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For years I've wanted to build a traditional bench. I really liked one that was in "The Workbench Design Book". I finally decided to after finding this top at a local Builders Surplus store. It is made up from 2"x4"x7' African Mahogany that was part of a counter top that was to be installed in a house in New Zealand along with about 50 more feet up to 4' wide. Unfortunantly they did not lay the grain out so the grain all ran the same direction which made it difficult to flatten by hand but I enjoyed the challenge. The base is from some reclaimed old growth fir that a local lumber mill had stored for 30 years out of site and out of mind which I stumbled upon while looking for offcuts. The base posts are 5"x5" and the stretchers/runners are 2"x6". The end vise chop is hard maple as will be the shoulder vise and all of its parts. As I get closer to completion, I will post more pictures.

I put the first layer of Linseed Oil on the top last night. I plan on getting a layer on the base tonight.
Well all the linseed oil is on as well as some leather for the chops. I used Moose hide on the end vise and elk on the shoulder vise.

All that is left is the Dead man and shelf boards.

Bob the cat thinks I built the bench for him.

Gallery

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19,753 Posts
Wow that's one sturdy looking bench,nice job and a good find.
 

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20 Posts
Another winner Tym…..nice!!!
 

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230 Posts
Awesome bench, that top is gorgeous! Looks sturdy as all heck!
 

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Thanks for the idea to look for counter tops. Did not think of that…. I like how sturdy the base looks.
 
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