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Hi all, I’d like to request some input on setting up a home workshop/workbench. Pictures would be awesome! I’ve got a small area that I’m going to re do for home smithing projects. I’ve been extremely interested in doing this for some time. Basic tool lists, any information that you think would be helpful and of course....PICTURES PLEASE! | ||
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Here is a bench I made in 1960 to use in Appt. in TSJC gunsmithing projects.  This is white oak that we sawed at our saw mill and air dried. The top is a solid piece 1 3/4 X 16 in. X 6 ft long. It was designed to be taken apart to haul to Trinidad with bolts. It was only 16 in. deep and had drawers that could be locked so my son couldn't get into any part of the bench drawers or the bottom shelve where I kept my tools and books. A sliding light at the top could be moved to direct the light where it was needed. I like peg board for holding my hand tools. I sold the bench when I finished school and I really missed having a portable shop bench. | |||
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Excellent. Thank you. That’s pretty close to as much room as I’ll have. I may be infringing upon your copyright.  | |||
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Les, curious, what did you use the propane torch for? Use enough gun... Shoot 'till it's dead, especially if it bites. | |||
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I used the propane torch to heat treat my stock chisels as it is hot enough to harden and draw the temper much slower. I still have most of these tools. I would use the schools torches and machines in class and then do most of the bench work at the appt at night. I can recall making 8 or 9 stocks on that bench by working late at night. I had a couple of yrs of college before going to TSJC and they let me double up on 2nd year courses in my first year. I was the first one allowed to finish the classes in 5 quarter semesters up until that time. The school required to take courses that would transfer to a 4 yr college when finished to work on a BS degree. I understand that they don't have the requirement at this time. All they want is the money. | |||
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Tools? That is like a new cook asking what he needs to cook food. First tell us what exactly you want to do; then I will tell you the tools you need. As for benches, again, it depends if you want to crank off barrels, or install sling swivels. One end of the spectrum to the other, in rigidity requirements. For a small area, and light work, just get a bench from Harbor Freight and save the hassle; they are ok; not for pulling barrels. | |||
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Very cool, thanks. I still remember that stock you made from you travel trailer- very cool and really informative! Use enough gun... Shoot 'till it's dead, especially if it bites. | |||
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Jkinpa Ralph Walker wrote a book back in the 1960's titled Hobby Gunsmithing. Walker was a very successful professional gunsmith. He dedicated an entire chapter to building and organizing a bench like he used. I patterned mine after his about 1974. The only difference being the top was a 3/4 inch 8X4 piece of plywood split to give me a 1 1/2 thick 8X2 foot top. Very rigid and solid. I still have it today. You can probably find that book today on Amazon. What ever it costs it is well worth it. It is one of the better books out there for a beginer. Les You dated yourself with that work bench picture. Take a look at the transistor radio sitting there. Craftsman | |||
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Thank you all for the input so far, it’s truly appreciated. - Les, thanks for the picture and follow up, sir. - Craftsman, funny you mention that book, I just bought a few books as a bundle on another forum, and that’s one of them. Looking forward to it and the others as well. As far as my uses, just basic detailed cleaning, bedding, scope mount, whatever. Things of that nature for the moment. I’m seriously considering seeing if any local gunsmiths are in need of an assistant or apprentice. As I get older the days get shorter and go quicker. It’s been a passion for some time. | |||
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Yes, I bought Ralph Walker's book when it had just come out and still have it. I also used to write PO Ackley letters about gunsmithing and he actually took time to write me back; I have those too. Where do you live; you can come over and I will teach you what I know, which is very little of practical value. | |||
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PM sent your way | |||
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No PM received here. Retry sending the message.  This small lathe will help you do small jobs and will not take up lots of space as the table is 2 ft by 3 ft. I try to help all people with tools that they can afford and you don't need to spend thousands on tools until you think it will pay for themselves. x | |||
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