View Full Version : Reloading benches ~ Homemade options?
Hello Gents,
I've been bitten by the bug and plan to acquire a bench or attempt to build one. I have a limited area to work with, my mud room is 150x50, ideally make a bench 40-42" wide, maybe 24" deep, thick top to drill and mount goodies, press,etc. also wouldn't hurt to make a drawer or rear shelf somehow, if not just buy the wall mounted containers on the cheaper or some type of organizer system. Thoughts/Ideas? Oh and it'd be sweet to have a foot rest recessed sort of half the depth of the top, like a drafting table almost.
I could not find a solid reloading bench in kit form. I built my reloading bench out of 2"x6" boards and 3/4" plywood. I doubled up the 2"x6"s for legs and left notches to support the bench top and lower shelf. I assembled it with deck screws and construction adhesive. You can add steel under the workbench top to strengthen the area where the bolts securing the reloading equipment pass through.
Search around the net for reloading bench plans.Plus, Almost every site with a reloading forum has a "pictures of your reloading bench" thread too. You'll find tons of ideas out there.
Cool deal will do man, I appreciate it!
Here's one site.
http://www.free-diy-plans.com/plans-reloading-bench.html#.UVYPdleuq3M
When we bought our current house it had a sewing room set-up in a spare bedroom. Modular cabinets, bench, and a return plus other built in /modular cabinets (not shown). It's solidly attached to the wall, so all I did was cut and seal a 8'x21.5"x3/4" plywood top for strength and added surface area, and screw it down. Plus some peg-board. Sewing room became gun room. :)
I'm sure she kept it a bit neater.
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y141/shootist87122/Bench0313a.jpg
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y141/shootist87122/DSC02394.jpg
Sweet, I can't see the pics i'm at work they're blocked but I'll scope them later when I get home!
I built my bench for about $50. 2x4s and 3/4" composite/particle board top. All connections glued and screwed, the whole bench is bolted to the wall. Solid!
http://i.imgur.com/Ks7WR9X.jpg
Ready.Fire.Aim
03-29-13, 19:06
With those dimensions I would purchase a half sheet of 3/4 plywood, AC grade and cut in half. Glue the two sheets together and the 1.5" plywood top will be very stable. Make legs from 2x6 and it won't move, especially with a lower shelf loaded down with ammo. I suggest Fir 2x6 if you want legs to look nice
I have made two work benches like this. My latest fancy in the house reloading bench interior framing construction is exactly like this.
An inexpensive top on the plywood is brown hardboard. My work bench in my barn has a hard board top and held up for 15+ years Of abuse and solvent spills. I use a raised corner molding to make a nice working edge. Hardboard is lightly glued down.
Laminate is also an inexpensive top if you DYI. I think it is easy to work with and built my wife a laminated craft work table/ desk and laminated the top.
feel free to PM if you have questions or need photos of a workbench like this.
Have fun
RFA
Nice, thats a monster press man what is that? Anyone have any experience with Lyman presses by chance?
My bench is 24" x 72" 1.5" thick maple "butcher Block" laminate on a steel frame bolted to a concrete floor with anchors. IIRC I bought the bench from Grainger. In the overall scheme of things it was not that expensive and I have been using it for the past twenty years. I finished it with linseed oil.
It has a 50# 5" vise on one end and three presses at the other end (Dillon 1050, Foster Coax and RCBS Pro2000). Next to the vice is a bolt pattern where I can mount various other reloading tools as needed. These tools are mounted on hard maple boards with a common bolt pattern for the bench.
My bench is built off this design:
http://www.rifleshootermag.com/2007/02/23/gun-loading-bench-strength/
Structure is the same on mine, however I opted out of the inserts as I don't need or want them. As you might imagine, it is quite sturdy. Likely overbuilt, but that is how I roll.
I don't have any pics of my setup but I'd be happy to snap one or two if anyone is interested.
ICANHITHIMMAN
03-29-13, 19:49
**** A BENCH BRO YO NEED A WHOLE ROOM!
I mean my space is only 150x50" really :eek:
I prefer a building for reloading with a bench in it
http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu290/rgerh913/Posted/Reloadingshed001.jpg
It lets me store powder primers out of the house and gives me a place to go in the evening and reload.
http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu290/rgerh913/Posted/001-1.jpg
When we bought our current house it had a sewing room set-up in a spare bedroom. Modular cabinets, bench, and a return plus other built in /modular cabinets (not shown). It's solidly attached to the wall, so all I did was cut and seal a 8'x21.5"x3/4" plywood top for strength and added surface area, and screw it down. Plus some peg-board. Sewing room became gun room. :)
I'm sure she kept it a bit neater.
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y141/shootist87122/Bench0313a.jpg
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y141/shootist87122/DSC02394.jpg
Sweet setup!
