BLACK+DECKER Workmate Plus, Work Bench Tool Stand Saw Horse , Dual Height with Heavy Duty Steel Frame, WM825
BLACK+DECKER WM825 Workmate Dual Height Tough Workbench
The BLACK+DECKER WM825 Workmate Deluxe Workbench has been designed with keen DIYers and their limitless projects in mind. The Workmate allows you to fix the piece you are working on, to the workbench, so that you can work on it with both hands without the risk of it moving during the application.
Thanks to the ideal solution of dual height, the tool can be used as a workbench, bench tool stand, vice or sawhorse, giving you the ability to work on a number of various projects. Dual clamping cranks and adjustable swivel pegs increase clamping force and offer versatility.
It has been designed for easy set up and clean up and thanks to enhanced one-handed clamp system it allows clamps to be adjusted together or independently. Its heavyweight construction allows support of up to 250 kg. Front jaw swings up for vertical clamping, increasing flexibility to clamp odd-shaped objects.
Durable steel frame construction makes the workbench robust and sturdy. In addition, workbench legs have rubber, anti-slip feet fitted to avoid any risk of slippage when force is applied during the application.
The frame of this workbench easily folds for compact storage and easy transport.
Overview
- Working heights: 800/620 mm
- Folded size: 830 x 740 x 200 mm (W x H x D)
- Vice jaw opening: 0 – 205 mm
- Maximum load: 250 kg
- Vertical clamping
- Three vice positions
- One-handed operation
 |  |  |  | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dual Working Heights | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Folded size (W x H x D) | 63 x 89 x 13 cm | 61 x 74 x 19.5 cm | 74.2 x 74 x 20 cm | 83 x 74 x 20 cm |
| Vice Jaw Opening | 0-11.5 cm | 0-13.6 cm | 0-13.6 cm | 0-20.5 cm |
| Vice Jaw Length | 61 cm | 61 cm | 74 cm | 74 cm |
| Max Table Width – Jaws Open | 34.1cm | 38.4 cm | 38.4 cm | 54.1 cm |
| Vice Jaw Positions | 0 | 1 | 1 | 3 |
| Maximum Load | 160 kg | 250 kg | 250 kg | 250 kg |
| One Handed Operation | No | No | No | Yes |
| Fully Assembled | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Vice Jaw Material | Compressed Bamboo | Particle Board | Particle Board | Particle Board |
| Weight: | 14.6 kg |
| Dimensions: | 83 x 74 x 20 cm; 14.55 Kilograms |
| Model: | WM825-XJ |
| Part: | WM825 |
| Colour: | Black/ Brown |
| Pack Quantity: | 1 |
| Batteries Required: | No |
| Batteries Included: | No |
| Manufacture: | Stanley Black & Decker |
| Colour: | Black/ Brown |
| Quantity: | 1 |
FIDDLY TO SET UP
Solidly built and sturdy, this Workmate is nicely finished and a versatile aid for all those projects requiring a ‘second pair of hands.’ However the instructions for setting up could be better, as construction proved to be fiddly and long-winded.
Workmate
Soon as box was opened. You could see the product has a large scratch along the top. Not sure what happened to quality control? Returned for refund.
Good DIY workbench
Once assembled this is an impressive workbench. (The instructions are confusing, so recommend you view a YouTube video instead). The quality isn’t up to the standards of earlier models but good enough for my needs as an occasional DIYer. It lacks a lower shelf, so I’ve cut a piece of plywood which fits nicely in place. The day after I ordered it Amazon reduced the price by 10 – GReat!! Overall a good product with minor niggles.
It's the helping hand you need
Strong and stable a quality well known name you can trus
Solid portable and versatile bench
The instruction manual for assembly is poor but here are plenty of videos on the internet to help.
Otherwise, a great portable bench!
Sturdy, easy to put together.
I bought this BLACK+DECKER Workmate and once it was opened, just sat down and carefully studied the instructions. From then on, no problems at all. I thought it was easy to put together. It’s very sturdy. I put my full weight on it by pressing down on it. The thing didn’t move and it comes with rubber feet as well. Good purchase.
Great lightweight work table
This table has to be built, clear instructions make this a straightforward task, folds away nicely for storage.
The product itself is great. However the instructions are worse than useless. Look at YouTube. A video there explains and shows what’s necessary. However one problem is that the pins to secure the handles are too large to fit in. Solution was to buy a pack of split pins from Amazon. Worked great. Now have 108 spare pins. Marvellous.
Arrived promptly. All parts are included, but you will need a small/normal hamer for tapping two dowls (pegs) in handles. Does all that you expect, however, I found the insstruction booklet for assmbley simply awful. No matter what I done, I cou;d not fathom it out. So what I done was to go to the Black & Decker you tube video on the assmbly and, hepresto! Easy when you know how! Aslo, the setting up to full standing – to dropping down for storage, was at first awkward/fiddly, but now after a few goes – easy peasy. Should have bought this years ago.
