Couple of workbench questions

[383 240z]

I have 2 large workbenches, one needs to go, want to help me decide what one to lose??

First up is the one I built in my old shop, 4x4 for legs 2x6 upper frame with 2x6's on 16" centers topped with 3/4" plywood 36" tall, 3'x10' in over all size

Second is what the previous owner left me. 4x4's and 2x6's for structure, topped with 2x4s on edge, then sanded smooth. This one measures 10'x2' a little taller than bench #1

This one is not as sturdy as mine, but I can fix that pretty easy. What one would you guys keep?

I'm planning on cutting whatever one I keep down to 8' as it will fit the layout of the shop better. The bench will be bolted to the 6x8's that make up the structure of the shop.

Next question: "Whats above your bench?" The walls in the shop are 7/16" OSB painted white. I've got about 4'5" of wall space. What should I do with it?

I'm thinking the old standby of pegboard, for storage, might build one of those storage closets, like this one:

or maybe even

Keith

 

[383 240z]

Sorry about the red X. Here is the pic:

 

[akdiesel]

Go as big of bench as you can go. The space will be taken up with projects and can be cleaned easily but allows for your projects to be laid out more.
24" is a typical depth but 30"-32" is better and it still allows for access to the back wall.
I like the option of the peg board on the back wall for every day use tools.
I also like that idea you have on there with the white board. Nice todo list or shopping list notes.
2"x6" frame work will be very sturdy. By using that size you will also loose about 2" of space below the bench. 2"x4" frame work supported every 2' will be fine and use a solid wood bench topper to tie it all in.
Don't forget outlets. One every 2'-3' the length of the bench if you can, and maybe at the front corners. The front edges are nice except the cords can get pinched in the front drawers.

 

[383 240z]

Just for giggles here are a few pics of the benches in question.

My bench:

The other bench:

Please don't give me **** about the mess. Everything is being dorn down, rearrainged and rebuilt, all new storage, you get the idea. Keith

 

[KEH]

2 x 4s on edge make a stronger top. I vote for it.

Keh

 

[Keep]

Lose the smaller one and make it into a lower shelf for the larger one. Leave some foot space at one end or in the middle for a chair.

 

[rvr6000]

2 x 4s on edge make a stronger top. I vote for it.

Keh

x2. I think I'd keep the bulkier 2x4 top bench.

 

[rick carpenter]

Keith

So are you a Pirate fan?

 

[djjsr]

Do a little housekeeping and organization. Maybe you'll have room for both of them.

 

[383 240z]

Rick, no not a Pirates fan, I'm going to lose my Man Card for this but I don't follow any pro sports. I grabbed that pic from a post on here, just to show what I had in mind. I got TONS of work and building in front of me.

KEH I was thinking about a shelf under the bench, I don't sit at it, so a full width is doable, but think if I keep it to 18" it wont become a **** collector like most flat surfaces tend to around me.

djjsr The 2x4 bench is standing where the mill will go. I may cut it down to 8' and put it in the main shop as a wall mounted work table. Or it will stay full length and go in the basement.

Keith

 

[BlkY2k]

Sorry about the red X. Here is the pic:

Cha ching, got my next project.