How to choose a bench hook?
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No frills
If you only want to use the table hook for basic cuts, then a straight hook is the way to go.Left or right?
Make sure you get one that suits your dominant hand - either a right or left press hook.A reversible bench hook that fits your dominant hand on both ends is the most suitable as it can be rotated if one end is worn or damaged.
If the bench hook will be used by more than one person and they have different leading hands, then the best choice is one that is both left and right at both ends.Hardwoods wear better
A hardwood bench hook made from beech or oak will wear better than softwood.The flat truth about subbases
If you want to use a workbench hook for planing, then a workbench hook with a base is best, as it provides protection to the top of the workbench when planing edges with the flat on the side.
All of the above types of locksmith hooks could be used for planing small workpieces along the fibers and chiselling.If you plan to trim the miters. . .
If you want to cut at an angle and don't have a miter box or miter saw, a bench hook with a miter cut in the stop might come in handy.Performing a reverse
If you are using saws that cut in reverse, a bench hook with the stop back from the front end of the base is most suitable, as the wood being cut may be on the far side of the stop,You may need more than one
You may not find all the features you want in one bench hook, so you may need more than one, or perhaps one bench hook and a miter box or miter saw.You may want to leave it only for delicate work so that it is always virtually undamaged.
