William said: "The main idea behind something like the masonite is that it is sacrificial. If you need to do something that might be detrimental to a nice maple workbench, throw a fitted piece of masonite on top and whack away. If it gets too ugly, toss it and fit another, but save that maple." William, I agree with this philosophy. However, Joel was talking about a Regulation Bench. NOT a hammer/slammer bench. I have Four work benches in my small shop. My main grand bench, which is 3' X 7' X 2" Laminated Maple w/ two-way drawers for tools, a Bureau end for major tools, etc. It is the heart of my shop. The other benches: 1. The key bench w/a machinist's vise mounted on it. Lot's of things are done on this bench other than it's prime label of Key Bench. 2.Upright Action Bench,. (lower than the main bench) It has a woodworkers Vise mounted on it. Much woodworking, such a planing are done on this bench. 3. Miscellaneous Bench. Odd stuff and lay-out are done on this bench. It has various vises that can be clamped onto it, for specialized work. Each has a different type of top.<G> A work bench can be more than just a work bench. It can be a specialized storage for tools, special woods, specialty tools, power tools....the list is never ending.<G> Regards, Joseph Garrett, R.P.T. Captain, Tool Police Squares R I
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