Purchase the correct length of 3/4-inch steep gas pipe to fit the homemade barbecue. Make sure the pipe is factory-threaded at both ends. Place a strip of insulation or duct tape along each side of the pipe and tighten the pipe horizontally in a vise (the tape will rest against the vise jaws and prevent scratching).
Clean both end threads using a steel brush. Use a small brush to apply threading compound around the thread on one end of the pipe. Screw on a steel end cap to the thread by hand. Tighten it in place using a pipe wrench.
Measure a series of marks in a straight line along the top of the pipe. The number of marks corresponds to the number of gas holes desired in the pipe. Rest the end of a center punch on each mark and tap the other end of the punch with a hammer. This creates small notches in the pipe so the holes can be more easily drilled.
Rest the tip of a 3/16-inch steel drill bit in each notch and drill holes through one side of the pipe. Place the tip of a reamer into each hole and turn it a couple of times to remove any small metal burrs.
Loosen the vise, remove the pipe and pull off the tape from the sides.