Hi Everyone,
Been reading on the forum for a while, and this year decided to try to build my own blind. Its a 5' X 8' blind that's 6'6" in front and 6'3" in back. I built it big so that me and my father (two Texas sized guys) can hunt in it when he comes down to East Texas to visit
Features I have put in so far:
1. Painted inside and out - brown on inside to help shield the view
2. Windows on all walls with side windows offset to front
2. Outside wood windows that overlap to seal out water - inside deerview windows
3. Used screw in tool holders from HF for gun rests
4. Carpeted shelves below windows
5. Carpet on floor for noise
6. Screws above door to use as coat hooks
7. 6' door to allow easy access
8. 2x4 floor joists on 12' centers - very very solid
9. Used 3/4 plywood for floors and 1/2 for walls
10. Battery puck lights on ceiling for light if needed
Pics are below
Couple of things I would offer to someone else trying to build a blind the first time
1. Think a lot about what you want ahead of time and draw everything out - sure helped me out a lot
2. 5' deep helps bigger guys a lot have a little extra room but 8' is sure a big blind
3. I used 2x4's for framing and I should have cut them to 2x2 - the thing weighs a ton.
4. Decide on windows ahead of time and you wont pay for both like I did - a little overkill
5. Measure and order your deerview windows before you cut and frame the holes - you wont have to buy custom because your framing is 1 inch off
6. Over-engineering costs money but it sure feels solid and secure when its done
7. Dont start building a blind in August in your garage - you'll only work on it a hour or two a weekend and wont get it done until the first week of October
I still have to add some shelves above the windows and get some good office chairs.
Hope you guys like it.