If you do any hand tool work in your shop then I would highly suggest building a tabletop workbench. I was hesitant to take the time to build mine because I didn't think I'd really use it all that much, but boy was I wrong. I'm working on a small jewelry box and have found so many opportunities to use this workbench.
One of the biggest advantages is that it brings the work closer to me so that I'm not bent over so much. This is especially helpful when working on small pieces like a tiny box I built for a jewelry box. It is also really nice to just have a secondary solid workplace for doing work that frees up space at my main workbench.
The tail vise is a game changer for me. I really wish I would have put a tail vise into my main bench, still might, but what is nice about this smaller tail vise is that it the dog holes are able to be placed close to the edge of the bench which makes it possible to secure and work on smaller pieces, which I do a lot of work on.
And lastly, the moxon vise is a really nice feature. I cut a lot of dovetails and being able to easily secure pieces in a moxon vise is way better then trying to secure only half a board in my workbench's main face vise.
This really is my favorite shop upgrade I've made to date. In one project I added two new work holding options and gave myself another whole work surface. If you don't have a mini workbench, I highly recommend you build one!
----------- Hardware used -----------
I got all my hardware from Lowe's/Home Depot but I've also included similar products off of Amazon.
Threaded Rod:
- https://amzn.to/45vEXKk (Amazon)
- https://www.lowes.com/pd/Steelworks-Steel-Threaded-Rod/3128775 (Lowes)
Bushing (spacer):
- https://amzn.to/3LYRLlG (Amazon)
- https://www.lowes.com/pd/Hillman-0-625-in-x-7-8-in-Plain-Steel-Standard-SAE-Flat-Washer/3012320 (Lowes)
Lock Collar:
- https://amzn.to/3QfCuiU (Amazon)
Moxon Vise Bolts:
- https://www.homedepot.com/p/Everbilt-3-4-in-10-x-8-in-Zinc-Plated-Hex-Bolt-801286/204633365 (Home Depot)
For behind the scenes of what goes on in the shop follow me here:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daughters.wood.co/
------------ Tools I use ------------
Vise:
- Yost 7" Quick Release Vise: https://amzn.to/3zZkAHR (Amazon)
Japanese Saws:
- SUIZAN 9.5 Inch Ryoba Pull Saw: https://amzn.to/38FVxf4 (Amazon)
- SUIZAN 9.5 Inch Dozuki Dovetail Pull Saw: https://amzn.to/3mZfrHr (Amazon)
Chisels:
- Narex Richter Bevel Edge Chisel (1/4, 1/2, 3/4, and 1): https://amzn.to/2WNUEMc (Amazon)
Mallet/Hammer:
- Thor Soft and Hard Face Hammer: https://amzn.to/37SvItn (Amazon)
Clamps:
- IRWIN QUICK-GRIP Clamps Set, 8-Piece: https://amzn.to/3aIhBIT (Amazon)
Sharpening:
- Ultra Sharp Diamond Sharpening Stones: https://amzn.to/38RARBh (Amazon)
Drill Press:
- Wen 4208 8", 5-Speed Drill Press: https://amzn.to/3pryuMi (Amazon)
The above are tools I use for just about every project in the workshop and come highly recommended! They are all affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. I may earn commission through purchases made through the links above.
#woodworking #workbench #handtools