Jail Cell Built Inside Barn Protects Collectables

Lazy Man's Bird FeederIf jail cells can keep thieves in once they're arrested, Dave Nicholas figured they could also be used to keep thieves out. So he set out to learn how jail cell bars are made and built a cell to protect his collection of antique tools.

He built the 28 by 14-ft. enclosure inside a pole barn, based on jail cell plans he saw while working in western South Dakota and Wyoming. The bars are hollow pipes with solid bars inside that spin if someone attempts to cut them, Nicholas says.

He used 3/4-in. conduit with 1/2-in. rebar inside. He drilled holes in 2 by 6's between pole barn posts to slip the conduit through, and didn't attach the conduit at the top so they can spin. Nicholas even ran the bars in the ceiling for added security. He notes the walls can be insulated and finished normally, if desired. His final touch was a 980-lb. double vault door on the opening.

He admits he revels in doing things differently and on the cheap. Knowing his antiques are secure makes his cell creation even more valuable.

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