how long they are. I just cut them to where they'd fit.

1/2"x7" bolts - 2 for the varied heights.

Build That Sucker

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I used a ton of 2.5" wood screws.

Now You're Ready to Slackline

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Pick your height and start tightening. You'll have to adjust the A-Frame as you tighten. I've found that if it's leaning a bit backwards it works better.