For many hunters, the thrill of the pursuit is only part of the overall experience. Successfully harvesting a deer is a rewarding and memorable experience, but the work doesn’t stop there. Once the deer is down, transporting the animal back to your vehicle or camp is often a challenging and laborious task. An efficient, cost-effective, and convenient method for transporting the harvest is needed, and that’s where the homemade deer sled comes in.
In this blog post, we will cover every aspect of creating a homemade deer sled, from the materials you’ll need to construct it, to the detailed steps for assembling and using your sled to easily transport your deer. Let’s get started on your DIY deer sled journey!
Benefits of a Homemade Deer Sled
Before diving into the construction process, let’s explore some benefits of a homemade deer sled:
- Cost-effective: Purchasing a commercially available deer sled can be quite expensive. A homemade version offers a more affordable alternative without sacrificing functionality.
- Customizable: With a DIY deer sled, you have the freedom to design and create a sled that best suits your specific hunting conditions and requirements.
- Environmentally friendly: Using a deer sled minimizes the impact on the surrounding environment compared to dragging or carrying the deer through the woods, which can damage plants and cause soil erosion.
- Reduced physical strain: Dragging a deer through the woods can be an exhausting and sometimes dangerous task, particularly over uneven or slippery terrain. A homemade deer sled simplifies and eases the transportation process, reducing the risk of injury.
Materials and Tools Needed
To create your deer sled, you’ll need the following materials and tools:
- 1 sheet of heavy-duty plastic (ideally 8-10 mm thick, and approximately 4’x6′ in size)
- 2 PVC pipes, each 6 feet long and 1-inch in diameter (or poles of a suitable material, such as wood or aluminum)
- 2 PVC pipe end caps (1-inch size)
- High-strength duct tape
- Rope (approximately 25 feet)
- Scissors or heavy-duty shears
- Hole punch or drill with a 3/8-inch (or 1 cm) drill bit
- Measuring tape
- Marker (optional)
Creating Your Deer Sled Frame
Step 1: Cut the PVC Pipes or Poles
Begin by using your scissors or shears to cut the PVC pipes or poles to the desired length. The length should be around 6 feet or long enough to create a frame structure that extends slightly longer than the plastic sheet. Place a pipe end cap over each end of the PVC pipes to provide a finished appearance and protect the pipe edges.
Step 2: Prepare the Plastic Sheet
Prior to attaching the PVC pipes or poles to the plastic sheet, ensure the sheet is big enough to fit your deer comfortably. Adjust the dimensions as necessary to accommodate your deer’s size. It’s advisable to round the corners of the sheet to prevent snagging during transport. Then, use your duct tape to reinforce the edges to prevent tearing. A double layer of duct tape should suffice. If desired, use a marker to draw a small dot at the midpoint of each edge.
Step 3: Attach the PVC Poles to the Plastic Sheet
Position one pole at the midpoint of one long edge of the plastic sheet. Fold approximately 6 inches of the plastic over the pole, encasing it within the sheet. Ensure the fold is centered, with equal portions of the plastic sheet hanging over each side of the pole. Secure the fold in place with duct tape. Repeat the process with the second pole on the opposite long edge of the plastic sheet.
Creating Holes and Attaching the Rope
Step 4: Creating Holes in the Plastic Sheet
With your hole punch or drill, create holes for the rope at approximately 2-inch intervals along the short edge of the plastic sheet. The holes should be no more than 1 cm in diameter and should be positioned at least 1 inch (or 2 cm) from the edge. Repeat the process on the opposing short edge of the sheet.
Step 5: Attaching the Rope
Cut the rope into two equal pieces, then thread each piece through the holes, weaving it in and out along the short sides of the plastic sheet. Ensure you leave sufficient rope at each end for securing and pulling the sled.
Using Your Homemade Deer Sled
To use your deer sled, simply place your harvested deer onto the center of the plastic sheet and pull the sled by holding the two rope ends together. The smoother and more rigid plastic material will glide with ease over various terrain types, enabling you to transport your deer effortlessly and efficiently.
Maintenance and Storage
Maintaining and storing your homemade deer sled is simple. After each use, be sure to clean the sled to remove any blood or debris. If necessary, replace any damaged or worn duct tape on the edges or around the PVC pipe attachments. When not in use, simply roll up the sled and store in a cool, dry place, ensuring it is protected from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures as these can degrade the plastic material over time.
Final Thoughts
Creating a homemade deer sled is not only an economical solution to a common hunting challenge, but it also offers a customizable and environmentally friendly way to transport your harvest with ease. By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to create a durable and effective deer sled that will enhance your overall hunting experience for many seasons to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the dimensions of a homemade deer sled?
The dimensions of a homemade deer sled can vary depending on the materials used and the size of the deer. Generally, it should be at least 4 feet in length and 2-3 feet in width to accommodate an average-sized deer.
What is the easiest way to drag a deer out of the woods?
The easiest way to drag a deer out of the woods is to use a deer sled or a cart, as it helps in distributing the weight of the deer evenly and reduces resistance. This can make it much easier to pull the deer over rough or uneven terrain.
Is a deer cart or sled better?
Both deer carts and sleds have their advantages and disadvantages. A deer cart is more suitable for even and solid terrain, as it has wheels that make transportation easier. On the other hand, a sled is a better option for snow-covered or wet terrain, as it glides smoothly over the surface. The best option depends on the terrain and personal preferences.
How do you make a deer dragging rope?
To make a deer dragging rope, you will need a sturdy rope, approximately 20 feet in length. You can tie a slip knot around the deer’s neck or antlers, ensuring it is secure. Then, attach a handle or grip at the other end of the rope to make it comfortable to hold while dragging the deer.
What materials can be used for a homemade deer sled?
Common materials used for making a homemade deer sled include heavy-duty plastic sheets, PVC pipes, tarps, and plywood. It is essential to choose materials that are durable, lightweight, and water-resistant to ensure easy dragging and longevity of the sled.
How do you attach the deer to the sled?
You can attach the deer to the sled by securing it with ropes, straps or bungee cords. Ensure that the deer is centered and well-balanced on the sled to prevent it from tipping over while being dragged through the woods.
Can a homemade deer sled be used to transport other game animals as well?
Yes, a homemade deer sled can also be used to transport other game animals, such as elk or moose. Just ensure that the size and capacity of the sled are adequate to carry the weight and size of the animal.
How can you make the homemade deer sled easier to pull?
To make the homemade deer sled easier to pull, you can make use of a harness or shoulder strap to distribute the weight more evenly across your body. Additionally, attaching a rope or towline to the sled will allow for better control and leverage while dragging it through the woods.
Can a homemade deer sled be used on various terrains?
A homemade deer sled can be used on various terrains, including grass, snow, and uneven ground. However, the sled’s performance may vary depending on the material used and the design of the sled. It is recommended to choose a material that can withstand the type of terrain you typically hunt in.
Is a homemade deer sled easy to store and transport?
Yes, a homemade deer sled can be quite easy to store and transport. Most homemade deer sleds can be rolled up or broken down into smaller pieces, which make them convenient to store in a vehicle while heading to and from the hunting area.
I've learned a lot along the way and I'm always eager to share my experiences with others. I firmly believe in the importance of ethical hunting practices and and sustainable use of our natural resources, and I do my best to promote these principles in all of my adventures. Hunting is more than just a hobby for me, it's a way of life.
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