Firstly not sure why people are saying its difficult to assemble, there’s a 2.59 minute long video on Youtube, watch it, it takes little more time to assemble, probably longer to get it out of the box! In was slightly deterred in making my purchase because of these reviews, I probably should have watched the video before buying, which would have given me the confidence to place the order more quickly. The product is as expected, seems sturdy and will hopefully last this newby female DIYer a lifetime. I purchased it purely as a way of holding timber when I need to cut it. I’m hoping I can find an array of other uses for it too, time will tell.
A great work bench
A great value work bench.
It’s tricky to put together as the instructions don’t call out which way up the black plastic blocks that you use to attach the wood bits to the metal legs so I struggled until I watched a YouTube video on how to use them. Basically it’s the opposite of what you’re naturally going to think is the right way up.
Other then bad instructions it’s a great product & fantastic value for a DIYer.
The bench itself is not bad, but the instructions are absolutely terrible. I didn’t realise it would not come assembled and I needed to get to work right away… instead spent a frustrating hour trying understand how to put this thing together. I had to find a youtube video at the end as I just couldn’t understand what to do. This should be just a simple thing. Not happy.
Bought this ‘self assembly’ item to cheer myself up after a dreadful row with my wife.
3 days later it still hadn’t assembled itself.
To be honest, I was very disappointed.
Imagine my surprise when I got home on day 4 and it had indeed assembled itself !
Amazing! Or so I thought…
Until my wife came home from her origami class ( clutching a glossy green paper frog ) and said ‘by the way I assembled your work bench for you’
We had a jolly good laugh, and fell into each other’s arms in a loving embrace!
Thank you Black & Decker !
instructions are useless
here’s a lovely woman on youtube who has a video on how to actually assemble this because the instructions are verbal diarrhea, otherwise pretty good, the belt for the combined handles is crap and unseats itself constantly
So long as you know what you’re getting, this is an excellent piece of kit. Black and Decker have clearly built this down to a (very cheap) price but they have done it well. The packaging of all the components is exceptional, making assembly simple and straightforward. You don’t have to spend ages looking for bits in a mountain of other bits because each set of bits is in its own bag. It is not heavy duty anything but if your looking for a lightweight workbench for occasional use, that is easy to assemble and that folds away easily, and doesn’t cost much, you could do a lot worse than. If you’re starting out on simple household DIY, this would make an ideal first workbench.
A couple of fixing screws are plastic
Before I purchased this, I knew the instructions were terrible. The fixings are cheap and a couple of fixing screws are plastic and do not hold. So I have to get fixings with metal screws for both sides.
Otherwise for the money this is good
Work bench arrived on time and was good value at 18.
Seems steady to use and easy to adjust once you’ve managed to build it. It also folds up easily and doesn’t take much space up in the shed.
It’s not too difficult to build but the instructions are not very clear. My main issue was the small metal dowels that attach the handles wouldn’t fit thru no matter how much I hammered them. I’ve made do for now with pushing 2 nails thru and bending them to hold them in place. A thin screw with nut would be a better method than the dowels (and my temporary bodge!)
Overall I’m happy with the purchase at the price paid.
For £18 it's grea
It des what you expect and build quality is fine. It does not quite line up and you may have to mess a bit building it.
It is stable enough and I suppose better than a budget sawhourse.
So expect a budget thing and you will be happy. If you wanted something substantial pay the extra for the big brother or look elsewhere.
How didn’t I manage without one
Simple to put together and once complete I don’t know why I sued to struggle on without one, makes all those DIY jobs so much easier and the price was great , well impressed
Not like they used to build them, but it is what it says and does the job
I bought “BLACK+DECKER Workmate Plus, Work Bench Tool Stand Saw Horse , Dual Height with Heavy Duty” to replace my 30+ year old Black and Decker workmate. They aren’t as sturdy as the old one but it does the job. I went for this one with the flip up front as it should at some point save me from having to use separate clamps
Value for money
I haven’t had a chance to road test this yet but it all seems reasonable quality for the price and I’m sure it will do the job. With all these things the amount of use I give it will tell. Back and Decker is usually a fairly safe medium use bet. If my last workmate was anything to go by I’ll be more than happy.
Product Quality
I purchased two of these Workmates at the beginning of December 2021. If you look at the photographs you will see the wear and tear damage to one of them after only a few uses. I use these for DIY. This broken belt is the one that connects the two handles that allows the vice to close evenly while operating either handle. It now does not work on this item and I expect it to fail on the second workmate. Tut tut Black and Decker. The belt is so inferior to requirements that it is a useless feature to have on this product if it is destined to fail, which I believe it will, on any of them given my experience and what I can see. This is a real headache for the consumer and the retailer. I have a Black and Decker Workmate that is over 30 years old and still going strong. I now wonder how long are these destined to last.