OkieOutlaw
03-30-13, 14:08
Isn't it amazing the amount of extraneous stuff that can accumulate on a mans reloading bench? I usually have to clean and sort stuff out for a good 20 minutes before I can even begin to start a project. Old ladies eh? Or maybe just bench fairies?:nono:
ICANHITHIMMAN
03-30-13, 16:29
Isn't it amazing the amount of extraneous stuff that can accumulate on a mans reloading bench? I usually have to clean and sort stuff out for a good 20 minutes before I can even begin to start a project. Old ladies eh? Or maybe just bench fairies?:nono:
Lol i have not posted a pic of mine for the very reason.
I have an unfinished garage, and was wondering if it would be ok to build my reloading bench out there since there is not temp control for storing powders and what not. I live in an area where it can get quite cold in the winter, as well as quite warm in the summer. Will that harm my powder and primers?
What I have learned in my bench building journey of three benches.
1. 30" X 8' X elbow +2": Originally set up for 4 progressive shotgun loaders. Currently used for gun cleaning/maintenance and 1911 building now. Tried to use it for metallic reloading but the frame/edge made press mounting difficult. A single sheet of 3/4" top was used with a 1/4" steel plate backer on the underside.
Drawbacks: Ht for use with progressives was good. As a workbench it is about 2-3" to high for me. I know, trimm the legs. Can never find time to empty the bench and (1) Trim the legs and (2) Put finish on the legs and bottom shelf.
2. 30" X 60" X 33-34". When I upgraded to a Spolar hydrolic press for all shotgun gauges, I hit the easy button and ordered an Edsel laminated maple bench with metal frame and bench from Grainger on a company account for a substantial discount. Hindsight. Should have ordered the bench with the 27-34" adjustable legs. Hindsight is 15/15 at times.
3. 30" x 8' x 30". Used two pieces of 3/4 ply 30" x 8' and glued and drywall screwed them together every 6". I used a 2x4 frame with 4x4 legs overhung the edge of the top 8" to allow mounting presses without having to worry about missing the tabletop frame. To give the veniered pltwood top a finished appearance I glued-n-screwed a piece of oak 1 x 2 around the edge with mitered corners to hide the laminated top. I built one 18" deep shelf about 8-10" off the floor with the leg frame. It needs one more. I preassembled, rounded all edges with a 3/8" router, dis-assembled, three coats of Verithane matt, (30% cut, 15% for coats 2&3) with a 1/4" nap. Light sanding with 320 between coats.
Bench height, bench height, bench height. Decide if you are going to sit or stand while reloading. Dedicate a chair and figure out with a press what height you need it at before building.
Rebated frame from edge so you can mount presses where you want them without worrying about the frame beneath.
Plenty of shelving underneath for dies, case trimmers, annealer. My big Dillon tumbler.... forgetabout it. Brass and bullets on a seperate gorilla shelf.
Glue and screw. Make a design that allows to mount a 2x6-8 on the back to easily attach to studs in the wall due to the rebated support frame on the front edge.
Tops. 2 pieces of 3/4" ply glued together and drywall screwed every 6" is sufficient. 30" depth is more than sufficient, any deeper and you really have to reach. 24" is fine without any clutter on bench. Dies, manuals, ect need their own place.
If shipping not going to kill you, catch a 30" X 5, 6, 8' laminated maple butcher block top from Grizzley Tool when they are on sale. If I make another, I'd pick one up in WA on my way through.
Seal the top. I don't care for the new particle board. If I went that route I'd put white formica on it. I used the venieer 3/4 ply on top and wrapped the edge with. 1x2 Oak. Had to make a cut out on the edge to mount the 550 but now they have the hard mount.
Apply finish before you start using. It'll never get done once you start using the bench and it keeps coffee , powder and residue stains out of the wood and brass chips don 't chew it up so bad.
If youu want pics, pm me with your email addy. Can't figure out picture posting and mine are just as cluttered as everyone elses. Greg
Double your original length if you can and I wouldnt go anywhere less than 30" deep. Most countertop is 30"(give or take) deep to give you an idea of how deep you are talking.
If you only build 40" wide, you WILL be building a second bench in short order. The bench we built at my dads house was ~60" and its PACKED FULL and we wished we had built it another foot or so(and there was room to do it too).
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v324/rjacobs1/IMAG0259.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v324/rjacobs1/IMAG0260.jpg
We have installed a center support for those lower shelves since they were bending pretty good once all loaded up. They just didnt have enough girth to hold the load.
Great info and pics, I need a garage again for sure. I actually found a bench/table that's like 40" tall and 24x48" in my shed over the weekend, 3/4" top, legs are only 2x2s but it'll work for the time being I think. Just need to shop for some pegboard attachments and/or shelves to go on the wall above it and I'm set to start off I think. In regard to powder and it's storage, what is considered to be ideal; cool and dry place I'm guessing? Obvious assumption would be what's on the jar and out of direct heat and away from open flames!
