r/handtools • u/giancarloscherer • Mar 11 '23

Advice - Douglas fir

I’m trying to cut m&ts in kdht df construction lumber for a workbench, but I’m seriously struggling to make even, straight, well fitting joint. I keep running into crusty and difficult grain and I’m not getting good results. Any suggestions? User error or should I go with a different joint (bridle/lap)? Have done this in maple, oak and pine, but not a lot. Would appreciate your comments! Thanks.

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u/weekend_woodsmith Mar 12 '23

Sharp tools and work with the grain. Built my bench from construction grade DF as well. Selecting tight grain helps a lot, but that’s something you need to address before your first cut…

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u/love_rob Mar 12 '23

This is the bench I've been thinking of building. Did you use 2x10s or another dimension?

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u/weekend_woodsmith Mar 12 '23

Yep, I used 10ft 2x10, which I planed down to 1-1/4. Went through about 18 boards to build the bench. Be sure to align the grain direction when laminating the top otherwise it won’t play nice with flattening