Starting new build, 12' x 8' EMT enclosure

[Shardak]

I have had a Netreturn Pro, with a couple different impact screens, for the last 2 years. I like it, but wanted to go larger, and wanted a screen that I can get perfectly flat.

Today I picked up the 1" EMT. I ordered the corner fittings from Carls. I paid too much for the fittings, tarps.com has the same items for 50% less than Carls (didnt see that till I placed the order)

I am going to purchase the new Par2Pro SQ screen as well. Not sure on what else I will need. At least blackout fabric, and possibly some kind of backstop netting.

I will post some pics along the way to help out anyone else considering a DIY build.


So far I have purchased:

- 14 sections of 1" EMT (Home Depot, $100)

- Fittings from carls place ($150...you can get the same from tarps.com for $75)
6 x F3
2 x F4 - 90°
4 x FC
2 x FL
2 x FT

- 50pcs 9" ball bungee's ($16 amazon)



Still need:
- screen (par2pro SQ)
- blackout fabric (no idea)
- netting (is it needed?)
- backstop behind screen (does it reduce bounce/noise, increase screen life?)

[Shardak]

What projector do you use?

Benq 1085ST

[Par2ProShane]

Awesome Job! looks amazing! If there's anything else you need for your set up please give us call.

[HeelMD]

I completed the frame today. I used a tube cutter to cut the EMT, was very simple.

what kind of tube cutter did you use? Also, any issues with the cut ends fitting into the corners and connectors? i am beginning to plan my project and planning to use EMT based on my reading on this site. Just a little worried about cutting tubing to size as I'm not super handy.

[Shardak]

what kind of tube cutter did you use? Also, any issues with the cut ends fitting into the corners and connectors? i am beginning to plan my project and planning to use EMT based on my reading on this site. Just a little worried about cutting tubing to size as I'm not super handy.

Any tube cutter that fits over the pipe will work. The exact one I got doesnt appear on the home depot site anymore, but it was this one by Husky:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/HUSKY-Tube-Cutter-Quick-Release-Open-Close-1-8-to-1-1-8-Extra-Cutter-Wheel-/400983595391

Looks like home depot might have a newer vesion now:

https://www.homedepot.com/p/Husky-Auto-Release-2-in-O-D-Tube-Cutter-TMC0002J/204284839

Tube cutters are very easy to use, you cannot mess it up. Much easier than a hacksaw, and will give a cleaner cut. Just dont over-tighten it. You get it snug, rotate it a few times around the pipe, then tighten a little bit more and rotate a few more times. Takes about 30 seconds to make each cut. Most of the cutting wheels will say they are only for copper, but it works fine for steel EMT. It might dull the blade after 50+ cuts, but you will not need to make that many cuts for your cage.

[captnkrusty]

Very nice build! I am considering building an enclosure and moving away from my net return also. How deep is your enclosure and about how far away from the screen are you hitting from?

Thanks for the help