Joining 2x4 and 4x4

Question

really sorry for a posting a noob question (I did try to specifically see if this was answered somewhere else and couldn't see it).

Anyway, I'm doing a simple home DIY project to build a squat rack in my garage gym. It will be mostly made from 2x4 except the main uprights taking the weight will be 4x4. I've seen a design that I like elsewhere (but they used ONLY 2x4).

My problem is, I'm not sure how to join two specific pieces of the 2x4 to the 4x4. I've included a really basic drawing (again sorry for how basic this is) which shows the set up as if you're looking from the side. The Black lines are 4x4 timber posts and the red and blue are 2x4. I'm trying to figure out how to join the top and bottom red 2x4 pieces to the 4x4 upright and the (blue) 2x4 that will be fixed to the wall. I don't want to (more like can't) screw into the end grain of the 2x4 (to be honest don't have screws long enough to get through the 4x4 first!) and I don't own a pocket hole jig.

FYI, there will also be two 2x4s placed side on (like the one in the middle) at the top and bottom of the frame for extra stability, but I need the inside bits to attach the angled braces to.

Any ideas? One thought is to not do the inside pieces at top and bottom, do away with the top angled brace and screw the bottom angled brace directly into the concrete garage floor.

Answer 1

can I ask why the choice of wood? Is the reason for the 4x4's and the 2x4's because that is what you have on hand or you like the look of the 4x4's in the front, or is it something entirely different? The reason I am asking is there are many ways you could do this. First if you've never built a squat rack, then your ready to build one, don't let any one discourage you on this.

Most of what your trying to do only requires a hand saw and a combination or speed square tape measure and a pencil. You need good joint construction for this type of project, and one of the most effective and simple joint types in basic carpentry you can make is a full and half lap joint. There are many other stronger joints designed for load bearing but for what you are trying to do these should work well.

If you can use 2-2x4's in place of the 4x4 then you can nail them together one shorter in length gives you essentially a pre-made half lap joint. screw them, best would be to through bolt them with Carriage bolts nuts and washers.

Many people have forgotten how easy and quick it can be to cut lumber with a hand saw you can almost find them for practically no cost at a local goodwill thrift store. Another great tool is a wood chisel. You can make one cut and hit your end grain with the chisel and you have your half lap having a chisel cuts down on the amount of saw cuts required . Take a look at window construction in carpentry both the Header and the sill are reinforced with an additional 2x4 the result is a half lap!

When you go through the process you'll be proud of your accomplishment. If you get stumped just reach out on this site, I'm sure there is someone who will want to help. It sounds like a fun project, Have Fun and share a completed photo if you can!