My combination workbench, assembly table, outfeed area is of a relatively simple design without a bunch of fancy joinery, primarily of 2” x 6” construction and screwed together with deck screws. The top consists of two layers of 3/4” plywood screwed together (no glue), and the work surface is a piece sheet of hardboard (that can be easily replaced when worn or damaged) that is held in place with double sided tape and a section of modified oak trim around the edges. The height is just beneath the top of my table saw (and a future upgraded table saw). The overall unit is 4 x 8 with a 30” x 30” drop down area that I use for my sander, portable router table, scroll saw (each of which stores in the workbench when not in use) and for other purposes. One side has shelving for handheld portable equipment and other items and I will be installing drawers on the other side for woodworking supplies, sandpaper, etc. The workbench is quite solid, sturdy and doesn t budge while in use.
The designs you have posted should work and if screwed together (as I did mine) you can always disassemble and rebuild in the future if your needs change. I m off to a meeting so have to be relatively short, but I m sure you will get additional feedback here.
- BattleRidge
I like the 4’ x 8’ bench. When located so all four sides are accessible, all sorts of projects can be handled. I had a 4×8 bench at one time when I was doing tools sharpening. The tools needed for sharpening were conveniently located on the bench within easy reach. Tools were needed to retooth, set and sharpen saw blades and that made the process flow smoothly. Now that I no longer sharpen tools, my bench has been down sized to match my current needs, which is model building.
