The Perfect Workbench

Not possible, every workbench has limitations. benches are like any successful routine you apply in your workspace. Stick with any proven routine for long enough and you'll get used to it and be highly productive. Sharpening, dovetailing, finishing etc. If your eye is easily turned by the next method for a perfect finish, the longest lasting edge, the fastest cutting stone you'll have an interesting and ongoing research project or perhaps even a dog chasing it's tail, depending on your perspective.

If you're a hobbyist doing this purely for fun, why not experiment! The joy of learning about old, classic designs is as valid as anything else you might choose to spend your time doing.

All workbenches, vices, planing stops etc have been used in different countries and by different cultures through the centuries with all kinds of variations. It's likely when you start out, you'll be guided by an experienced woodworker and follow their methods. Doubtless you'll tweak things as you go and your finished bench will be a slight variation.

I can strongly recommend the classic British style bench. People think that the deep aprons get in the way of clamping. They don't. People are confused how work is secured to the top because there are no holdfasts or tail vice. It's not a problem. It's assumed the tool tray gets in the way. It doesn't. But, don't feel that it's supposed to be the one for you. I'll always be an advocate for it, but I won't be a zealot, there are too many other proven designs for that hyperbole.

Here’s a few photos of a bench we made at work a while back, it’s great for compact shops and easy to make too. The top is a bit flashy due to it being made of beech, a good softwood would work just as well. I’d happily work with this design forever, even though it has elements I don’t favour.