Decided that I didn't have enough space for my gear in my reloading room: I've always cramped for workspace and storage areas. Our basement flooded and we needed to put in new flooring, so it was a perfect time to remodel/rethink my reloading space!
Before remodel, I had a single 48" bench for reloading, 36" desk (for work work) and a 48" fly tying bench (which I removed) for a total of 11' of work space and only a few linear feet of storage. With the new bench, I created one continuous work bench on two full walls for a total of 20' of work bench linear, plus two levels of storage for a total of 60' of workbench and storage. Used 12' 2x4's and 3/4" Plywood (pre-sanded). I will put details on how to duplicate my method below for those interested.
I used the simple hanger+mirror method to build the bench in about 6 hours total work but that includes relocating and organizing gear. Here are a few highlights and photos. Features I designed into space when building:
Workstation and reloading area on right; allows me to look up load data, netflix, log measurments, etc, while without moving back and forth between areas.
Gunsmithing/cleaning area: dedicated tool areas and ample length for cleaning long rifles.
Powder/Bullet/Brass Storage: extra lighting and plenty of storage. Will be adding a grid of 8"x 8" x 8" storage cubbys for specific calibers and bullets later.
HAT RACK! Best idea I've had in a while:
To build this Bench the fast way:
Before remodel, I had a single 48" bench for reloading, 36" desk (for work work) and a 48" fly tying bench (which I removed) for a total of 11' of work space and only a few linear feet of storage. With the new bench, I created one continuous work bench on two full walls for a total of 20' of work bench linear, plus two levels of storage for a total of 60' of workbench and storage. Used 12' 2x4's and 3/4" Plywood (pre-sanded). I will put details on how to duplicate my method below for those interested.
I used the simple hanger+mirror method to build the bench in about 6 hours total work but that includes relocating and organizing gear. Here are a few highlights and photos. Features I designed into space when building:
- Split location computer monitors for work and reloading data.
- Separate areas for Reloading, Gunsmithing/cleaning, Brass Bullet Storage
- Additional lights for detail work
- Cleaning Rod Storage hanger
- Hat Rack! Finally
Workstation and reloading area on right; allows me to look up load data, netflix, log measurments, etc, while without moving back and forth between areas.
Gunsmithing/cleaning area: dedicated tool areas and ample length for cleaning long rifles.
Powder/Bullet/Brass Storage: extra lighting and plenty of storage. Will be adding a grid of 8"x 8" x 8" storage cubbys for specific calibers and bullets later.
HAT RACK! Best idea I've had in a while:
To build this Bench the fast way:
- Screw 2x4's level and flat lengthwise at proper heights desired finished height of your levels less the thickness of working surface material. Mine is 39 3/4" total tall and second level is 20 3/4"
- Cut a set of 2x4s to match those mounted to the wall and use only two screws to tack mount directly to first set of 2x4's
- Cut and place upright supports at the desired widths and screw them to the outside 2x4 only (be sure you are using 2.5" screws or less)
- Remove the tack screws from step #2 and you have a mirrored/square support!
- Place your surface material on the back hanger and pull your support beams out to the depth you want and Viola! you have a work bench.
- If you have very heavy areas, you can add cross supports but I didn't find them necessary.
- 2x4 or other random board, plus a bunch of extra brass (I used 223 Rem)
- Find drill bit that is *Slightly* larger than OD of your brass. Use test board to ensure snug fit if needed.
- Drill holes 1/2" deep at 6" spacing using a slight angle (I used about 25 deg off perpendicular)
- press and lightly tap brass into place with glue of your choice. Done~!
