12-14" pvc is the way to go, if you can find it.

@TrapperChris, I finally got my hand on some 10" pipe and tryed my hand at making one not so "fat" at the top. Its not bad but im not really happy with it. I will post a pic as soon as I can.

I have different size PVC beams made up that just slide into a stand. Can switch out three different beams depending on what I'm working on. Got the idea from somewhere, not sure now.

Bigger one is great for beaver




You can see the smaller ones in the background up against the wall. Have one that's roughly sized for coyotes, otter, coon. Smaller one that's great for rats, mink, etc.

I traced a fox board and a large coon board for the taper i wanted. Used a jigsaw and a flapdisc grinder some final sanding and good to go.

This is the beam I just amde out of the 10" pipe I got, not real happy with it but it will do I guess

Southern Secret. You won't know till you try it. I bet it'll work out fine for you. Fleshing and stretching your own hides on something you made is great.
I love putting up fur and get great satisfaction in doing it. I hope you do the same.
Show us some put up pics this year when you get the chance

Im going to give it a tray for sure, & Ill no doubt be posting put up pick all tho im still waiting on my building/fur shed to get dropped off