Bench Hook Maintenance and Care
Bench Hook Maintenance and Care |
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A bench hook is likely to suffer regular damage. As well as being an aid to holding wood in position when cutting it, the bench hook also protects the top of the workbench.
As it takes more and more punishment from saws, planes or chisels, some parts may need replacing. |
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Replacing parts |
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You may need to replace the base, the stop or the hook. Usually, most damage is caused by saws to the base. | |||
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Buying a bench hook which has its stop and hook screwed in position, but not glued, means you will find it easier to replace parts, which you may be able to cut from pieces of waste stock.
Ensure you fit the hook and stop parallel to each other and perpendicular to the base. Keep everything as square and accurate as you can. |
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Using dowels in the replacement parts makes the task more complicated, although it is still quite achievable for a woodworker of average ability. Removing glued pieces might result in splitting a part or parts. | |||
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Storing |
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To store your bench hook, one approach is to drill a hole in the base and hang it on a wall near your workbench where it can be quickly located.
If you prefer not to drill a hole in your bench hook, keep it on the shelf underneath your workbench so it’s always close to hand. Try to keep it dry and cool and away from bright sunlight to avoid warping. |
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