How to Create a Wooden Gun Rack with a Locking Mechanism
A wooden gun rack is an excellent way to store and display firearms securely. Adding a locking mechanism ensures safety and compliance with storage regulations. This guide will walk you through building a sturdy wooden gun rack with a built-in lock.
Materials and Tools Needed
Materials:
- Hardwood (oak, maple, or walnut recommended)
- Plywood (for the back panel)
- Wood screws
- Wood glue
- Hinges
- Barrel lock or cam lock
- Felt or foam padding
- Stain or paint (optional)
- Sandpaper (120- and 220-grit)
- Clear polyurethane (for finish)
Tools:
- Tape measure
- Table saw or circular saw
- Jigsaw
- Power drill
- Router (for grooves)
- Clamps
- Screwdriver
- Chisel
- Sanding block
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Design and Measurements
- Decide the number of firearms the rack will hold. A standard rack accommodates 4 to 6 rifles or shotguns.
- Measure each firearm’s length and width to determine the spacing between slots.
- Sketch a rough plan with dimensions. A typical wall-mounted rack is about 36 inches wide by 24 inches tall.
Step 2: Cutting the Wood
- Back Panel: Cut a plywood sheet to your desired dimensions (e.g., 36” x 24”). This will serve as the rack’s backboard.
- Side Panels: Cut two side pieces (e.g., 24” x 6”) from hardwood. These will hold the rack’s top and bottom sections.
- Gun Rest (Top Rail): Cut a 36” x 6” board and mark evenly spaced semicircles (2-3 inches in diameter) for resting gun barrels. Use a jigsaw to cut these curves.
- Base Rail: Cut a 36” x 4” board for the gunstocks to rest on. This ensures stability.
Step 3: Assembling the Rack
- Attach the top gun rest and bottom rail to the side panels using wood screws and wood glue.
- Secure the structure with clamps and let the glue dry for several hours.
- Sand all edges smooth to prevent splinters and give a polished look.
- Attach the back panel using screws for added stability.
Step 4: Adding a Locking Mechanism
Front Cover Panel
- Cut a hardwood panel (same width as the rack) to act as a front cover. This will swing open or slide to access firearms.
- Attach the panel with hinges on one side for a swing-open door or wooden tracks for a sliding door.
Installing a Barrel Lock
- Position the lock on the front cover panel and align it with the side panel.
- Use a chisel or router to create a recess for the lock mechanism.
- Drill a hole for the lock barrel and install it.
- Ensure the locking latch aligns with a strike plate or embedded slot in the side panel.
Alternative: Magnetic Lock
- If you prefer a hidden locking system, install a magnetic lock that releases only with a special key.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
- Apply stain or paint for a professional look.
- Add a protective polyurethane coat to enhance durability.
- Line the gun slots with felt or foam padding to prevent firearm scratches.
- Install mounting brackets or anchor points if wall-mounted.
Final Thoughts
Building a wooden gun rack with a locking mechanism ensures your firearms are both organized and secured. This project is ideal for woodworkers of intermediate skill level and can be customized to match your space and needs.
For more woodworking projects and detailed plans, check out Teds Woodworking Course for expert guidance!