Although not a huge fan of DIY, I thought I'd treat myself to a work bench - so any recommendations for a B&D type Workmate, or similar, will be appreciated.
I've been extremely fortunate in the past when moving house, with generous amounts of shelving and work benches (two of which came with a sturdy vice) being left free gratis, but this time it's an empty shell. At least I can get my barge in there, so no complaints.
|
|
My Workmate is about 30 years old, used occasionally but still going strong. The fact that it's virtually unchanged speaks for itself. If it ain't broke don't fix it !
|
>> My Workmate is about 30 years old, used occasionally but still going strong. The fact
>> that it's virtually unchanged speaks for itself. If it ain't broke don't fix it !
Pretty much as above. Bought mine c1986. Last significant use was when laying laminate flooring in bedroom 3 but it comes out now and then if stuff needs sawing or whatever.
|
>> My Workmate is about 30 years old, used occasionally but still going strong. The fact
>> that it's virtually unchanged speaks for itself. If it ain't broke don't fix it !
>>
The earlier models had cast aluminium frames and were a lot lighter, and in my opinion better, than the later steel models. Still got my father's.
Last edited by: CGNorwich on Tue 21 Jul 20 at 15:07
|
>> The earlier models had cast aluminium frames and were a lot lighter, and in my
>> opinion better, than the later steel models.
I have an aluminium one plus two sets of B&D clamps and some B&D stops ( dogs?)
I have heard it said that jobbing builders tossed their benches in their van and snapped the frames so they produced steel framed versions.
I am more inclined to believe the aluminium ones were too expensive to produce and folks would not pay the price.
Wiki says
In 1972 Black & Decker's MKII version of the Workmate went into production.
When released, it was first sold in the United Kingdom for £24.95.
|
Normally with tools I used to only buy on quality. As my remaining life span decreases I now have compromised on quality in many cases.
My £10 workmates have survived abuse over the last 10 years.
Make sure you buy in pairs - much more useful when working or cutting long lengths.
If you frequent car boot sales you can sometimes find used, quality items for the £10 figure.
|
I have two BnD workmates, one I inherited cast aluminium one, and one I bought Steel type.
Finest DiY tool ever
|
I had one of the original ones for about 30 years until the catches became unreliable. I then bought a cheapie one from Screw Fix. It's not in the same league but does for light sawing and gripping. If I were using one a lot I would buy a heavy duty one.
In fact I slightly regret not doing so this time around.
|
>> www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B000LFXHO0/ref=dp_cerb_1
>>
>> Here you go Dunc.
>>
Unavailable - just when I was going to get stuck into some serious DIY!
|
>> One hundred and one pounds? How Much!!??
And some delivery charge...
|
I thought the recommendations here would favour Black & Decker, so have just ordered one.
Belated thanks to all.
|
Work Bench Recommendations - maltrap
