I am designing a workbench. I was fairly set on the traditional European design, until I saw some designs that included the Noden Adjustable Legs. I liked the idea and the Noden appear well designed and well made.
I initially rejected the Noden because I was set on a traditional design from wood. Then it dawned on me that if the fine craftsmen who developed the traditional benches had the machinery and tools of today, they may have designed their benches differently.
I began thinking of building the traditional Frank Klausz bench top and attaching it to the Noden adjustable height leg set.
Is anyone on this forum using an adjustable height bench design?
Greg
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Edited 4/18/2009 7:10 pm by Cincinnati
Replies
Looks like I may become the first. Exciting position!
Greg
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I agree this is a neat idea, but without being able to see one first, I am concerned about the stability. I want my bench to feel like a rock for hand work so anything less than full-scale solid wood benches don't usually provide that.
I also began wondering how often I would actually want to adjust it, especially if you have a 200# bench top? I imagine I would initially adjust it to my liking and then never change it, so what have I gained over just building a bench to my desired height?
Just some thoughts but I agree that the idea is interesting and I sure would like to see one up close.
I foresee some reasons to adjust the bench.
1. One height for routing, and using power tools, perhaps another height for hand planing, chiseling. etc .
2. If I need it to be an infeed/outfeed support for any number of machines.
3. As the height of my projects increases, I could see a need for a lower bench height
These legs weigh 80 pounds. Seems a little light for a 250# top, but they are designed for having stretchers added that will incrrease stability and weight.
Unconventional I know, but just some thoughts considering I have a smalll workshop. I could end up setting height and leaving it. But I believe if I had the capability to adjust it, I would.
Greg
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I did some more searching and perhaps stability is not an issue after all. One poster here at FWW saw the bench at a trade show and didn't think it was stable enough for hand planing, but several others at SawMillCreek have bought the bench and claim it's "rock solid". Perhaps it all comes down to careful assembly.Sounds like you may have the ideal application for adjustable legs. Go for it. Let us know how they work out.
Edited 4/25/2009 8:51 am ET by jhard
that's 125 pounds to hold and adjust at the same time. How will you do it as I am considering the same!
kevin
I can't answer your question, but it certainly is a valid one.I have come off the idea of a new workbench lately. I had been unhappy with my bench for a long time, but without knowing specifically why. Then about a month ago, I decided to raise it to 36" by putting blocks under the legs. Wow, what a difference! Easier to use and easier on the back. Since raising it, I haven't felt the need to have it higher or lower, so I am just sticking with what I got.Just for the record, I am 6'1", ymmv.
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