Benchcrafted Split Top Roubo Bench Maker's Package
The Bench Maker's Package includes the detailed measured drawings for building the Benchcrafted design Split Top Roubo bench, plus the Tail Vise and Glide Leg Vise as well as all necessary assembly hardware (everything you need except the wood).
Full construction notes for the bench & instructions for installing all vises can be downloaded(PDF) at the bottom of the page.
Tail Vise
The Tail Vise is the original flagship of the award-winning Benchcrafted line of workbench hardware. Besides being extremely robust with absolutely precise machining, the original tail vise's real claim to fame lies in its incredibly smooth and effortless operation. Apply a modest spin to the handle and marvel as the vise action first accelerates and then slowly coasts to a stop. This is the way every tool should feel in response to a craftsman's touch. It uses a 5" cast iron handwheel with a wooden knob.
Now, Benchcrafted offers the Classic version of their tail vise. It has the same smooth operation of the original tail vise, but has a 9" steel sliding handle assembly with a black “Parkerized” finish (like on the Classic leg vise). It makes it easier to torque down on the vise, but you won't be able to do that fun spinning thing.
Leg Vises
All Benchcrafted leg vises use roll threaded steel acme screws with a 4 tpi pitch and a one piece acme nut milled from cold-rolled steel. The vises generate about 1/2" of vise movement per handle revolution.
The Glide Leg Vise has an 8" cast iron handwheel with three knobs.
The Classic Leg Vise has a steel 15" sliding handle assembly. It has a black "Parkerized" finish.
Crisscross Mechanism
The Crisscross mechanism helps support the weight of the chop (the front leg jaw that moves). It eliminates the need for a parallel guide and helps the leg vise move smoothly throughout its range.
Benchcrafted Crisscross hardware comes three versions.
- The Solo Crisscross mechanism is for installation in new bench construction. It is made from cast iron and powder coated in a matte black finish.
- The Retro Crisscross mechanism is almost the same as the Solo version, but includes mounting brackets which make it easier to install when retrofitting an existing bench. The Retro can be used on new benches and is actually easier to install. It is made from cast iron and powder coated in a matte black finish.
- The Crisscross 14 is a smaller version of the Solo Crisscross mechanism for use on benches shorter than 30". The mortise required is only 14-1/4" long - compared to 19-1/2" for the Solo & Retro. It is made from cold rolled steel. It can be used on taller benches, but is optimized for benches with a front vise jaw (the chop) that is under 30" in length.
Which Crisscross should you choose? — If you can put your bench leg on a drill press to drill the mounting hole, get the Solo. If not, get the Retro.
Handwheels
Benchcrafted offers two options for the handwheels of the Glide Leg Vise and Tail Vise. Both are completely designed and manufactured in the USA.
- Polished — Machined and polished cast iron handwheels have aluminum knobs with a black wrinkle finish.
- Cast — Retro-look rough iron handwheels have aluminum knobs with a black wrinkle finish.
Packages Include:
- Leg Vise with Crisscross Mechanism
- Tail Vise
- Hardware Pack
- Set of Four Barrel Bolts
- Set of Two End Cap Barrel Bolts
- Four Spax Lag Screws
- Printed Plans
- The Benchmaker's Package DOES NOT include the wooden part of the bench or any of the wood required to make the wooden part of the bench.
Additional Information
M or C Tail Vise installation instructions. PDF
Classic Tail Vise installation instructions. PDF
Benchcrafted Glide M or Glide C Vise with Solo or Retro Crisscross Installation Instructions. PDF
Benchcrafted Glide M or Glide C Vise with Crisscross 14 Installation Instructions. PDF
Benchcrafted Classic Leg Vise Installation Instructions. PDF
Full construction notes for building the bench. PDF