You can never have too much space or bench.
http://i269.photobucket.com/albums/jj42/GLShooter/RELOADING%20ROOM/DSC02742.jpg
http://i269.photobucket.com/albums/jj42/GLShooter/RELOADING%20ROOM/DSC02757.jpg
Greg
Small benches will work but should be mounted to the wall for stability. A large heavy bench has its weight to do that job but also should be mounted to the wall if possible. I put some loaded ammo boxes on the bench to weigh it down...
If you only build 40" wide, you WILL be building a second bench in short order. The bench we built at my dads house was ~60" and its PACKED FULL and we wished we had built it another foot or so(and there was room to do it too).
+1
I started reloading at the beginning of last year and built a 48" wide bench. I'm already working on a 2nd one because I need some more room to permanently mount my vise, case trimmer, etc.
I like keeping my bench relatively small. More surface equals more clutter. I could have a bench a MILE long and still not have a clear spot to set something down on. :D
John Hearne
04-05-13, 12:25
I made my bench using plans from hammerzone.com. My bench is 48" wide which I've found adequate for reloading - I perform my brass cleanup somewhere else. The hutch was pretty straight forward and was done with a single sheet of plywood. Plans link: http://www.hammerzone.com/archives/workshop/bench/below20xl.html
My current setup:
http://thecurmudgeon.freeservers.com/fa_bench_2013.jpg
I need that light rig. :)
morpheus6d9
04-05-13, 17:14
My uncle built my reloading bench the draws are finished niw though
http://i49.tinypic.com/25gfafr.jpg
Sent from my EVO using Tapatalk 2
Gahunter12
04-05-13, 21:55
Here's my first bench I built. I have since built another just for cleaning guns, and gun smithing. I added peg board, and a top to hang a 6ft shop light.
http://i1060.photobucket.com/albums/t457/gahunter12/16CB18A4-D6A1-4AFB-8AD0-A50EBF031B14-7052-000011139F92C8F8.jpg
http://i1060.photobucket.com/albums/t457/gahunter12/0BC7FBC1-8C91-4BF9-B30E-604AAA3EEEBF-7052-000011135FED9C13.jpg
Three layers of 7/16" OSB glued together is cheaper than one layer of 3/4" ply the same size. Plus depending on the size of the bench top (and how many sheets you buy), you have left overs for a back wall and shelves that aren't overkill like 3/4" would be. Personally I find 3/4" ply unnecessary for a reloading bench.
I went with a variation on the hammerzone plans. I have all the boards marked up, just need to make the cuts and put it together. Build your own bench, that way you can make it the way you want it and not have to make add ons or another bench. My corner posts are 4x4s, nice and sturdy.
HotRodSprint
04-06-13, 09:41
I built mine out of 4X4`s, 2X4`s, and 3/4" plywood.
I got the "faux diamond plate" from work along with the 22 ga. galvanized steel top. (the joy`s of working in a sheetmetal fab shop)
I`ve had this bench now for about 3 years and it has been great!
(although it`s not as clean and organized now as it looks in the pic)
http://i290.photobucket.com/albums/ll277/hotrod540/Bench1.jpg
John Hearne
04-06-13, 12:49
I need that light rig. :)
It's nice but when combined with the four tube fluorescent ceiling fixture just out of frame, my eyes are real happy. Amazing what happens after 40.
I'm tearing mine apart and starting again. Mine is about 40" wide and about 24" deep.
The problem becomes unused horizontal space that ends up as a catch-all for all sorts of crap. Lets face it, a press takes up about 8-10" of depth from the front edge. Everything behind that is susceptible to catching stuff put down in a hurry and left for a long time.
My new thought/solution is to make a slightly wider bench but only 12" deep. Enough for the presses but not enough to catch crap. I'm going to anchor the snot out of it...both to the wall and floor. I'm going to put some shelves just above the presses for things like powder measures, scales, etc.
My hope is to keep the clutter to a minimum and still keep full functionality.
If it works, great....if not, I can always tear it down and start again!
I'm tearing mine apart and starting again. Mine is about 40" wide and about 24" deep.
The problem becomes unused horizontal space that ends up as a catch-all for all sorts of crap. Lets face it, a press takes up about 8-10" of depth from the front edge. Everything behind that is susceptible to catching stuff put down in a hurry and left for a long time.
My new thought/solution is to make a slightly wider bench but only 12" deep. Enough for the presses but not enough to catch crap. I'm going to anchor the snot out of it...both to the wall and floor. I'm going to put some shelves just above the presses for things like powder measures, scales, etc.
My hope is to keep the clutter to a minimum and still keep full functionality.
If it works, great....if not, I can always tear it down and start again!
I could get behind that for a bench dedicated only to reloading presses. I personally though dont have the luxury(or space) to have 2 benches and I need a bench for other projects thats deeper than 12". I bet most people are in my boat as well.
