Loading Bench recommendations?

[gnauenburg]

Guys,

I am really enjoying this forum. I was happy to stumble across this place. I have a question for you all. I need to build a new loading bench and I don't have a lot of room for it. I have a space indoors about 36" wide. I have decided that this is going to be where I build this bench. I am looking for suggestions about bench height.
Since it will be relatively small the only thing I worry about is stability. I am going to mount two presses on this bench. One in each of the front corners. I was planning on a depth of about 20" for the bench and I really would prefer to set it up so that I can stand comfortably when reloading. Construction will be 4x4 legs, 2x4 frame and a plywood top. There will be no overhang for the bench top. I don't believe that flex from the bench top will be an issue without any overhang.
Also, this room is carpeted. Do you guys have any suggestions about how to keep things safe with the possibility of powder spillage in a carpeted room. Thanks in advance for advice and contributions.

George

[swerv512]

concerning bench height- make sure it's low enough to read your scale. my bench is about 3ft from the floor and its a comfortable reach to everything on the desktop while sitting. if the bench is too high from the floor while in your normal position- whether it be sitting or standing- it wont be comfortable. about the carpet and accidental spills- vaccuum often.

[Dubious_Beans]

My RCBS rock chucker is mounted on a 38" high bench.
I think it's just a little too low. One of the problems is that when pushing the handle down it goes just a little too far down for comfort without leaning over a little bit. My arms aren't quite long enough I guess..

I'd prefer a 40 or 41 " high bench top.

I'm about 5' 10" tall FWIW...

[BigBronco]

Get a cheap carpet that you can lay o the floor over your carpet. Possibly cut it to fit throuht4x4 legs. Then you can roll it up and take it outside and shake it out. Perhaps some of that indoor out door stuff. Oh yeah get some bent straps and anchor it to the wall.

[RaymondMillbrae]

Hey shooter,

check out the reloading video below my signature. (RELOADING .223 VIDEO).

For a bench, I would recommend that you figure-out if you will be seated or standing. Once you figure that out, then set the height of the press HANDLE so that your lever arm is parallel to the ground for the best muscle usage, and the least amount of energy used.

Also, make the benchtop as thick as possible to reduce bowing or warpage after years of use. Then fasten the bench to the wall joists using large "L" brackets. (The more stable, the more consistent).

Just a few tips.

In Christ: Raymond

[gnauenburg]

Thanks everybody for the suggestions so far.

Raymond, thanks for the link to your video. I have set up a couple of different loading benches in the past when I had a garage to work with but never really thought about the shoulder height type of process. It does appear that would make everything a bit easier and more natural while standing.

BigBronco, that roll up carpet is a good suggestion. I have a piece of remnant carpet that will serve the job well. As far as powder on the floor goes I am a bit cautious about any of that getting into a vacuum. I don't want any explosions.

George

[jb7706]

To address your power spill concern you might try an office chair mat. Durable and easy to sweep up any messes.