I used heavy duty brackets made by Simpson Strong Tie which are available at Home Depot.These brackets are pre-drilled with holes allowing them to be screwed into place. The brackets are sized to fit standard 2x4 lumber.
I used a 90 degree bracket that forms a horizontally oriented 90 degree /right angle corner using 2x4 lumber.The same bracket is also designed to incorporate a 2x4 member for a vertical support.No special cuts are needed as the brackets only need straight cut lumber.
I bought 8 of these brackets, 4 were used to form the top and the other 4 formed a lower shelf. A sheet of 3/4 inch plywood doubled up was used for the top and a lower shelf. I allowed for some overhang on the front edge of the top pieces.
Everything can be screwed together, no glue is needed. Even better as the whole thing can be dis-assembled and relocated if needed.
Some brackets, 2x4 lumber, plywwod , robertson srews and a morning or afternoon's worth of time and you'll have a finished bench strong enough to place a cow on top of. Total cost is very reasonable when compared to other ready made benches,
Good luck- fortuna
