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  1. #1
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    Default Workbench Book (the definitive)

    OK, I'm no expert on workbench books, but I just read (could hardly put down) one that could take the title of definitive workbench book; until the next one...
    Workbenches, from Design & Theory to Construction & Use by Christopher Schwarz 2007
    With years of experience using different bench designs, and much historical research into workbench designs of a bygone era, the author has elegantly and emphatically presented two bench designs that are as close to perfection for hand and powertool use as you are ever likely to get. The designs have not been in general use for more than 100 years. Christopher explains the functional failures to avoid, the customisation that best suits the type of work you do and two full chapters on the construction of these two benches. He explains the key features and best applications for different vices and appliances (holddowns etc)
    The book is packed with illustrations to help get his ideas across, but it is not a visual feast in the way Jim Tolpin's Toolbox book is. Christopher I believe, is first and foremost a pragmatist, his reasoning is clear and leaves little room to doubt his thesis. It's written in a style that gives you a glimpse into his philosophy on life and woodworking that I think would resonate with most fellow woodies. There are a couple Amerenglish quirks in the grammar - like the one in this sentence that are a bit annoying, but hell, it takes nothing away from the book.
    You guessed it, I love this book, the contents and the style it's written in. I consider it a must for any woodworker thinking of building(or buying - especially buying!) a workbench and a jolly good investment for the rest too.
    Can't speak too highly of it.

    Cheers
    Michael

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  3. #2
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    Default

    Remember - there are 2 versions of this book - one includes a DVD with extra material including plans and an extra style of bench. Lee Valley sell the DVD version IIRC.

  4. #3
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    Nice write-up Michael, thanks. The Lee Valley version is here and costs US25.50.


  5. #4
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    I have one by Scott Landis that I like but it does not sound as comprehensive as Schwarz's.



    The other one is Lon Schleining's The Workbench


  6. #5
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    Hi Michael.

    I also bought the book on your recommendation and I am very pleased with it. It is very well written and introduces some good sound concepts.

    regards

    Marios
    You can never have enough planes, that is why Mr Stanley invented the 1/2s

  7. #6
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    Glad you liked it Marios! Are you building a bench soon??
    Cheers
    Michael

  8. #7
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    Hi Michael,

    Yes, good write up, thanks.

    I have the two that Groggy listed and liked the Landis one, lots of interesting history. Am sure it has been reviewed here by many.

    I just might have to follow Routermaniac's lead and get the Schwarz book too.

    Seeing that you read it first, might we convince you to build a bench first? Will be watching for the Work In Progress post.

    Cheers
    Pops

  9. #8
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    Quote Originally Posted by Pops View Post
    I just might have to follow Routermaniac's lead and get the Schwarz book too.
    I'll let you know what it's like Pops, I had a rush of blood and looked at the Lee Valley site - stupid of me . Oh well, couple of other little bits I wanted plus I am rebuilding my old clunker bench into a planing bench.

    I figured that all I had to do was replace the rails and crossbeams, legs and the top plus update the vices.

  10. #9
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    Quote Originally Posted by Pops View Post
    Seeing that you read it first, might we convince you to build a bench first? Will be watching for the Work In Progress post.

    Cheers
    Pops
    Looks like HH and myself will be doing a workbench WIP next. Hope it will be up to the high standards set by others

    Cheers
    Michael

  11. #10
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    Quote Originally Posted by mic-d View Post
    Glad you liked it Marios! Are you building a bench soon??
    Cheers
    Michael

    I think I might build a smaller bench in summer (my shed is relatively small, and my current bench takes up a bit of space). On the other other hand just too busy at the moment...

    Marios
    You can never have enough planes, that is why Mr Stanley invented the 1/2s

  12. #11
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    Quote Originally Posted by Groggy View Post
    I'll let you know what it's like Pops, I had a rush of blood and looked at the Lee Valley site - stupid of me . Oh well, couple of other little bits I wanted plus I am rebuilding my old clunker bench into a planing bench.

    I figured that all I had to do was replace the rails and crossbeams, legs and the top plus update the vices.
    Hey Groggy,

    Thanks for that, interested to hear what you think, compared to the other two books. Arrhh !!! the Lee Valley site, yes the attraction is strong and the will is weak I found, fortunately the plastic is limited.

    On your bench 'tart-up' (can I say that without offending anyone, hope so), I am sure that your careful selection of only the necessary updates will be much quicker than building a new one. Your bench sounds like mine, its got more moves that an Elvis dash doll on a bush bash. Best part on it is the door architrave I whacked onto it to stop the planing wobbles, to limited success. Apart from that, the rest is destined for another life, read scrap heap, well maybe not the Origon plank top.

    Michael and Marios,

    No pressure to build a bench chaps, I have only been putting off building mine for about 10 years. Have purchased the timber though, that is some progress.

    Thanks for the book reviews, it keeps reminding me of my mission.

    Cheers
    Pops

  13. #12
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    Default Which is better?

    Ok, subjective assessment follows....

    The Schwartz book is the more useful reference in my opinion. I agree with everything Mic-d said and, for anyone looking to build a bench, you should get this book first. It is definitely a better technical reference than the others.

    It also comes with a CD containing the full text and drawings (if you order the "deluxe" version).

  14. #13
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    Hi Groggy,

    Well I guess I have no choice now. You, Mic-d and Routermaniac have all given the thumbs up.

    Looks like a visit to the Lee Valley site for me.

    Thanks all.

    Cheers
    Pops

  15. #14
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    Quote Originally Posted by Pops View Post
    Hi Groggy,

    Well I guess I have no choice now. You, Mic-d and Routermaniac have all given the thumbs up.

    Looks like a visit to the Lee Valley site for me.

    Thanks all.

    Cheers
    Pops
    Pops, so I am not the only one to fall for this blatant marketing grab by Rob Lee's stooges My books are cruising their way to me now.
    Pat
    Work is a necessary evil to be avoided. Mark Twain

  16. #15
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    I reckon I'll have to get one or more of these books myself before I start my next workbench. Love the reviews, always a bonus when recommended by a fellow forumite.

    cheers
    Wendy

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