ICANHITHIMMAN
04-07-13, 22:34
Mine is a mess but it works
http://i302.photobucket.com/albums/nn119/ICANHITHIMMAN/DSCF0862_zps3a9d3dc5.jpg
I could get behind that for a bench dedicated only to reloading presses. I personally though dont have the luxury(or space) to have 2 benches and I need a bench for other projects thats deeper than 12". I bet most people are in my boat as well.
My reloading competes with a woodworking bench for space at the front of my garage. The WW bench serves as the flat surface for all of the other needs, leaving just the reloading for the small space....well, that's my hope at least.
Just getting started. Turning a spare bedroom into an office and decided to set my loading bench up inside and keep cleaning and prep in the garage separately. Took me all day yesterday to get to this point as the bench didn't quite fit without some custom fitting. Already had the bench in the garage, but it required trimming a few inches off of the corners and reassembly inside the closet to make it fit. This is one of the benches that Sams Club sells, and it's roughly 72"x24", and from memory I think it's around 38" tall. Heavy as can be, but all the weight is in the maple slab top. :D
http://txbonds.zenfolio.com/img/s8/v78/p1522714692-5.jpg
http://txbonds.zenfolio.com/img/s2/v71/p1522714414-5.jpg
http://txbonds.zenfolio.com/img/s9/v92/p1522714536-4.jpg
Will have a rolling cabinet under the left side of the bench for storage, and when working it can be pulled out to provide an additional work top surface. You can see the corner of it in the pictures. Also plan to mount a single stage press on here as well. It should arrive this week, a Lee Classic Cast, but will need to get another stand for it because the closet doors will not close if it were mounted on front of the bench as there is only about 1/2" of clearance when they close. :)
txbonds, I really like your setup.
txbonds, I really like your setup.
The carpet is troubling me big time. I'm too much of a mess to load on carpet.
The carpet is troubling me big time. I'm too much of a mess to load on carpet.
:D The only real consideration I gave to the carpet was regarding static, but what I think I've decided is that I just need to be aware of what clothes I'm wearing. As long as we've owned this house I've never really had a problem with static other than when wearing certain clothing types. I'm not picking up any problems around the bench though and though about looking into some sort of anti static mat to put down in front of it as well. Not sure if it's needed though.
txbonds, I really like your setup.
Thanks. Snapped another shot to show the cart in place for storage. And I got a power strip mounted on the front of the closet shelf this morning also to give me places to plug in scales and led press lights and what not.
http://txbonds.zenfolio.com/img/s9/v94/p1523734068-5.jpg
I'm trying to make this all fairly modular in style as we think we might be moving in a year or two for job reasons, so I don't want to do a full built in setup here. This will allow me to disassemble and take everything with me if that time comes. Only other thing I'm somewhat considering right now is scrapping the Dillon stand and switching to a mounting system on the front of the bench that allows me to quick mount and dismount the presses. I am thinking about doing one on each side and that way I hang the press off the bench front when I'm ready to use it and put it away when I'm done. The idea being that I can make the bench top as open as wanted, and I can swap between tools depending on what process I'm doing without needing more bench space. The wedge shaped Lee mount system looks interesting, but I'm still exploring.
txbonds: that "garageworks" wall hanging setup is great. I love the one we put up at my old mans house above his bench. I generally keep bulk bullets and clean cases in them and I can just grab them down and set them next to the Dillon and I am ready to rock. The paper towel holder we got for ours was, I shit you not, one of the better accessories. We also got a couple hanging hooks to keep the couple basic tools we use a lot(bullet puller hammer thing, and wrenches for the various lock nuts on the dies) handy.
Sure is a lot of Blue on those benches. Just over four weeks now since I ordered my 550.
Just scored a 550b with caliber conversion kit and dies (and many other goodies) today at the LGS...for 100% pre-panic prices...I feel like I won the lottery (especially after seeing some of the crazy prices for these things on GB). Now I suddently need to get cracking on cleaning up / reorganizing the basement (long time honey-do list item) so that I can create a reloading bench and work area - thanks to all who have posted their sources & ideas in this thread. I like the idea of modularity & quick-change inserts for different tools, but I think that may be down the road for me.
Questions for those in the know:
Topic 1 - attachment: assuming a sizeable bench (24-30" x 48" x 3/4" plywood (2 layers) at a minimum, with 4x4 legs), should I plan on attaching it to a wall, or is that unnecessary?
Topic 2 - climate: the basement of this house is unfinished, unheated, un-airconditioned, but seems OK from a climate perspective. It doesn't ever freeze, and it never seems to get above about 75 or so in the worst of the summer (it's below grade). I have a small dehumidifier running down there 24-7, but should I be concerned about too much humidity, or too little? Does anyone run climate monitoring equipment indoors to check on this, or is that overthinking it? Do I need to think about adding another zone to my HVAC system (or perhaps just taking a sort of vampire / parasite mini-duct off the ground floor vent) to keep things moderated?
Topic 3 - component storage: how / in what should I be storing primers and powder jugs, respectively? I'd rather not leave them out in the open (kids).
Many thanks. Sorry if this is verging on threadjacking....
