The Ultimate DIY: Build Your Own Cop Gear Rack!

The Ultimate DIY: Build Your Own Cop Gear Rack!

Are you tired of having gear scattered all over your car or garage? Is your lack of organization causing you to lose time and patience? Fear not, for the ultimate DIY project is here to save the day – build your own cop gear rack! Not only will it keep your gear organized, but it’ll also give you bragging rights to all your comrades-in-arms. Trust me; nothing beats the pride of building something yourself, and what’s better than functional cop gear?

Planning Ahead Saves Time on D-Day

Building a cop gear rack is not rocket science, but it does require some planning. Spending a little time upfront can save you a lot of heartache down the road. Here are some things you should consider before you pick up that first hammer:

Think about the size:

Before you start, ask yourself, “how much gear do I have?” As cliché as it might seem, “measure twice, cut once,” is vital in this project. Bring out your tape measure and start measuring your gear – jackets, belts, hats, gloves, boots, and the like.

Pro-tip: If you have a newer vehicle, check the manufacturer’s website for the dimensions of the trunk or cargo space – that’s where most of the magic will happen.

Finalize the design:

Not everyone needs an elaborate cop gear rack – some people are happy with a simple one that gets the job done. In contrast, others value form over function. Whichever category you fall under (we won’t judge), scour the internet for designs that match your preference for inspiration.

Pro-tip: Don’t be afraid to add your touch to the design. You’re building this for your gear, after all!

Materials:

The materials you use will depend on your budget, the size of the cop gear rack, and the design you settle on. The most commonly used materials include:

• PVC pipes – best for a lightweight, portable option
• Metal pipes – ideal for a sturdy, durable option
• Wood – perfect for anyone going for a rustic vibe

Pro-tip: Regardless of the style and material you choose, make sure it’s ergonomically sound – that is, easy to load and unload your gear.

DIY Mode: Building the Cop Gear Rack

Now that you’re well-armed with a plan, let’s get building! Here is how to build a cop gear rack in simple and easy-to-understand steps.

Step 1: Gather the materials:

Before you start, make sure you have all your materials ready. It’s essential, especially if you’re using pipes, to get the correct dimensions for a seamless project.

Step 2: Cut the pipes to size:

Use a saw to cut the pipes down to the size you had in mind. Be careful not to cut yourself or other things you didn’t intend to.

Step 3: Use connective pieces:

If you’re going for the PVC or metal option, you’ll need connective pieces like elbows, tees, and cross sections to join the pipes as you desire.

Pro-tip: Make sure you have bought the right type and number of connective pieces to avoid setbacks.

Step 4: Assemble the rack:

Connect the pipes and connective pieces as per your design – it’s now starting to look like a gear rack! Connect the bottom part first, ensuring it’s level, then attach the vertical sections. Add hooks or clips for hanging gear where necessary.

Step 5: Sand and paint:

If you’re using wood, sand down the rough edges and apply a coat of paint, stain, or varnish for a smooth finish.

And voila! You’ve built your own cop gear rack!

Pro-tip: Test the rack for sturdiness and adjust as necessary.

How to Organize Your Gear in the Cop Gear Rack

Building your cop gear rack is half the battle won – you’ll also need to organize your gear to minimize time-wasting when you need it. Here are some tips to keeping things neat and tidy:

• Hang the bigger items at the bottom, e.g., jackets, boots, and helmets, to act as an anchor.
• Hang smaller items on top, e.g., gloves, hats, and clips.
• Group similar gear items together – this minimizes the time spent looking for things when you’re in a rush.
• Designate slots for frequently used items – this will come in handy when you’re in a rush.
• Keep a first aid kit handy, plus any tools you may need for quick fixes.

The Benefits of Building Your Cop Gear Rack

Building an effective cop gear rack comes with several advantages – let’s dive into them now!

Cost-effective:

Building your cop gear rack is cheaper than purchasing one from a store. You get to choose the material you wish to use, meaning you can adjust for cost and quality.

Customizability:

There is no limit to the customizations you can make when building your cop gear rack. You get to pick the design, style, and size, which is not always the case with store-bought options.

Pro-tip: The fact that you built something from scratch adds a personal touch to your gear.

Organization:

A well-organized gear rack minimizes the time you spend searching for your gear, which is especially great when you’re in a hurry.

Storage:

The gear rack’s upright design allows for efficient use of storage space, which is beneficial if you don’t have any extra space to spare.

Conclusion

Building a cop gear rack is a fun, DIY project that pays off in the long run. You’ll enjoy the customizability, organization, and cost-effectiveness that results from a successful project. Before you get started, make sure to plan properly, gather the right materials, and measure your gear correctly. Once you’ve completed the cop gear rack, organize your gear for effective usage, and breathe a sigh of relief the next time you’re called to action.

And remember, with the right tools and a good sense of humor, anything is achievable!

References:

• How to Build a Garage Storage System, by The Family Handy Man
• Easy DIY Foyer Gear Wall Tutorial, by Bitterroot DIY
• DIY Wall Locker with Mirror and Chalkboard, by The Handyman’s Daughter.