How to Support Long Boards in a Workbench Vise
Clamping a long board in a workbench vise is easy enough. The challenge comes when you need to work along its edge. Whether you're hand planing, sanding, or fitting joinery, the unsupported end of the board can sag or move as you work.
Traditional woodworking benches often solve this problem with a built-in board jack. But you don't need a specialized workbench to get the same support.
This simple, portable board jack provides an adjustable support for long boards held in a face vise. It's easy to build from a few pieces of wood and common hardware, and you can use it with just about any sturdy workbench.
In the video below, we'll show you how a traditional board jack works and how to make a freestanding version for your own shop.
What Is a Workbench Board Jack?
A board jack is a workbench accessory designed to support the free end of a long workpiece held in a face vise.
On traditional woodworking benches, a board jack often slides along the front of the bench. A removable peg fits into one of several holes to support the board at the desired height.
This provides support at two points: The face vise grips one end of the workpiece, while the board jack supports the opposite end.
The result is a more stable setup for working along the edge of a long board.
A board jack is especially useful when hand planing edges, cleaning up joinery, or sanding long workpieces.
Make a Portable Board Jack for Any Workbench
While a built-in board jack is convenient, it isn't practical to add one to every workbench.
A freestanding board jack offers a simple alternative.
This shop-made version consists of three main parts: a base, an upright, and an adjustable support platform.
The base keeps the accessory standing upright, while the vertical post provides a guide for adjusting the height of the platform.
A carriage bolt and plastic knob lock the platform at the desired position.
The entire assembly can be moved wherever you need it, making it a versatile addition to your workholding setup.
Build the Base and Upright
Start with a sturdy base that provides a stable foundation for the board jack.
The upright is made by gluing a spacer between two narrow pieces of wood. The spacer creates a long vertical slot through the center of the assembly.
This slot allows the support platform to slide up or down to match the height of the workpiece.
Keep the upright straight and square to the base so the support platform remains properly aligned.
Add the Adjustable Support Platform
The support platform provides a resting surface for the end of the board.
A carriage bolt passes through the slot in the upright and connects the platform to the adjustment mechanism.
A plastic knob threads onto the bolt, allowing the platform to be locked securely at any position along the slot.
Loosen the knob to raise or lower the platform, then tighten it to hold the support in place.
This simple arrangement makes the board jack quick to adjust for boards of different widths and working heights.
How to Use the Portable Board Jack
Using the board jack is straightforward.
First, clamp one end of your long board securely in the face vise of your workbench.
Position the portable board jack beneath the unsupported end of the workpiece.
Loosen the adjustment knob and slide the support platform upward until it contacts the bottom edge of the board.
Once the platform is at the correct height, tighten the knob to lock it in place.
The board is now supported at both ends, providing a more stable setup for working along its edge.
For longer workpieces, position the board jack near the free end of the board to reduce sagging and movement.
Why a Portable Board Jack Is So Handy
A portable board jack offers several advantages over relying on a face vise alone.
- Supports long workpieces. Keeps the free end of a board from sagging while you work along its edge.
- Adjusts to different heights. The sliding platform accommodates a variety of board widths.
- Works with existing benches. There's no need to modify your workbench or install a built-in board jack.
- Easy to move and store. The freestanding design can be positioned where it's needed and put away when you're finished.
- Simple to build. The basic design uses wood scraps, a carriage bolt, and a plastic knob.
It's especially useful for woodworkers who use hand planes and other hand tools, where keeping a workpiece steady makes a noticeable difference.
Better Workholding for Long Boards
A face vise is one of the most useful workholding features on a woodworking bench, but it can't always support a long board by itself.
Adding a board jack provides a second point of support, making edge planing, sanding, and other woodworking tasks easier and more controlled.
And with this portable version, you can enjoy the benefits of a traditional board jack without rebuilding or modifying your workbench.
It's a simple shop-made accessory that solves a common workholding problem and earns its place alongside your other woodworking jigs and fixtures.
More Ways to Get Better Workholding From Your Workbench
A board jack is just one way to make your workbench more versatile. Discover additional clamping techniques and shop-made accessories that help hold workpieces securely for planing, sanding, and assembly.
