Need help designing a Reloading bench

[Wildyams]

I've always thought of a reloading bench as just a large, flat plane. but what if it wasn't just a square flat plane? What if portions of it were pulled up, or pushed down to accommodate for different things? or maybe an over hang for something?

maybe where I have my powder measuring "station" I raise the level of the table top 6 inches, getting it closer to eye level so its easier to read the scale? or possible a spot where I drop it down a foot or so to put my tumbler? (could i put that in like an enclosed box to cut down on dust? or would that overheat it possibly?)

I need to make it something unique and different. but in the end, I would like it to function well because it will probably cost a small chunk of change

 

[ranger335v]

Place your powder measure behind and just to the left of your main press, well off the front of the bench, and close to the (elevated) scale and trickler location. Placed that way you can size/reprime cases, then charge them by either dumping straight from the measure or weighing/trickling each charge before seating bullets and do it all without moving your feet. That's a GOOD work flow pattern!

Place your tumbler on top when in use. Store it, media and a seperator underneath.

 

[Seedtick]

Wildyams, I really like the way Rembrandt has his bench built with the t-tracks for mounting everything. As a matter of fact I already have the tracks, now if I just had time to build this thing.
:banghead:

My bench is gonna be 8 feet long x 40 inches deep with the back 12 inches being shelves behind doors. The base will have drawers with one compartment with a pull-out shelf for my tumbler and I may even put an air compressor in it. I don't know if I can enclose it and dampen the sound enough for the compressor yet? I may have to just plumb the air to my bench from outside.

Wildyams, I'm really enjoying this thread. I predict that you'll ace this course and have a dandy bench ta boot!

ST

 

[Rugg_Ed]

Consider mounting the reloading press or presses separate from the work bench. Making a lighter nice look work bench.
Good luck with the project

 

[Wildyams]

What type of wood would you guys recommend?

I'm looking for something that looks good, is strong enough and isn't extremely expensive.

 

[BleysAhrens]

I've always thought of a reloading bench as just a large, flat plane. but what if it wasn't just a square flat plane? What if portions of it were pulled up, or pushed down to accommodate for different things? or maybe an over hang for something?

maybe where I have my powder measuring "station" I raise the level of the table top 6 inches, getting it closer to eye level so its easier to read the scale? or possible a spot where I drop it down a foot or so to put my tumbler? (could i put that in like an enclosed box to cut down on dust? or would that overheat it possibly?)

I need to make it something unique and different. but in the end, I would like it to function well because it will probably cost a small chunk of change

Hmmm. Here is a good idea
Make some small open end boxes, much like a shoe box out of some wood.. Make it big enough to "hide" your scale and what not under it when not in use. Maybe glue some felt on the edges for closer to a dust free seal, and not mar up your "nice" reloading bench. Then you can use it for a stand to bring things up closer to eye level.
Another interesting idea I just came up with, but not sure it is plausible...
Make nice looking "quick" connect for things you bolt down on the bench. Of course it is measured to the proper width from hole to hole, so you would have to do it for everything you bolt down. Drill each hole a little larger than needed, then insert a tube onto the holes that is the same as the hole, but will accommodate the bolts. Note: this tube will have to be less than the thickness of the bench for proper securing on both sides.. IE: big nut and washer on the bottom and item being secured on top. Maybe epoxy the tube into the wood for strengthening purposes..
I have come up with a good idea for a sturdy bench top using 2x4s if anyone is interested.
I know this is an old thread, but I could not help the creativity...

 

[AK Eggy]

I know it's an old thread but.....

I saw in the current issue of Handloadera bench (and plans) from Baldy Mountain Enterprises. What I like is that everything is behind closed doors or in drawers (my set-up is in the family room, so I need to keep it clean and keep the stuff out of tiny, curious hands). It's in an ad on page 66.

Has any one built one like this or seen this in person? The ad is just a drawing so I'm curious what it would look like in real life.

 

[lttuna]

Reloading bench

Picked up one at Harbor Freight in Gainesville for $125.00 with coupon. Solid maple top (I think) with 4 drawers. Easy to put together in 2 hrs 1 person. Solid doesn't rock even on a carpet

 

[Old Dog Man]

Reloading table

Mine has 4x4 legs, 3/4" top with 1/4" smooth plywood over that. It works for me, but might be cramped for others. Al

 

[Flatbush Harry]

I was over at HomeDepot to get wood for a plan I found on the internet. As I walked through the tool department, I saw their Husky Workbench, priced at $179 IIRC. It looked like it would work perfectly. Bought one, got it home, 1-1/2 hours to assemble.

I've used it for more than 2 years and it is perfect for my purposes. I attached RCBS Accessory base plates at either front corner and one in the middle front. It allows me a sizable work area, an easy way to mount just the equipment I want to use (I drank the RCBS KoolAid so all my equipment is ok for quick attachment/detachment)....plenty of storage and to date has handled everything I need to do. I load 6 handgun calibers and 5 rifle calibers, using an RCBS turret for the handgun stuff (faster productivity) and a Rockchucker for rifle. I recommend equipment and setup highly.