Installing bench vise - tabletop thickness?

[ARCHIVED THREAD] - Installing bench vise - tabletop thickness?

Posted: 1/31/2021 1:56:00 PM EDT

How thick should a benchtop be for bolting a vise through it?

What I have is a homemade (by previous owner) workbench that is mostly 2x4s with a 3/4" plywood top. One of the bolts is going to have to go into a leg.

I'm planning on installing some FAL barrels/receivers, so 200 ft-lbs is probably going to be the expected demand.

Is this going to be strong enough or should I find some way to reinforce the benchtop?

Posted: 1/31/2021 1:59:56 PM EDT

[#1]

I always double up 3/4" subfloor with subfloor adhesive. 2x 12" on center. Probably overkill, but it's never failed me.

Posted: 1/31/2021 2:11:36 PM EDT

[#2]

3/4 is too light, yes reinforce it one way or another.

Double 3/4 would work.

Bolt it to 3/4 and try it you will see that is not strong enough.

Posted: 1/31/2021 2:33:54 PM EDT

[#3]

I have 2 layers of 3/4 inch plywood glued (with Sika Flex and screwed) and then re-enforced underneath with glued and screwed 2x4's that attach to the wood frame.

Better to over build and not need it than to have a flimsy set up

Posted: 1/31/2021 3:52:11 PM EDT

[#4]

Thanks all, I'll see what I can do.

Posted: 1/31/2021 8:42:40 PM EDT

[#5]

Quote History

Quoted:
I have 2 layers of 3/4 inch plywood glued (with Sika Flex and screwed) and then re-enforced underneath with glued and screwed 2x4's that attach to the wood frame.

Better to over build and not need it than to have a flimsy set up

View Quote

3/4 marine plywood, doubled, glued and screwed bolted to the wall studs, standing on 4x4's

[ARCHIVED THREAD] - Installing bench vise - tabletop thickness?

Armory » Gunsmithing

Win a FREE Membership!

Sign up for the ARFCOM weekly newsletter and be entered to win a free ARFCOM membership. One new winner* is announced every week!

You will receive an email every Friday morning featuring the latest chatter from the hottest topics, breaking news surrounding legislation, as well as exclusive deals only available to ARFCOM email subscribers.

Warning

Confirm Action

About AR15.COM

Stay Connected

Newsletter

Contact Us