The swing boat is a fairly easy project that is way more fun than it looks. As the name suggests it like a swing boat at a fair. Scouts sit in the middle while pulling themselves back and forth.
By following these steps, I have found it to be the easiest way to build the swing boat. Like everything in scouts, you are welcome to try you own way, but remember to always keep in safety mind.
Step 1: Start by building a model to scale, remember to keep in mind the size and number of poles you have in store. It is pointless to build a model for a 12m tall swing boat if the largest poles you have are only 6m tall. This helps to work out any problems that may occur and helps to test if the project will work. Build the model in the same order you plan to build the main project.
Step 2: Start by building two identical A frames. This can be done by marking off points using chalk and a tape measure. Remember to keep at least half a metre space above the sheer lasing to allow space for the legs to open wide enough and to allow for the lashing of the cross poles later. Remember to start the clove hitch of the square lashings below the poles to allow for a tighter hold.
Step 3: Once the A frames are complete, lean them on their sides and lash the crossbars in-between the gap above the sheer lashings and at the bottom of the feet. Lean the poles in at an angle of about 70 degrees, as this will allow the structure to balance itself.
Step 4: Once all the crossbars have been lashed on, pick the structure slightly off the ground in the front and lashing on the pole going the opposite way to the rest. While its still down, tie ropes to the end of the pole to allow for the scouts to pull themselves. Use rolling hitches, with a half hitch to take the pressure off the knot and to keep the rope from moving down the pole.
Step 5: Tie the four ropes that will hold the plank up with fishermen’s bends as they will hold better than a round turn and two half hitch, with all the movement that will be occurring. Also tie any guidelines that you wish to, while the project is still down.
Step 6: Raise the project, by either digging small hole by the feet and pulling it up with long ropes or if its smaller get two strong chaps to push it up from the sheers, while some guys hold the legs as it comes down. Remember to keep on the outside of the project to avoid getting hurt, if it may fall. Once up knock in the stakes around the legs at a 60-degree angle and mousse them to the poles. Also, tie down the guy lines.
Step 7: Tie the plank to the project by means of two scaffold hitches and tie them of with a bowline. It is important to make grooves in the plank so as to avoid the ropes from slipping out.
Points: A single pole can be used instead of the plank, which allows for a more exciting ride. You can also tie ropes to the plank/pole, which will allow other scouts to pull the scout/s on the project.
Time: Depending on the skill of your patrol/troop this project can take between 1 – 4 hours. Always allow a lot of time for a project you have not done before, as this is to allow for any unforeseen problems you may have.
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