MFTC versus Paulk Workbench

[John1102]

Looking at a portable workbench option and wondered what experiences FOG members have with these two bench types.  My main needs are that the top remains flat over time and the workbench is mobile.

 

[gunnyr]

I have both and use them both.  I find that they complement each other.  If I had to choose one over the other I would say the Paulk Bench but only because it is bigger.  They really are two different benches.  I work out of a pick up so the Paulk is a little easier to manage getting it in and out of the truck. 

You might want to review this recent thread
http://festoolownersgroup.com/other-tools-accessories/mft-style-portable-table/msg557032

 

[David Fox]

I have made both of them. I like the portability of the MFTC. I like the expansiveness of the Paulk bench. Currently, the Paulk bench sits in my shop, but is easily taken out when needed. Otherwise I like the MFTC for out on the road work.

 

[sandy]

I purchased Tim's MFTC plans, and I built My Version of Tim's MFTC using somewhat different hardware, as I was unable to source everything that he used.  I also purchased Ron Paulk's plans, as I was going to build one of his benches.  I even went so far as to create the templates, but then I decided to build a folding bench somewhat similar to the one that Coach.carpenter had posted, although I found that his method for attaching the (single purpose) MFT-style top was too restrictive as well as too difficult to accurately cut.

I finally decided that while I liked the portability of folding benches, having built them for well over 30 years, I wanted something more versatile in terms of having multiple tops, particularly since I had built a precision router table top that included both a Rockler router lift and an Incra LS-17.  I came up with the design shown in  Portable, Folding Workbench With MFT, Router Table, and Other Tops using a much simpler top attachment design that provides a lot of versatility as well as the portability of an MFT/3 table without taking up much room in my SUV when I want to use it elsewhere.  As it folds flat, and is only about 2 1/2" thick without the top, I can bring the router top, the MFT top, and sheet breakdown tops while leaving lots of room for Sustainers, Vacuum, etc. in my SUV.