Introduction: Easy PVC Chicken Feeder

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About: I'm a middle school science teacher going on 20 years in the classroom. I've taught 6th, 7th, and 8th graders. I'm constantly looking to improve my instruction and Instructables is one of the places I search…

Here is an easy to build, highly effective chicken feeder. It can be built to fit the needs of your chickens or the restrictions of your coop. This feeder is so easy to make, you may want to build a few! I used 3" PVC, but I'm sure a larger or smaller diameter would work just as well. I've seen other feeders that use PVC and require the purchase of additional diverters (which can add to the cost). This design uses angled cuts to get the perfect bend with zero waste.

Step 1: Materials

3 inch PVC (About 4 feet long) This initial section of PVC is referred to as the "stock" piece.
3 inch PVC cap
Compound Mitre Saw (or hand saw)
PVC cement
Tape Measure
Chickens
Chicken Feed
Drill (optional)

Step 2: Prototype

The first thing I did was make a prototype. I used 1" PVC because that's what I had laying around. I wanted a feeder that could be easily filled, had a small footprint in the coop, and wouldn't be "fowled" up by the scratching hens (spelling error intended). The picture shows the dimensions of the prototype. In the final version, I pretty much tripled all measurements and used 3 inch PVC. The prototype was assembled using hot glue and doesn't include a cap because it's kept inside for the baby chicks.

Step 3: The Top Section

This section will serve as the main reservoir for the feed. The top section can be cut to a length that works best for your coop. The longer this section, the more feed it will hold.

The top section is cut to a length of 39" with a 22.5 degree angle at the bottom.

Step 4: The Middle Section

Since the stock piece of PVC already has a 22.5 degree cut at the end, simply measure 8.5" from the longest side and make a mark. Cut a 45 degree angle at the 8.5" mark.

Step 5: The Bottom Section

Since the stock piece of PVC already has a 45 degree cut at the end, simply measure 5 inches up from the longest side and made a mark. Cut off the bottom section with a 22.5 degree angle cut.

After all three sections are cut, dry fit together.

Step 6: Glue It All Together

When using PVC cement, follow the warnings on the label. Glue the three sections together outside away from any flames. Once the glue cures, give the feeder a good rinse both inside and out to remove any dust.

Step 7: Finished Product

Finally, add some feed, place the cap on top, and mount where the chickens can feast. There are too many different ways to mount the feeder to explain. It all depends on where you plan to mount it.

A useful addition would be to add a window to help see the feed level. Any other design modifications you can think of are welcome! Thanks for viewing.