So many options from which to choose.
Some can work without vises using dog holes, wedges and battens. There are those who love their twin-screw bench top vise, also called a Moxon vise.
Some feel there is only one way to build a bench and all others are not worthy.
If it does what you want and need to do, then it is the right bench for you no matter what anyone else proclaims.
if I try to use just on pair of dogs, the vise racks terribly.
"For every problem there is a solution" - Morgan Freeman's character in RED
If the bench is too light, a 5 gallon bucket full of sand or cement can come in real handy.
There are many ways to solve any problem in a woodworking shop.
Part of the design process of one's bench is to introduce as few future problems as possible.
The defining criteria are your plans for future projects and your own method of work.
Ken has the best idea for many of life's challenges,
In other words....use KISS
Keep It Simple!
Some love their Scandinavian style benches. For my way of working it doesn't fill the bill.
Some love their Nicohlson benches. Others abhor the idea of any apron across the front let alone one that covers so much area.
The Rubo bench is very popular. I was intrigued by the idea of a wagon vise. It doesn't seem to have the versatility my simple vise (yes it racks) for some of the odd jobs done in my shop. I am still considering a leg vise. The more it is thought of the less likely it will be incorporated.
Building a bench or retrofitting one already built requires some thought on the part of the user.
The most important consideration isn't what works for others, it is what will work best for you, your needs and your future plans.
jtk
Last edited by Jim Koepke; 08-14-2014 at 12:42 PM.
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty."
- Sir Winston Churchill (1874-1965)