I have a piece of laminated maple approximately 2 X 24 X 39.5" that a friend gave to me. The ends are split a little so I'm considering cutting them back. Got me thinking about the end piece I see on a lot of benches with the beautiful dovetailed face. What is the purpose of it? Doesn't it just make it more difficult when it comes time to re-plane the top? Should I include them?
Thanks
Dick Hutchings