Bench dogs are used to hold timber securely on a workbench, MFT table or dog hole worktop while you plane, sand, route, cut, mark out or assemble a project. They fit into dog holes and help stop the workpiece from moving, giving you better control and more accurate results.
What is the difference between bench dogs and bench stops?
Bench dogs usually sit inside dog holes and act as removable holding points for timber, while bench stops create a fixed edge or repeatable stopping point. Bench stops are especially useful for repeat cuts, track saw work, layout work and holding timber in position without traditional clamps getting in the way.
What size bench dogs do I need?
Choose bench dogs that match the hole size in your workbench, MFT top or dog hole worktop. Many popular workholding systems use 20mm dog holes, and Hammer Roo’s range includes 20mm dogs, expanding dogs, guide dogs, revision dogs and other dog hole accessories. Always check your bench hole size and worktop thickness before choosing.
Are bench dogs useful with track saws and guide rails?
Yes. Bench dogs, fence and stop kits, and guide rail accessories are commonly used with track saw workstations to help improve accuracy, repeatability and workholding. They can help position your timber, align cuts and create a more efficient setup for cabinetry, furniture making, sheet goods and general woodworking.
What bench dogs and stops should I buy for my workbench?
For basic workholding, start with a set of bench dogs or anti-slip workbench protection dogs. For more accurate setups, consider fence and stop kits, cam and wedge clamps, workholding accessory kits or a Parf guide system. Hammer Roo stocks bench dogs and stops from brands including UJK, Bora Tool, Bow Products and Hongdui, with options for MFT tables, custom benches and mobile workstations.