I've gone so far down the rabbit hole reading posts about various workbenches. So much good information out there, but now I'm in analysis paralysis mode and thought it might be easier to state what I think I want to build (and why) and let you all argue me in or out of those decisions. This feels very newbie of me, so I appreciate your patience and help on a topic that gets a lot of coverage.
Edit: In my case, my workbench gets used as a desk, a place to figure things out, joinery is done there, final assembly too. Lumber is staged here during milling steps. I sometimes apply finishes here too.
My current situation requires me to constantly move my work table away from the stairs if I want to access the back side. As a result, the table is on dual locking swivel casters which work nicely but I find constant locking and unlocking, and constant moving to be inefficient... and even when locked, there's a bit of "wiggle" and I wish for more stability.
My current situation allows for plenty of length on the table (about 6 feet long) but I'm restricted to a 30 inch wide space... I frequently find 30 inches to be just a little too narrow to accommodate certain projects.
Current table is maple butcher block from an old manufacturing plan. Looks marvelous, ain't that flat.
Current table height is fine, I don't find a burning need for adjustable height.
I currently have a really cheap vice on the end of the table, but honestly haven't been making the most of it (likely because it's not a great setup).
Note: I'm a mostly machine-based woodworker so far, but have begun dabbling in hand tools and think I'll end up using a bit of both long term. I mostly build furniture and starting to build some cabinets. A little box building.
--------------------
The new without-stairs space would allow me have the table be "permanent" while still allowing for me to work on all sides of the table. So I think I'm going to skip casters this time and just use dollies if I ever have a need to move it in the future. Am I going to greatly regret this decision?
For the base of the table I was thinking of purchasing some used cabinets (Habitat Restore or similar) and modifying / adding strength as needed. Figured this would get me back to working sooner and provide lots of storage. Any qualms with this approach?
From my research so far it seems the most commonly accepted way to achieve a flatter top is to build a torsion box top. Is that what you'd recommend here? Any specific tutorials that you've found to be especially helpful on this topic?
I'll also have enough space to make the table a bit wider than the current 30 inches. I was thinking 36 inches might be about right... I fear going too wide (say 42 inches.. I have a table I'm building for a friend that measures 42 across and it seems enormous.. too big for a workbench it feels like). What do you think?
My research also tells me that the idea of the "dog holes" (I think that's the right term?) in conjunction with vices is a very handy way to hold work to the table or even to do certain glue/clamp ups. Any tutorials or articles on vices/dog holes that you think are especially valuable for a newbie like me to watch and copy? Also, the number of choices on vices is mind blowing. I'd love any recommendations on reasonable options that are SMC approved (and that I can grow into without getting a 2nd mortgage).
I currently have retractable extension cord and air hose above my table, and shop vac under the table. I was planning to stick with basically the same setup on the new table, but would gladly listen to any suggestions if there's a better way.
And, if there's anything I'm completely missing, please pile on :-)
Thanks in advance for any input!!! Much appreciated!!!