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AR15.COM
12/23/2010 10:38:49 AM EDT
What's the best way to build a berm for a shooting range?  I know it needs to be more than just a pile of dirt.  My uncle built one with some sort of block in the middle.  I'd like to avoid spending a fortune on it.
12/23/2010 11:00:58 AM EDT
[#1]
we had some 1 3/4 plywood flooring left over when we built ours.  layered the wood about 12 sheets deep with dirt in between the layers.  also had a 5/8 piece of steel on the top at a 45 degree angle to deflect high shots back down in to the dirt.  not cost effective if you dont have the supplies already though.  dirt and tires might be your best bet
12/23/2010 11:43:35 AM EDT
[#2]
On mine, I went to the local train yard and talked to them about any old railroad ties. They had just recently replaced all of their old ties, and told me to take what I wanted. I then grabbed a ton (literally) and hauled them home.



I then placed treated 4x4 posts in the ground. I then stacked the ties against the posts, and used re-bar to secure them. I stacked the ties in a U shape, so that I would be shooting into the U.



I then went about a foot out from the back wall, and built another wall using 2x4's and 3/4 inch treated plywood. I then filled up the space between the two walls with small gravel. I then had several tons of dirt brought in, and filled up the rest of the U.



This project was a pain in the ass, and I think I lost a lot of friends in the building of it ("I don't care how much beer you give me! I ain't ever helping you again!" was heard many times, along with several colorful names), but it seems to work out well.
12/23/2010 4:34:52 PM EDT
[#3]
Get an NRA Range Manual.  It is THE authoritative source on range design and construction and describes the proper way to build a berm.
12/24/2010 4:07:34 AM EDT
[#4]
I thought that dirt was more effective in stopping a round than wood. As a kid, I used to shoot through trees all the time. The trees never seemed to be able to stop a rifle round. Even big trees.

If that's the case, why use wood in a berm?
12/24/2010 6:30:27 AM EDT
[#5]
Use 4x4's upright to keep stacked tractor, skidder eighteen wheelers tires etc.... upright. Place a couple, fill with dirt and pack,  rinse and repeat until desired height is reached. Backfill on backside with more dirt/gravel.
12/24/2010 7:25:49 AM EDT
[#6]
Be very carefull about burying tires. They  are considered a hazardous waste and you might have a hard time convincing the EPA otherwise.
12/24/2010 2:35:40 PM EDT
[#7]
Quoted:
Be very carefull about burying tires. They  are considered a hazardous waste and you might have a hard time convincing the EPA otherwise.


I'd be very careful about who I told anyways... as in don't tell anyone if you do...