I just figured out recently that I have access to a welder, workshop tools, as well as a painting booth and supplies.

This is great news considering I really would like to build my own bumper. Problem is that I'm new to the world of welding and am trying to figure out where to start.

I don't want to spend lots of money on this project, but I'd like something that looks good as well. I'm trying to figure out what material and thickness the bumper should be made out of. It can be on the heavy side (front of the jeep is higher than the back right now anyway). And preferably cheaper metal. Any suggestions?

I'm also torn on what color to paint it. Matte black, black gloss, silver (same color as body), or a dark grey, or anything in between...Any thoughts?

2012 Jeep Wrangler Sport. Hard top/2.5 inch lift/ 35x12.50r18s. Silver in color

 

I use 6 X 6 X 3/16 steel square tubing for most bumper builds.

It's cheap, I pay about $10 a foot for it and usaully only need 6 feet for a JK bumper.

Here's my last one.


Starting the first cut.



Pieces fabbed up.


Finished and mountedwith Ballistic Fab D-Ring mounts



I then cut in for a winch.


All of this can be done with a cut-off wheel, a grinder, and a welder.

I use Rustoleum bed-liner in the spray cans for the finish coat. I like the texture the best.


Oh, this bumper weighed 55 lbs when finished. 1/4 inch steel would have brought it up to about 70 lbs.
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Wow! That looks really good. Never would have thought to use square tubing. That helps to cut down on the amount of welding I would have to do. I've drawn up a schematic on using flat plate of some kind. This is another option to seriously consider though.

 

I like it because it has that round finished edge.

here's a rear bumper I'm working on now.




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I used 3/16 Plate for mine. 1" Plate for the D-ring mounts.

 

I dig the simplicity! It gives it more of a rugged look. I hate the plastic stock bumpers. They ruin the look of the Jeep IMO.

 

I used 3/16 on mine.

 

So just 3/16 steel? Appreciate all of the info guys! I like the idea of the square tubing because it spares me and my new welding skills from messing up too much. But having 3/16 plate and the freedom to do any wild configuration I want would be cool to.

Guess this is why people buy bumpers premade. Less fuss!