Differences between Christopher Schwarz's workbench books

I have the second book, “The Workbench Design Book”. I chose it because it presents several workbenches, I think it’s eight, and explains the pros and cons of each. It also goes into modifications that you can make to existing benches. And, finally it is where to get the reasoning for the “Roubo” style bench. I have been very glad I got this book because it has a wealth of information and really explained many of the features in a way that a person can apply to their situation, rather than just “this is done like this because that’s the way it’s done.”

The first book, I do not have, but I think it only covers the design of two styles of benches. I goes into the most detail about these two styles of benches with diagrams and parts lists. But, I just felt the second book was something I would get more value from because I had already built my bench, and I am satisfied with my choice. If I did not yet have a bench I would opt for both books.

On a side note, I am also glad I bought it from Lee Valley, because they saved me $10 bucks and I am very happy to have found this company. They are really nice folks and a pleasure to do business with. I have no connection to Lee Valley or financial interest in the company, I just like to pass it on when I have a good experience.

I’ve got the first one and I really enjoyed it, although I’m not a big fan of the Schwarz. The first one will definitely guide you well to build the most popular benches. I’ve thumbed through the second one but haven’t purchased it.

-- My dad and I built a 65 chev pick up.I killed trannys in that thing for some reason-Hog

I would second Lee Valley. They currently have a free shipping sale for the 4th of July weekend. Shipping is free on any orders over $40 until July 11th. I would get the Anarchist’s Tool Chest while your shopping. From the description of the new book, it sounds like the second would be preferred if your limited to one book…

http://www.leevalley.com/US/wood/page.aspx?p=67610&cat=51&ap=1
http://www.leevalley.com/US/wood/page.aspx?p=58401&cat=1,46096,46109&ap=3
http://www.leevalley.com/US/wood/page.aspx?p=66542&cat=1,46096,46124,66542

-- We must guard our enthusiasm as we would our life - James Krenov

Al,
I’m surprised you weren’t attacked by screaming hoards of fan-boys after your comment. Personally besides the fact that a leg vise would be the last type I would want, the fanboyism of the Roubo turns me off to it. That said, I like his writing and the first book, I just get annoyed at his followers.

-- www.newageneanderthal.blogspot.com . @NANeanderthal on twitter

I must have “The Workbench Design Book” since it didn’t come with a CD. I like this one but I’ve not seen the other one.

-- Backer boards, stop blocks, build oversized, and never buy a hand plane--

Neandertal, I am not sure which is worse Schwarz or Cosman fan boys….. lol Fanboyism in general turns me off.

-- We must guard our enthusiasm as we would our life - James Krenov

I really like Christopher Schwarz and I have his book titled: “Workbenches – Design, Theory, Construction, and Use”.

My favorite workbench book is The Workbench Book by Scott Landis The reason I like this one is because he describes so many different types of benches.

There are lots of great workbenches, but I think it is important to get one that suits you and the type of work that you want to do.

Charlie :)

-- Adjustable Height Workbench Plans http://www.Jack-Bench.com

Me too Wayne,
Not sure which is worse but the Schwarz fan club is much larger.

-- www.newageneanderthal.blogspot.com . @NANeanderthal on twitter