Making your own equipment can save a lot of money and be very rewarding. However, It is only fair to mention some of the cautions. Always ask yourself the following, before you start a project.
1. WILL IT BE SAFE? Let me repeat that...WILL IT BE SAFE? This is by far the most important caution. If you can't make it safely, don't even try. It's not worth an injury, or your life, to save any amount of money.
2. Can I make it cheaper than I can buy it? Most of the time, I make things to save money. It is discouraging if I finish a project and then realize it cost more than purchasing one.
3. Will it work better than one I could buy? It is hard, but not always impossible, to make something better than the original.
4. Do I have the expertise to do all the work myself? Most of my projects don't involve a lot of wood or metal work. I don't have the expertise, or tools, necessary for most advanced projects. Unless you do, see the next caution.
5. If I am going to hire the work done, am I 100% certain it will work? I have only paid for one welding project. It worked out fine, but I have decided against doing 100s of other projects. Unless you have a good friend that does metal or wood work, be very cautious about paying for a job. If it doesn't work, you still pay. It is unlikely you will find a welder or wood worker, that isn't a good friend, who will tweak or fix a botched design without charging more. Ask yourself again, am I 100% certain it will work? Think it over for a few weeks and then ask your self the same question.
6. Do I want to compare my lifts to others? Homemade equipment often makes comparisons difficult. With thick bar stuff, even slight differences in diameter can make a huge difference. The type of material used can also make a huge difference. While you can get an excellent workout, comparisons are often difficult.
7. Can I afford to buy the original? If you can but want to spend the money on something else, is it something that is more important than the equipment? It's tough, but not impossible, to beat the original.
8. Again, will it be safe?
I hope to add to this list, over time. I have saved a lot of money making equipment, but I still prefer to take a cautious, and safe, approach.