Fantastic workbench, but crap build instructions
Awesome piece of kit, necessary for and work on the house, and this one having the larger work surface and angle adjustable top plate, that is very handy. It’s sturdy just like all black & Decker Workmates. Wouldn’t be without one.
The only downside are the build instructions, they are awful. Honestly who was responsible for such rubbish.. they need a word with themselves. To create knock those build seps together and leave work thinking they’ve just done a brilliant job the mind boggles, and worse no one at black and decker noticed how bad they were.
But, luckily there are some very handy YouTube videos available from people that have assembled this model and you’ll have it assembled in minutes. Apart from that, it’s an essential piece of kit.
Just so you know though. Compacted or setup, it is noticeably bigger than the standard workmate.
Always useful
I love workmates and actually have three of my own. Multiple workmates just increases what you can do. But this one was bought as a gift for a friend. It came needing more assembly than any of mine and still with the pain in the backside handle mounting. But it’s still a classic and versatile bench that will last for years to come. It’s the basic one height model which I personally prefer because it’s quick to set up and put away in comparison to the dual height version. It takes up less room in storage and because of this it is more likely to be used in hurry. My friend is happy with it. Who wouldn’t be
Always useful
I love workmates and actually have three of my own. Multiple workmates just increases what you can do. But this one was bought as a gift for a friend. It came needing more assembly than any of mine and still with the pain in the backside handle mounting. But it’s still a classic and versatile bench that will last for years to come. It’s the basic one height model which I personally prefer because it’s quick to set up and put away in comparison to the dual height version. It takes up less room in storage and because of this it is more likely to be used in hurry. My friend is happy with it. Who wouldn’t be
Not quite five stars
Although it’s a black and decker kit the instructions could be better on how to assemble
For instance there is a part you have to use to tighten the nuts up with but it doesn’t tell you that and fitting the worktop it give the plastic runners information but they show the wrong way up
Could be bette
Not quite five stars
Although it’s a black and decker kit the instructions could be better on how to assemble
For instance there is a part you have to use to tighten the nuts up with but it doesn’t tell you that and fitting the worktop it give the plastic runners information but they show the wrong way up
Could be bette
Great workmate.... but poor instructions
The Workmate is a sturdy platform for DIY.. I had a much older one (nearly 25years ) that after DIY abuse had come to the end of its useful life. THe new one is great.
HOWEVER, the creator of the instruction sheet for this needs to try again…
Took ages to sort out which bits fitted where and much jiggery pokkery to get the moveable wind in platform to close parallel to the fixed platform. All working now, but be warned!
Great workmate.... but poor instructions
The Workmate is a sturdy platform for DIY.. I had a much older one (nearly 25years ) that after DIY abuse had come to the end of its useful life. THe new one is great.
HOWEVER, the creator of the instruction sheet for this needs to try again…
Took ages to sort out which bits fitted where and much jiggery pokkery to get the moveable wind in platform to close parallel to the fixed platform. All working now, but be warned!
OK once assembled
Comes as a flatpack with assembly instructions which look as if they’ve been drawn by a child. Difficult to follow, especially at section 5 until you realise that the component is a “spanner”. B&D should take a leaf out of Haynes Manuals and use photographs, better wording and sequencing. Once assembled the product seems to work OK and fulfils its intended purpose.
OK once assembled
Comes as a flatpack with assembly instructions which look as if they’ve been drawn by a child. Difficult to follow, especially at section 5 until you realise that the component is a “spanner”. B&D should take a leaf out of Haynes Manuals and use photographs, better wording and sequencing. Once assembled the product seems to work OK and fulfils its intended purpose.
Handy piece of ki
Overall I’m happy with the workmate but I had one issue.
Mine arrived misaligned. The handles weren’t rotated to the same orientation and the bench clamped unevenly. i.e. One side would close about 2cm earlier than the other. This should be a simple fix. Just dis-engage the belt, align, re-engage the belt. Unfortunately the belt is so tight that this is really awkward to do without breaking the plastic belt. I managed to do it but in the process, the belt is partially ripped along the seam where the loop was joined. Fingers crossed it holds up!
Handy piece of ki
Overall I’m happy with the workmate but I had one issue.
Mine arrived misaligned. The handles weren’t rotated to the same orientation and the bench clamped unevenly. i.e. One side would close about 2cm earlier than the other. This should be a simple fix. Just dis-engage the belt, align, re-engage the belt. Unfortunately the belt is so tight that this is really awkward to do without breaking the plastic belt. I managed to do it but in the process, the belt is partially ripped along the seam where the loop was joined. Fingers crossed it holds up!
