Bench question for those with a MDF top

oldreloader · August 26, 2009, 08:25 PM

Does the MDF chip,flake,or round the edges off of the front edge?

Jeff H · August 26, 2009, 08:38 PM

MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) is much like regular cabinet grade particle board but a little softer. If you beat the edges, they will crumble eventually, but for most people, MDF will do about as nicely as Particle board or plywood.

1/2 " MDF backed by 2x lumber would make a fine bench.

My main workbench is an old Solid core door that is strong as heck made up of oak and oak veneers. The edges can still take a beating depending on what you are doing.

I have no direct exp with using it on a reloading bench. Just speaking from years as a carpenter/cabinet maker.

Inspector3711 · August 26, 2009, 08:53 PM

This is why when I got my free kitchen cabinets for the garage/reloading room I promptly removed the countertops. I bolted down 6 2X4's and screwed on a 1" thick piece of birch plywood on top. Then I trimmed the edge in maple baseboard molding. I left one area open in the middle. I installed a 1/2" aluminum plate on top and another underneath (in the dishwasher area) right there. That's where I mounted the bench vise, a single stage press, and my progressive. But then I usually overbuild. You could park a car on my deck

If you're going to use MDF just trim the edge with some hardwood molding.

August 26, 2009, 08:25 PM	#1
oldreloader Senior Member Join Date: May 31, 2009 Location: Magnolia, Arkansas Posts: 251	Bench question for those with a MDF top Does the MDF chip,flake,or round the edges off of the front edge?

August 26, 2009, 08:53 PM	#3
Inspector3711 Senior Member Join Date: February 9, 2008 Location: Puget Sound Washington Posts: 1,553	This is why when I got my free kitchen cabinets for the garage/reloading room I promptly removed the countertops. I bolted down 6 2X4's and screwed on a 1" thick piece of birch plywood on top. Then I trimmed the edge in maple baseboard molding. I left one area open in the middle. I installed a 1/2" aluminum plate on top and another underneath (in the dishwasher area) right there. That's where I mounted the bench vise, a single stage press, and my progressive. But then I usually overbuild. You could park a car on my deck If you're going to use MDF just trim the edge with some hardwood molding. __________________ "If someone has a gun and is trying to kill you, it would be reasonable to shoot back with your own gun." The Dalai Llama (5/15/01, The Seattle Times) "That rifle on the wall of the labourer's cottage or working class flat is the symbol of democracy. It is our job to see that it stays there." George Orwell

August 26, 2009, 08:38 PM	#2
Jeff H Senior Member Join Date: August 20, 2009 Posts: 176	MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) is much like regular cabinet grade particle board but a little softer. If you beat the edges, they will crumble eventually, but for most people, MDF will do about as nicely as Particle board or plywood. 1/2 " MDF backed by 2x lumber would make a fine bench. My main workbench is an old Solid core door that is strong as heck made up of oak and oak veneers. The edges can still take a beating depending on what you are doing. I have no direct exp with using it on a reloading bench. Just speaking from years as a carpenter/cabinet maker.