Although I paid a couple of bucks for the log, this was a project that was basically free. I wish I would of thought
    about this when they trimmed our trees last year.

    I started just under 11 inch in diameter, 8 foot long log.






    I cut the log in half (my neighbor wanted a throwing log). I used an old standard bar from a garage sale (it was
    one of those three piece ones). I cut the standard bar to use for the handles and also for the weight loading pins.









    I found the center of gravity and marked out two 8 inch by 8 inch boxes. To smooth down the bark, I ran my belt
    sander over the log.









    Now this was the hardest part. Since I did not want to cut through the entire log, I tried to find the easiest way to
    dig the boxes out. I tried an axe, reciprocating saw, and an air hammer. I finally resorted to using my small chain
    saw to cut out small blocks and then used a hammer and chisel to cut them out. This took awhile.









    I dug down just under eight inches and then used my belt sander to dig out some more room for my hands.
    Although I drilled the handle holes small and had to pound them in, I used some waterproof, 2-ton epoxy to be
    sure down the road. I drilled the handles at half the diameter of the log. They are resting in over two inches of
    wood on each side. They feel very secure.








    I mounted the loading pins about six inches deep and used more waterproof epoxy. I drilled the hole 7/8 of an
    inch so I could pound the bars in. I did have a problem with a large knot when drilling but using the bubble level
    on my drill I was able to keep the hole pretty much straight.








    The log weighs about 125 pounds. I plan on putting some sealer on it after the epoxy sets up. I added 50 pounds
    on it and it held up very well!
HOW TO MAKE A
LIFTING LOG


Author & Designer:  Clay Johnson  
Profession: Historian  Location: Ohio
Interests: Strongman training, iron history, tinkering with new equipment