Hdog83:
TOPIC #1: Yes, I would put a 1-2 x 6 on the back to mount to the studs in the wall. Although you are going with a 3/4 x 3/4 top which will add mass mine is a full 8' wide and has plenty of weight on the lower shelf. With the Dillon style of press there is a push portion of the strke when seating primers. Being a lighter bench i'd be afraid of it continually banging into the wall when seating primers once you got your rythem in a production run. Primer seating is the weak process on a Dillon perticulasrly with the large pistol.
TOPIC #2: I also load in a 1930s era basement with a few dewatering updates. I occassionally run a DH ilperiodically in the winter during the heavy rain times to keep mold and mildew down. I think that Anywhere in the 50-70% is fine and generally only run mone once it gets alittle damp. No interior atmosphere monitoring and it generally runs 55-68 throight the year.
TOPIC 3: As far as primer/powder storage a cool dry lcation. I seperate powder and primers. Powder is kept /n a wooden cabinet along an exterior wall. Here is some info http://www.alliantpowder.com/getting_started/safety/storage_handling.aspx#consider. Primers are stored in a wooden cabinet in factory shipping/packaging untill needed.
Looks as if I'm going to be building another bench for my apartment in Anchorage. Thinking 24" x 6' for building 1911s and a single stage press. I don't have alot of time to shoot here but we are a long barge riide from Seattle. We can't mail order large quantities or ammo via fedex/ups and the same with powder and primers. You have to go through a freight fowarder in Seattle and have them put it on a barge for you or play like everyone else and buy when available on the store shelves.
I don't attach mine but they are pretty big and have lots of weight on the shelving below the top. My 650 is good and solid on an 11 footer. I load all most of my rifle on it with five presses mounted up.
The 550 is on a 6 footer. I have no issues with it hoping around as their are another four presses on it and loading pistol is not that violent.
My supplies are all indoors in the house and have been for years in closets. Normal AC handles mine well. No climate monitoring and I still have stiff from the 70's I am using at times. Your dehumidifier should do the trick.
You can look over my bench pictures and see where the extra weight comes in. Tying into the studs is nice but an option I chose not to do in this house.
Greg
Some of you all have some great set ups. Mine is small but effective. The coolest thing about mine is that I built the bench from salvaged yellow pine football stadium bleacher boards. I also built it to easily disassembled, anticipating the 8-9 moves I made since then....
Dawgfan4life
04-12-13, 10:19
I just purchased my first reload kit. Going to lowes this weekend to buy bench building supplies. Pretty excited. The pictures in this thread will be of great use to me. Thank you all.
Finished this bench last week, Dillon strong mount and dial calipers inbound. I should have the 550b mounted up and loading by weeks end. There is more than enough room for future expansion.
http://i1117.photobucket.com/albums/k581/doose1/IMG_2490_zpsc7006c9a.jpg (http://s1117.photobucket.com/user/doose1/media/IMG_2490_zpsc7006c9a.jpg.html)
http://i1117.photobucket.com/albums/k581/doose1/IMG_2489_zpsdbebfd4b.jpg (http://s1117.photobucket.com/user/doose1/media/IMG_2489_zpsdbebfd4b.jpg.html)
http://i1117.photobucket.com/albums/k581/doose1/IMG_2488_zps183cfb85.jpg (http://s1117.photobucket.com/user/doose1/media/IMG_2488_zps183cfb85.jpg.html)
Ttwwaack - (again, this time publicly) thanks for the reply & info - much appreciated.
duece71 - sweet looking bench - much like what I'm about to start building tomorrow. What did you use for the top, and what are the rough dimensions? Thanks.
For those still looking for ideas, here's an interesting take on a woodworking bench that I found...it's a bit involved, but it does give some ideas: http://www.finewoodworking.com/fwnpdffree/011181054.pdf
Here's the one that I'm planning on duplicating: http://sketchup.google.com/3dwarehouse/details?mid=bc332979fc109770d64a3138a3b0bc96&prevstart=0
http://sketchup.google.com/3dwarehouse/download?mid=bc332979fc109770d64a3138a3b0bc96&rtyp=lt&ctyp=other&ts=1274910711000
(FYI - if you download and install Google Sketchup, which I just did, and then download this plan, you can view & rotate in 3D, get dimensions & measurements, make changes...great geek toy.)
Ttwwaack - (again, this time publicly) thanks for the reply & info - much appreciated.
duece71 - sweet looking bench - much like what I'm about to start building tomorrow. What did you use for the top, and what are the rough dimensions? Thanks.
For those still looking for ideas, here's an interesting take on a woodworking bench that I found...it's a bit involved, but it does give some ideas: http://www.finewoodworking.com/fwnpdffree/011181054.pdf
Here's the one that I'm planning on duplicating: http://sketchup.google.com/3dwarehouse/details?mid=bc332979fc109770d64a3138a3b0bc96&prevstart=0
http://sketchup.google.com/3dwarehouse/download?mid=bc332979fc109770d64a3138a3b0bc96&rtyp=lt&ctyp=other&ts=1274910711000
(FYI - if you download and install Google Sketchup, which I just did, and then download this plan, you can view & rotate in 3D, get dimensions & measurements, make changes...great geek toy.)
