Attn those with ply-topped benches

[RickCarpenter]

Do plywood-topped benches hold square bench dogs and holdfasts well or do the holes get wallowed out faster than 'real' wood? I want to build a narrow bench like that of Harry "Jr." Strasil over at traditionaltools.us (forums/workbench/building norm's bench...) with a layered ply top wrapped in hardwood, leg vises, and a Roubo crochet. I could always make the round and square holes out of hardwood laminations if I had to. I've already figured out how to make an extension for when the narrow top by itself just won't git it.

Rick

[scorrpio]

Depends on thickness of the top. 3 layers of quality 3/4" ply are going to be tough to 'wallow out'. If you want extra ensurance, you can always drill dog holes somewhat larger and install 3/4" ID pipe in them. 3/4" PVC conduit works well, or you can get some #5035 aluminum pipe from 80/20.