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using hand tools to build a woodworking work bench instead of power tools rank beginner 08-09-2007
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Posted by rank beginner on August 9, 2007, 9:51 pm
Thanks, Paul. Will try just that.

I think I'm going to go for it.

wrote:
> On Thu, 09 Aug 2007 12:38:25 -0700, rank beginner
>
>
>
> >I need to build a workbench (my first one) and have been looking at
> >some plans on the net and have
> >found these that are for what looks to be a nice one:
>
> >http://www.popularmechanics.com/home_journal/workshop/4219723.html?se...
>
> >My question is: the plans say "If you don't have a power miter saw or
> >radial-arm saw, guide your circular
> >saw..."
>
> >Well, what if you don't have even a circular saw? I can't afford one
> >at this very moment, nonetheless need to
> >get building now, because I have other projects that need to get done
> >which themselves require a proper bench with vises. So I need to know
> >whether its feasible for me, someone just starting out (but with
> >mechanical aptitude), to attempt to use a regular hand saw for doing
> >the cross cuts on the construction-grade lumber (or maybe clear
> >hardwood, haven't decided yet). Or whether I should not even try. I'm
> >guessing getting straight cuts would be the major sticking point?? Or
> >is there something else to watch out for? Also, I only have a
> >traditional hand drill, no electric (yet). I figure this shouldn't be
> >a problem, the holes aren't huge and the plans call for ordinary lag
> >screws.
>
> >Any help with this would be greatly appreciated.
>
> >Thank you,
>
> >Chris
>
> Ask this over in rec.woodworking. Lots of friendly folks there
> roughly divided into two camps. Neanders (Neanderthals) who prefer
> hand tools, and Normites (after Norm Abrams, host of New Yankee
> Workshop) who use power tools for everything. You'll get lots of good
> info on benches and building with hand tools. Also, do a google
> groups search for bench or workbench (limit to rec.woodworking)
> because the subject has been discussed in a million threads already.
>
> Building a good bench with hand tools is a challenge, but you will be
> proud of the result for many, many years. Go for it!
>
> Paul F.



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Posted by Edwin Pawlowski on August 9, 2007, 9:52 pm

> Well, what if you don't have even a circular saw? I can't afford one
> at this very moment, nonetheless need to
> get building now, because I have other projects that need to get done
> which themselves require a proper bench with vises. So I need to know
> whether its feasible for me, someone just starting out (but with
> mechanical aptitude), to attempt to use a regular hand saw for doing
> the cross cuts on the construction-grade lumber (or maybe clear
> hardwood, haven't decided yet).

Sure, why not? They build some rather nice furniture before the invention
of electricity and power tools. If, however, you have to buy a handsaw, you
can buy a circular saw for less than a good handsaw.

Take your time and mark a line for the cuts.



Posted by Phisherman on August 10, 2007, 7:17 am
On Thu, 09 Aug 2007 12:38:25 -0700, rank beginner

>I need to build a workbench (my first one) and have been looking at
>some plans on the net and have
>found these that are for what looks to be a nice one:
>
>http://www.popularmechanics.com/home_journal/workshop/4219723.html?series=20
>
>My question is: the plans say "If you don't have a power miter saw or
>radial-arm saw, guide your circular
>saw..."
>
>Well, what if you don't have even a circular saw? I can't afford one
>at this very moment, nonetheless need to
>get building now, because I have other projects that need to get done
>which themselves require a proper bench with vises. So I need to know
>whether its feasible for me, someone just starting out (but with
>mechanical aptitude), to attempt to use a regular hand saw for doing
>the cross cuts on the construction-grade lumber (or maybe clear
>hardwood, haven't decided yet). Or whether I should not even try. I'm
>guessing getting straight cuts would be the major sticking point?? Or
>is there something else to watch out for? Also, I only have a
>traditional hand drill, no electric (yet). I figure this shouldn't be
>a problem, the holes aren't huge and the plans call for ordinary lag
>screws.
>
>Any help with this would be greatly appreciated.
>
>Thank you,
>
>Chris


A circular saw will make this project easy. They are not too
expensive (about the same price as a nice vise) and you will need to
use it to squarely trim off the benchtop ends. But, yes you can
still build this bench without a circular saw and it will take longer
to build. You may want to substitute ply & hardboard for the top
unless you have a belt sander. Sometimes a nice smooth and flat work
surface is needed. Using hand tools is an important skill to develop,
and building this bench will give you that.

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