New Bench

[DocAitch]

I am in the process of rebuilding my loading area and moving it to the basement. I was previously in an alcove on the second floor, but I work weird hours and my wife becomes perturbed when I try to reload at 0200.
I just completed my bench (Third Generation) and it is 30" high x24 inches deep x70 inches long. I am using a system of step plugs(masonite on 3/4 inch plywood-the masonite cut with 2 3/4" hole saw and the plywood with a 2 1/2" hole saw) that are replaceable in the bench top to fasten down my presses and such which are mounted on various sized blocks 2x4", 2x6" etc. I even have a small band saw and drill press mounted on blocks. The holes allow 4 point mounting with 4" C clamps in various positions on the bench. If I just need a flat surface for disassembling a fire arm, I replace the plugs and the small parts don't fall through.
Here is the bench with the plugs in place. In the background to the left is my "Gen II" bench which is taller and wider (about 40" tall x 30 " deep) and which is more suitable for heavy work such as resizing cases which I do standing.


Here is a shot of the underside of my "Gen II" bench (the Gen III is similar but lighter construction) . I find that cheap 2x4"s joined along one edge with glue and screws for the legs is much easier to work with for this construction, is probably stronger, and has a bigger foot print on the floor than a 4x4". I also am a strong proponent of triangular braces for rigid construction. The 3/4" plywood and 3/16"masonite top is over hanging the frame by 1 1/2" (the width of a 2x4"). this gives good purchase for the C clamps.


Here is the bench with some Lee Equipment mounted- the powder measure is mounted on a short piece of 2x4" and the press is on a piece of 2x6"


You can see the plugs here on the right


I still have to do the shelves and storage area and add some electrical circuits for better lighting and power.
Regards, DocAitch

[mikld]

Nice idea.

[texnmidwest]

Great set up, Doc!!! Very timely as well. I am in the process of setting up my bench using a small computer desk as a base. Found that the top was not sturdy enough so with your permission, sir, I would like to borrow your brilliance and make a nice table!

Thanks for posting these pics!

[SwedeSteve]

Thanks for the ideas !!

[MLN1963]

I can't see the pictures?

[DocAitch]

Texnmidwest,
Thank you for the complement, feel free to use these ideas to your heart's content.
DocAitch

[DocAitch]

I have been carting stuff down stairs for a couple of days and the bench is getting lost under stuff. My previous bench was only 36" wide and I had a lot of stuff piled on it ,under it, beside it and in back of my chair.
With 105" of bench (Gen II p+Gen III) and double shelves the whole length plus a pegboard backing, I find that I am still hanging stuff from the joists.
It is still incredibly easier to work at this space than in the old one upstairs.
I still have to work on the lighting, but it is pretty good right now if I duck under the cord of the work light


DocAitch

[blueice]

Nice job, Doc....You got to love the peg board...

Let us know when you are going to have a reloading party...

[Ninja Piper]

I love the idea of the removable plugs! I am in the process of finishing my basement and will be using a "cubicle" desk that I acquired from my brother-in-laws office after they went under. I might use the plug idea there...