Building a reloading bench - ideal height?

[Whiterabbit]

36" for the average height person. No shorter if you are shorter because you may end up sitting in front of it as well as stand. Remember, when the press is dismounted, it's a workbench.

If you are taller than average, start adding inches for every inch you are above average. maybe up to 40 or so.

I am 6'3", my benches are about 37" and they are too short. I should have built them maybe 39".

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No matter what unless your bench is built far too tall to do any good, if you reload standing up you'll want to build yourself a riser.

[Lead Waster]

For a normal workbench, counter, desk, etc, I believe the most ergonomic way is to have whatever you are working at at around elbow height or a touch below. With the press, remember you'll be grabbing bullets off the counter (or tray) as well as operating the handle. There are ergo handles that change things as well.

I have two 550bs with "ergo" roller handles. One is the Dillon handle, and one is the Inline Fabrication one. The inline fabrication one has a deep bend in it, which means you have to push the handle farther BUT also, you don't have to move it so low. Works good for standing.

I prefer to stand so I can sort of lean over the press to look into the bullet seating stage to make sure there is powder in there.

If you're in a garage with exposed 2x4's, consider maybe making a reloading shelf, fixed to the 2x4s. Certainly sturdy and if you need to move the height, it's easier than making a new work bench.

Maybe what you should do is mount your press on a piece of wood and try clamping it to your kitchen counter, table, etc just to get a feel for what height works for you?