Bench top is 2 pieces of MDF (1 1/4 inch thick) glued and screwed together. On top of that is a 1/2 inch thick piece of Blonde wood for the top surface. I used some corner protector I found in the basement for the edges. The bench is 7' long by 3' in width. I mounted a 2x6 on the wall for something to secure the bench to. The bottom frame is going to be a shelf, I just haven't cut the corners off of the two shelf pieces. The shelf is 2 pieces of MDF glued and screwed together for 1 1/4 inch thickness. This bench is rock solid with zero movement. The corner posts are 4x4s and I included a 2x6 at the front under the bench top for even more strength. Can't wait to start loading some ammo.
Bench top is 2 pieces of MDF (1 1/4 inch thick) glued and screwed together. On top of that is a 1/2 inch thick piece of Blonde wood for the top surface. I used some corner protector I found in the basement for the edges. The bench is 7' long by 3' in width. I mounted a 2x6 on the wall for something to secure the bench to. The bottom frame is going to be a shelf, I just haven't cut the corners off of the two shelf pieces. The shelf is 2 pieces of MDF glued and screwed together for 1 1/4 inch thickness. This bench is rock solid with zero movement. The corner posts are 4x4s and I included a 2x6 at the front under the bench top for even more strength. Can't wait to start loading some ammo.
That sucker is huge. Very nice. Should still be standing after an earthquake or tornado levels your home!
I recommend (like I think an earlier poster did) finishing the top with polyurethane. I put enough coats on mine that it's damn near as thick as the OSB beneath it, but it's been bullet proof for years. Tough, easy to clean, and no worries when I spill crap on it. Here's a pic after I finished but before I got my bench all cluttered up.
16367
^^^^ Yeah, if the house gets wiped out, the bench will still be standing! I may put some sort of top layer over the blondewood. How bad is the smell of the polyurethane?? How long to dry?
^^^^ Yeah, if the house gets wiped out, the bench will still be standing! I may put some sort of top layer over the blondewood. How bad is the smell of the polyurethane?? How long to dry?
The smell isn't too bad, to me no worse than painting a room. Buy a quart of simple Minwax "fast drying" clear satin poly from any Home Depot, local hardware, Walmart, etc. Light coat (no bubbles), dry 4 hours or so, then sand lightly (maybe 150 grit). You'll want to use a palm sander since that table's too big to hand sand. I think I did 4-5 coats because I wanted to smooth out the texture on the OSB board, although 2-3 is probably more than enough on that blonde wood.
With no windows inside my space, I am not sure it will swing with the missus. I was hoping for some sort of thin self adhesive surface cover that comes in a roll. I am looking but I have not had any luck. I am not into vinyl flooring, so that's a no go as well. I will keep looking or just not bother and go commando with the blonde wood.
I've never seen a woman that preferred unfinished wood to finished - but I don't claim to be an expert in that regard. :)
IIRC, I used Deft - the same stuff we used to refinish an oak ice box years ago. It could have been something else, however. You do need something to prevent it soaking up oil if you plan to keep cleaning supplies handy.
Paint also works.
I don't plan on doing any maintenance or cleaning on this bench, its for reloading only. I am looking into some sort of contact paper that has an adhesive. Easy to keep clean in case of spills.
macho mouse
04-17-13, 17:24
Look for a water-based poly instead of solvent based. The VOC content is much less and the cleanup is easy. With most of the water-based poly that i have used in building furniture, you can apply three coats a day and they are tough enough to be used on a gym floor. A tip, store the brush in a sealed plastic bag between coats and you won't have to clean the brush until the last coat is done. Usually the water-based stuff cleans up with Dawn dish soap and water.
^^^^ I like this idea, a water based poly would definitely work. I can't deal with the smell and my wife would have a cow. Trying to keep my space as friendly as possible. Thanks for the idea.
Build your own bench. It is more rewarding. I get a sense of accomplishment every time I look at mine.
Boxerglocker
04-22-13, 15:28
I originally bought my current Harbor Freight bench as a interim to use in the spare bedroom at my old apartment. Paid $130 out the door during a HF sale. I moved into my house over a year ago and it still stands there with my XL650, RL1050 and Horandy SS mounted to it.
The the bench is pretty solid, though for insurance I invested a extra $5 in a good wood glue and glued every join. I have plans to build a custom furniture grade finish bench, later this summer after I epoxy the garage floors.For now though, small space a little cramp at times but very efficient so it works out fine.
http://images2.snapfish.com/232323232%7Ffp543%3A8%3Enu%3D68%3C5%3E%3A47%3E254%3EWSNRCG%3D34847%3B3439345nu0mrjhttp://images2.snapfish.com/232323232%7Ffp543%3A8%3Enu%3D68%3C5%3E%3A47%3E254%3EWSNRCG%3D3484797%3B77345nu0mrj
Mine is made from Illegal ivory and Bald Eagle bones. Hand engraved with all my Trust info on it.
