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I'm slightly miffed at your bench in the sense that you didn't scrimp on the hardware whatsoever, you've got about $800 worth of hardware, and then you're using plywood layers for the top...
There's a few reasons for that.
1- I've got $800 worth of hardware in the bench already
. Actually it's more like $1600
including the Noden legs, casters, and 1-rail brackets. Best guestimate on hardwood available around here would have been another $500.
2- I want to get this done quick. I think by the time I milled up hardwood I'd run the risk of cold temps and glue problems. I'll need to have the bench top built and everything assembled before cold weather makes me park a vehicle in the shop.
3- It will reside in an unheated, uninsulated garage shop with big swings in temp and humidity through the year. I think the ply core stands a better chance stability-wise in that environment.
4- I actually think the edge up ply veneers on Sams bench looks cool although I realize it aint for everybody, and it's certainly not traditional (but then neither am I).
5- The ply top investment wont cause me all that much pain if I decide in a few years that I hate it, need to re-design it, want to change to hardwood, etc. I wont kick myself as hard if I decide it needs to be pitched and redone.
6- I get to stymie true Neanders