Building a reloading bench... Need info

[thebaron]

I decided that I am going to build my reloading bench tonight and need a bit of info/input.

What height would be optimal? (I am 5'10'')
What dimentions do you suggest would be optimal?

Any other suggestions?

Thanks.

 

[tiriaq]

Do you work sitting or standing? I prefer to sit while loading, and find an old commercial desk satisfactory. A rule of thumb for a standing workbench is that the top of your vice should be about at elbow level so you don't have to stoop. Doesn't address loading, but the same principal should apply. Don't know if it is still there, but there was an interesting looking set of plans for a free standing loading cupboard at 3w.ray-vin.com

 

[thebaron]

I will be sitting. I was thinking of getting a cheap computer chair so I can move around easily.

 

[tiriaq]

Good idea. I have an office chair on castors, and it works nicely.

 

[Icon]

Have you tried googling Reloading bench? I did a while ago and got lots of great ideas.

 

[Westicle]

http://www.dennymac.com/bench/

 

[Scar270]

Whatever you build make it bigger then you need, trust me you will need the room soon. I went from a 2 foot bench to a 6 foot bench, and now my 6 foot bench has a RCBS Rockchucker, RCBS Pro 2000 and two MEC presses, 10 Gauge and 410 Progressive all fighting for space, not to mention trimmer, case prep center, scales, measures.... Trust me, make it BIG.

 

[thebaron]

Well,

I decided to make it the following dimentions:

2.5 feet high x 2.5 feet deep x 4 feet wide

I will have a back on it with shelves for various items and possibly a shelf under the bench as well but this will be done at a later time.

 

[enfield p]

reloading bench

i went to crappy tire and bought abench there for , $59.00 , on sale , has 2 drawers , bottom shelf, back peg board for tools , ashelf up top or i can put up a light

 

[tootall]

Also, make it sturdy.
You put a lot of force into the mount when you are sizing brass. the edge of the table will flex if it is not strong enough.

One thing I have been wondering, and have never seen addressed. If you are loading on a dry winter day, there is the possbility of a static spark. Does anyone have their press grounded? I am thinking of running a small wire from my presses down to steel bar driven into the ground, or water pipes, if I have them nearby.

 

[Bangup]

Go to a good used office furniture store and you will find lots of sturdy office and lab furniture for less than $100.00, that you can use for your reloading set up.