How to Build a Catapult

Step 2 Plan Out The Frame

As Jason and I walked the shop floor, trying to picture how to layout the frame, we came up with this:

• The base of the frame would be 3' x 8' and made out of 2X4's
• The frame would be shaped like an off-balance "A"
• The frame will be 6' tall

Lay out two of the 8' 2X4's on the floor, and space them 4' apart.

Cut two 3' sections of 2x4's on the miter saw and lay one of them on one end of the frame.
Lay the other 3' section about 2' in from the end of the 8' sections, this is so that when the arm comes forward, it doesn't throw the whole 'pult forward as well.

Cut the 4X4's to 6' in length, and stand them up so that they are on the inside of the frame and flush up the indented 2x4.

Cut one length of 4x4 to 3' and save it for later - this will be used as the cross-brace at the top.