Mike,
As I mentioned at lunch the other day, I am working on a version of the New Fangled Workbench from Fine Woodworking:
New-Fangled Workbench, Revisited - Fine Woodworking Video
I am not sure the final product will be "post worthy" or not.
I like the features on this bench because:
- the size is scaleable to whatever size you want/need
- doesn't use expensive materials, the design is made from dimensional lumber
- doesn't use expensive vises, it uses pipe clamps
- it has a 12" wide well in the middle for the pipe clamps, but it would work well for drop in router plates or other bench top power tools, the well is covered by 3/4" MDF
- it has a planing wedge in the front for edge work and an adjust planing beam
- it has a removeable and adjustable front vise made from pipe clamps
- the bench is assembled with 3/8" x 6" lag screws and 2 1/2" drywall screws, so assembly is quick, this would also making replacing parts on the bench easy
I too have limited space. I hope to put some "landing gear" on the bench so that I can move it to various places in my garage/shop and it still be a solid platform for working. When I saw the features of the bench, it seems to meet most of my needs.
Good luck on your bench quest. There are quite a few designs available.
Steve