Black & Decker Workmate

While still a handy tool to have around the house, it is not as heavy as the originals that had cast aluminum braces. Parts were missing in shipping due to the way B&D throws the parts into a flimsy box. But on a positive note, B&D support was great and they promptly sent the missing parts. This is worth having for the price, but I was sorry to see my old Workmate go.

B&D ergonomic intelligence at it's best

Although it's a stamped aluminum frame, the unit maintains its structural integrity with ease under duress. B&D obviously put some time into the design of this unit as the frame doubles as built in handles when the unit folds. SPeaking of folding the unit, it's just logical brilliance. THe unit folds in two layers, one at the legs and the other at the frame. THis makes it ultra portable. The clamping mechanism is very smooth, though I fear the polyvinyl or polycarbonate blocks used to mount the vise jaw may give way over time. However, it has a two year warranty, and for $50.00, you can't ask for more. THose rating lower need to consider the competition, not what they'd like to see. Great product.

Wow...what a disappointment!!

I have always wanted one of these since they look so useful. When I got it, I was really disappointed. The metal edges are razor sharp...even the cheap plastic parts have sharp edges. Assembly instruction is poorly written with pictures so tiny that they are pretty much useless. Then when I tried to clamp a project (a 14" X 12" board), there is no way to get it clamped down securely. The adjustment options were either too big or too small to get all 4 clamps on it! I tried using only 2 clamps, but it was impossible to secure it, and I did not want to tighten it too much fearing the cheap plastic handle might break off. Do not look at this as hardware; it is not. The material of this product is very cheap...and it will not last if you treat it like a tool.