Loading bench top question

[SmokeRing]

I am going to setup a reloading bench using two wood file cabinets as a base. My choices at Home Depot for a top are 1) kitchen counter top 2' x 6', 2) a piece of laminated pine 2'x6'x1 1/4 or 3) 3/4 inch plywood cut to 2x6 and double layered. Seating span is about 30 inches. Can those counter tops be drilled and could they hold a 30 inch unspported span? Which of the above would be best or are there better options. Any opinions welcomed. TIA

 

[P95Carry]

Sounds to me like any and all will cut it. If that 30" unsupported is 1 1/2" or thicker then great ... it'll drill and you can mount about anything. Just make sure you are well attached to filing drawer units.

Main thing will be how robust the whole deal is - and I'd suggest tying in to the wall the two filing cabinet units .... via the top you use .. just so as to avoid any tipping with leverage from a press. Coupla pressed steel brackets would do it.

Should work well.

 

[Valkman]

I have 16' of countertop and it will work well for your bench!

 

[P95Carry]

Don ... hey! That is just TOO damn tidy to be real!!!

(But - NICE!!)

 

[Valkman]

I need a more recent pic, as that was right after installation. I've revamped the whole garage maximizing room and getting rid of crap, and now I really love it out there. DirecTV, swamp cooler, stereo!

 

[P95Carry]

DirecTV, swamp cooler, stereo!

Sheesh - and you mean you actually get some loading done! Wow!!

 

[Valkman]

Deleted the old pic, so here's a more recent pic. This is the way to reload - I really enjoy it.

 

[redbone]

One more option - have you thought about a solid-core door? Without the pre-drilled holes for the lock, of course.

Works real nice, and for a few extra $$, you can get a nice oak door.

RBH

 

[P95Carry]

That's real nice Don ...... but hey - it still looks almost disgustingly tidy!



I could live with that tho - in a heartbeat!

 

[Jeeper]

I really like the countertops that have a built in backsplash. It keeps crap from falling off of the back. The lamination is also nice since you can spill and then it wont hurt anything or stain it.

 

[Sunray]

As long as none of 'em are particle board, OSB, you'll be fine. OSB snaps when any pressure is put on it. I had to put on a square foot of 1/4" mild steel. Fortunately, I knew a guy. Got it free.