Benchtop & Workholding · 8 min read
Bench dogs and workholding: laying out holes that actually line up
Bench dogs only work if the holes across the top and the vise line up on the same row. Here is a layout method and the spacing that suits most benches.
By SQUAREFORGE Shop Desk · Updated
Key takeaways
- Lay out dog holes on a single row that lines up with the vise's dog.
- 3/4 in. holes on 4-6 in. spacing suit most bench dogs and hold-downs.
- A story stick keeps hole spacing consistent across a long benchtop.
Why alignment matters more than hole count
A benchtop with dozens of holes is useless if none of them line up with the vise's dog. Start by locating the row nearest the vise, and let every other row reference off that one.
Laying out the holes
- Mark the vise-aligned row firstMeasure the vise dog's height and set the front row of holes to match it exactly.
- Make a story stickMark hole centers on a strip of scrap and use it to transfer identical spacing to every row.
- Drill squareUse a drill press or a doweling jig so every hole is perpendicular to the surface.
| Hole diameter | Typical spacing | Common use |
|---|---|---|
| 3/4 in. | 4-6 in. | Round bench dogs and hold-downs |
| 20 mm | 96 mm (metric system) | European-style dogs and clamps |
Dogs vs hold-downs
- Bench dogs pinch stock between a fixed and a moving point, good for edge work.
- Hold-downs clamp straight down onto the bench, good for routing and chiseling flat work.
- Quick-action clamps that fit the same holes add a third option for odd-shaped parts.
Workholding checklist
| Frequency | Tasks |
|---|---|
| Before glue-up | Dry-fit clamps and confirm reach and pressure points |
| During assembly | Check squareness under clamp pressure, not just before |
| Periodically | Inspect clamp pads and dog holes for wear |
/ Frequently asked
What size holes do most bench dogs use?+
3/4 in. is the most common size in the US; check your dog and hold-down before drilling.
Can I retrofit dog holes into an existing bench?+
Yes, as long as the top is thick enough for the dog to seat firmly, typically 1 1/2 in. or more.