I agree that you can't have too much area to work with and also can't stress enough how important it is to lag it to the wall in several spots.
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y29/Rinspeed/023.jpg
Bench top is 2 pieces of MDF (1 1/4 inch thick) glued and screwed together. On top of that is a 1/2 inch thick piece of Blonde wood for the top surface. I used some corner protector I found in the basement for the edges. The bench is 7' long by 3' in width. I mounted a 2x6 on the wall for something to secure the bench to. The bottom frame is going to be a shelf, I just haven't cut the corners off of the two shelf pieces. The shelf is 2 pieces of MDF glued and screwed together for 1 1/4 inch thickness. This bench is rock solid with zero movement. The corner posts are 4x4s and I included a 2x6 at the front under the bench top for even more strength. Can't wait to start loading some ammo.
Good looking bench! What is the height and will you be standing or sitting while reloading. I am trying to figure out optimum height for my bench. Thanks!
eternal24k
04-25-13, 19:32
this thread is pertinent to my interests! I just moved and need to build a small work bench, keep the pics coming
I am trying to figure out optimum height for my bench.
Stand vs. sit is just preference as far as I'm concerned. However, if you choose stand then make the work surface the same height as your belt buckle. I'm a good bit taller than average and when I finally stumbled on that wisdom it was heaven. Couldn't believe how much better it was to work at the proper height for my body.
Good looking bench! What is the height and will you be standing or sitting while reloading. I am trying to figure out optimum height for my bench. Thanks!
The top surface of the bench is right at 36' (3 ft) above the floor. I am still waiting on a strong mount for my 550b so until that shows up, I am still just pondering.....dreaming....:( I will probably end up standing. Sitting would probably require a bar stool or some equivalent, and even then, my back would not like it.
I prefer to set down at my bench. Height on mine is right on 22" I'm only 5'10" so that might make a difference.
Greg
Stand vs. sit is just preference as far as I'm concerned. However, if you choose stand then make the work surface the same height as your belt buckle. I'm a good bit taller than average and when I finally stumbled on that wisdom it was heaven. Couldn't believe how much better it was to work at the proper height for my body.
I am 6'4" and my belt buckle hits at 40-41" , thanks for the feedback. I have always wanted to reload and am just getting started. I bought a Hornady single stage press and electronic powder measure. The first dies I have bought are .308. All I need now are large rifle primers, powder, and a reloading bench.
31" bench height with a 24" stool works for me. No strong mounts - my two Dillons and a single stage are mounted flush to the bench.
My bench is rather high at 35" and I much prefer to sit while reloading.
Mine is made from Illegal ivory and Bald Eagle bones. Hand engraved with all my Trust info on it.
And just a touch of surgical equipment. :D
And just a touch of surgical equipment. :D
My house is basically a reloading plant. The reloading room has the presses and components, the surgical bench has the Giraud trimmer, the Kitchen counter has the RCBS Green Machine powder dispenser, The dining table has the Arbor press and LE Wilson seating dies, and the Entertainment center houses the Case trimmer, Consentricity guage, and Sinclair priming tool.
The shit is out of control. :eek:
My house is basically a reloading plant. The reloading room has the presses and components, the surgical bench has the Giraud trimmer, the Kitchen counter has the RCBS Green Machine powder dispenser, The dining table has the Arbor press and LE Wilson seating dies, and the Entertainment center houses the Case trimmer, Consentricity guage, and Sinclair priming tool.
The shit is out of control. :eek:
You must be single. :p
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You must be single.
No. My Dizzy wife puts up with it without a peep. I don't leave everything out ALL the time.
My house is basically a reloading plant. The reloading room has the presses and components, the surgical bench has the Giraud trimmer, the Kitchen counter has the RCBS Green Machine powder dispenser, The dining table has the Arbor press and LE Wilson seating dies, and the Entertainment center houses the Case trimmer, Consentricity guage, and Sinclair priming tool.
The shit is out of control. :eek:
I hope your at least working the filthy brass out in the garage and not in the parlor...:laugh:
No. My Dizzy wife puts up with it without a peep. I don't leave everything out ALL the time.
Wow, you're fortunate. If I'm downstairs reloading for more than an hour, my wife's on my ass. I've essentially become a closet reloader. :rolleyes:
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I hope your at least working the filthy brass out in the garage and not in the parlor...:laugh:
Crap I forgot about that. Yeah... the tumblers and Vibratory in the Garage. :p
Hey Mark. I just moved into a new apartment here in Anchorage and was wondering who your interior decorator is? Would they be willing to travel to AK to consult on my project. I like the idea of your theme.
