
Introduction: Concealing Your Duck Boat with a DIY Scissor Blind Duck hunting from a boat offers incredible access to waterfowl, but effective concealment is crucial. A scissor blind provides excellent camouflage, allowing you to blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment. This guide walks you through building a simple, yet effective, scissor blind for your duck boat.
Materials You'll Need: 1" or 3/4" EMT conduit (length depends on boat size measure carefully!) EMT conduit bender (for desired angles) EMT conduit cutter or hacksaw Heavy-duty zip ties or metal clamps Drill and drill bits (matching the size of your rivets/bolts) Rivets or bolts with nuts and washers Camouflage netting or burlap (enough to cover the frame) Fasteners for attaching netting (hog rings, zip ties, or twine) Optional: Paint (camo colors) for the conduit frame Optional: Grass mats or natural vegetation for additional concealment
Step 1: Planning and Measuring: Start by carefully measuring your boat to determine the required length of conduit for the blind frame. Consider the height you want the blind to be and the desired angle of the "scissors." Sketch a rough design to visualize the frame's layout. Remember to account for any obstructions on your boat, such as consoles or seats.
Step 2: Bending the Conduit: Use the EMT bender to create the "scissor" sections. Typically, these are made from two pieces of conduit bent at matching angles that allow them to cross each other and create a pivoting point. Repeat this process to create several scissor sections, spacing them evenly along the length of your boat. Ensure all bends are consistent. If using 3/4" EMT consider adding a cross bar to the frame for added sturdiness.
Step 3: Assembling the Frame: Attach the scissor sections to your boat. You can do this by drilling holes in the conduit and using rivets or bolts to secure them to the boat's gunwales. Alternatively, you can use heavy-duty zip ties or metal clamps if you prefer a less permanent attachment. Make sure the scissor sections are positioned so they can open and close smoothly. If you are using clamps or zip ties, be sure to check their integrity throughout the hunting season.
Step 4: Adding Horizontal Supports (Optional but Recommended): For added stability, consider adding horizontal supports along the top and bottom of the scissor sections. These can also be made from EMT conduit and attached using rivets, bolts, or clamps. These supports will prevent the scissor sections from swaying excessively in the wind.
Step 5: Painting the Frame (Optional): If desired, paint the conduit frame with camouflage colors to further enhance concealment. This step is optional but recommended, especially if you are using shiny new conduit. Allow the paint to dry completely before proceeding.
Step 6: Attaching the Camouflage Netting or Burlap: Unroll the camouflage netting or burlap and begin attaching it to the frame. Use hog rings, zip ties, or twine to secure the material to the conduit. Start at the bottom and work your way up, overlapping the material slightly to ensure complete coverage. Be sure to leave enough slack in the material so that the scissor blind can be opened and closed without tearing the fabric.
Step 7: Adding Natural Vegetation (Optional): For the ultimate concealment, consider adding natural vegetation to the blind. Attach grass mats or branches to the netting using zip ties or twine. This will help your boat blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment. Adjust the amount and type of vegetation to match the specific location you are hunting in.
Step 8: Testing and Adjusting: Before heading out on a hunt, test the scissor blind by opening and closing it several times. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure smooth operation and complete concealment. Check all fasteners to ensure they are secure. Add additional camouflage or vegetation as needed.
Conclusion: Achieving Optimal Concealment Building a DIY scissor blind is a cost-effective way to enhance your duck hunting success. By following these steps, you can create a custom-fitted blind that provides excellent concealment, allowing you to blend seamlessly with your surroundings and increase your chances of bagging your limit. Remember to always prioritize safety and follow all applicable hunting regulations.
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