In article ,
SMS wrote:
On 10/31/2012 11:31 PM, wrote:
I use three layers of 3Ž4² plywood.
I started out with two
but when I bolted the vise on I realized I needed another layer.
I have a very heavy duty vise, must weigh 75 pounds, so I need a strong top.
I will be doing a lot of electronics work on the bench as well, so I
want a smooth top.
I'd like a one piece top, but finding a 10' door or counter isn't easy.
The cheapest would be granite (around here granite from China is about
the least expensive countertop material) but I don't want granite.
I could do the three sheets of plywood (two sets of three sheets for the
area I need), but that would cost more than the solid core doors.
Seriously, check McMaster's pricing on Maple butcher block. 72" x 30" x
1.75" thick is only $233, with or without a radius at the front edge.
If you're committed to 10', you're up around 5 bills and still worth
every penny. Compared to cobbling sheets of plywood together and trying
to make it smooth and flat, that's not a lot more money for a much
better solution. I've got about six of them at the shop.