Yeah... When you get a nice Sinclair guage or a LE Wilson trimmer. You put that on display in the entertainment center.
I should get pics. :p
Wow, you're fortunate. If I'm downstairs reloading for more than an hour, my wife's on my ass. I've essentially become a closet reloader. :rolleyes:
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Yeah, I will be reloading after hours (and will probably lose some sleep) to avoid unnecessary bullshit confrontation/hassle with the wifey.
Yeah, I will be reloading after hours (and will probably lose some sleep) to avoid unnecessary bullshit confrontation/hassle with the wifey.
Glad to hear I'm not alone. My wife has never been "into guns" & the last few months haven't exactly made things any better. :(
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Glad to hear I'm not alone. My wife has never been "into guns" & the last few months haven't exactly made things any better. :(
Sent from my Motorola DynaTAC 8000X using Tapatalk 2
Mine is much worse. She had a cow when Newtown happened and wanted me to sell everything!!:mad: We just try to keep it on the down low. And now I am reloading!! LMAO.
Mine is much worse. She had a cow when Newtown happened and wanted me to sell everything!!:mad: We just try to keep it on the down low. And now I am reloading!! LMAO.
I guess I should be more grateful for the broad under my roof. :eek:
polymorpheous
04-30-13, 09:09
Me too!
Mine is 8 months pregnant, she wanted to go shooting last week.
My buddy is a C3/SOT so he joined us with some cans.
Now she wants me to get one.
:D
Me too!
Mine is 8 months pregnant, she wanted to go shooting last week.
Keep here away from Lead risk activity or you'll end up with a Liberal for a kid. :p
montanadave
04-30-13, 10:27
Anybody have a "mobile" bench set-up. I'd like to get into reloading and would rather have my equipment at some property I own out-of-town. Here's the catch. I built a small (approx. 500 sq. ft.) bunkhouse which is insulated and heated inside a larger pole barn. There's no room for a dedicated reloading bench in the living area. But plenty of room in the unheated barn area for storage.
So my idea was to get a mechanic's bench-type worktable on castors which I could use in the shop area when the weather's OK but also roll into the bunkhouse during the colder months. I saw a likely candidate at Costco not long ago that looked pretty stout and had a 2" maple top that could be drilled to mount the press. Reasonable idea?
I saw a likely candidate at Costco not long ago that looked pretty stout and had a 2" maple top that could be drilled to mount the press. Reasonable idea?
That bench is great. My siblings and I bought that bench from Costco for my dad when he finally retired last year. He mounted a new progressive press to it and loves it. The surface is bamboo, iirc, and very strong, solid, and heavy. I'll get pics if you want them.
montanadave
04-30-13, 12:31
That bench is great. My siblings and I bought that bench from Costco for my dad when he finally retired last year. He mounted a new progressive press to it and loves it. The surface is bamboo, iirc, and very strong, solid, and heavy. I'll get pics if you want them.
I'd enjoy seeing pictures of your dad's bench when you have an opportunity to post them. Thanks.
I guess I should be more grateful for the broad under my roof. :eek:
And you shoot every Saturday, with an asshole. :D
Travelingchild
04-30-13, 17:52
Anybody have a "mobile" bench set-up. ....... Reasonable idea?
What ever you come up with, use something like this.....
http://www.woodcraft.com/Product/2005331/10869/HTC-HD-Adjustable-Mobile-Base-HTC3000.aspx
Make sure whatever you use that the castors retract & the legs(4x4 posts?) sit on the floor,
Some just lock but the but the bench will still woble...
eternal24k
04-30-13, 20:50
Anybody have a QD setup to remove their press?
Anybody have a QD setup to remove their press?
I have mine mounted to a piece of plywood that I clamp to a work bench in my basement. I'm lacking space so I can't leave it permanently mounted.
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I'd enjoy seeing pictures of your dad's bench when you have an opportunity to post them. Thanks.
Here you are, good sir. This is one of those Costco benches, but I remember now that we got him the one that's stationary and comes with the rolling cabinets. Not quite what you asked about, but at least I can tell you the overall quality/robustness is more than sufficient for my dad's needs. He's not hardcore but he does reload several hundred rounds a month.
16567
16568
I agree with Travelingchild that if you buy/build a rolling bench, you'll want something where the legs rest solid on the ground when it's not moving. His link was a good option... I'm also thinking of some kind of castor attached to the leg that cams up and down. I'll search for an example and post if I can find one.
This isn't quite what I had in mind but it's another option for you, montanadave: http://www.rockler.com/product.cfm?page=30842
It looks like most other retractable castors aren't very heavy duty. Probably what I'd do is mount leveling feet on each leg in addition to a standard non-retractable castor. Screw them up above the wheels for rolling, screw them down below the wheels for working. Seems like that'd be a little cheaper than something fancy.
teflondon100
05-02-13, 08:00
http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa213/cappyten/CIMG0801.jpg (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/cappyten/media/CIMG0801.jpg.html)
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