I have had a workmate for many years this new one was bought as a Christmas prese
I have owned, and used a Workmate for many years now, I wouldn’t be without it, its durable, strong, easy to set up and stores flat. When our daughters partner saw it in use recently, he said how it was just what he had been looking for. We purchased this new version of the Black&Decker Workmate as a Christmas present, knowing it will be used often, and last a lifetime, and be a worthwhile present.
I have had a workmate for many years this new one was bought as a Christmas prese
I have owned, and used a Workmate for many years now, I wouldn’t be without it, its durable, strong, easy to set up and stores flat. When our daughters partner saw it in use recently, he said how it was just what he had been looking for. We purchased this new version of the Black&Decker Workmate as a Christmas present, knowing it will be used often, and last a lifetime, and be a worthwhile present.
Why did I wait so long?
I should have bought one years ago. It takes up little space when folded and provides a stable base to work on for sawing and other DIY tasks. It holds awkward shapes steady when you’re working on them and it is easy to alter the grips or the size of the work bench.
Why did I wait so long?
I should have bought one years ago. It takes up little space when folded and provides a stable base to work on for sawing and other DIY tasks. It holds awkward shapes steady when you’re working on them and it is easy to alter the grips or the size of the work bench.
Perfect for DIY
Great for DIY projects around the home. The inbuilt clamps really helped when cutting new flooring.
Instructions could be cleare
Thankgod there is a picture of it assembled on the box because the instructions weren’t very detailed, but….once I’d say back and studied the picture I was glad that I hadn’t got to ask a male neighbour to help.
No Clear Instructions
My last workmate gave up the ghost after 40yrs great service. At age 66 I Umm’d and Aaah’d about getting another, but a useful tool to have and frustrating if you need one and haven’t got one. I like the idea of the tilting back plate which the old one didn’t have. The whole thing feels more flimsy, the timber on top is almost half the thickness of my old one, but will probably outlive me. The reason for 4 stars instead of 5 was the assembly was a pig, there were no clear instructions (maybe because I got a warehouse deal not in original box) but it was an interesting puzzle nonetheless. good bit of kit overall
No Clear Instructions
My last workmate gave up the ghost after 40yrs great service. At age 66 I Umm’d and Aaah’d about getting another, but a useful tool to have and frustrating if you need one and haven’t got one. I like the idea of the tilting back plate which the old one didn’t have. The whole thing feels more flimsy, the timber on top is almost half the thickness of my old one, but will probably outlive me. The reason for 4 stars instead of 5 was the assembly was a pig, there were no clear instructions (maybe because I got a warehouse deal not in original box) but it was an interesting puzzle nonetheless. good bit of kit overall
Heavy duty Workmate by Black and Decke
This was bought to be used in a newly set-up Men’s Shed where space is limited in workspace. I have had one of these for 30-40 years and it is still going strong. This is a much better version than my one with sturdier frame and wider top and jaw spacing. The only part I am unsure about is the perforated belt which connects the two winding handles to enable faster opening and closing of the jaws. I suspect that this might not be as durable as the rest of the workmate as it is made of a nylon plastic material but that aside the jaws will still open or close if it breaks or stretches to prevent the cogged wheel on each handle from working independently of each other as on my old Workmate. That aside the Workmate is an excellent versatile tool for professional and DIY use.
Great item
Yes the product was good but when delivered it was left on show with the porch door open wide for others to see and potentially steal
THOSE GERMANS
strong sturdy bit of kit, 4 days delivery service, arrived direct from factory in Germany, excellent. A little baffled by instructions, watched a girl put it together on YOU-TUBE
Great product, great value
The instructions were very poor. But the product is good quality. I have had several cheap ones but for the extra 10 I hope I have got the quality
Good quality item
No problem with the product, but the package we received had clearly been opened before, was damaged, and taped up very poorly. The metal fastening staples were hanging out, leaving the contents vulnerable to being lost. There was some chipping to the timber clamps.
In view of the inconvenience of returning such a heavy item, and the fact that it will be subjected to some heavy use, we accepted it reluctantly. We paid full price, so should receive perfect goods.
As described
Bought for my husband.
2 stars for ease of assembly as I didn’t see him for 2 hours and he still hadn’t got it right.
However when he tried again he was successful.
He is pleased with the produc
Good quality item
No problem with the product, but the package we received had clearly been opened before, was damaged, and taped up very poorly. The metal fastening staples were hanging out, leaving the contents vulnerable to being lost. There was some chipping to the timber clamps.
In view of the inconvenience of returning such a heavy item, and the fact that it will be subjected to some heavy use, we accepted it reluctantly. We paid full price, so should receive perfect goods.
The most sturdy foldable workbench I have ever had
Previously bought cheap versions which have never been very sturdy or don’t fold up correctly for storage.
100% satisfied, well worth the extra cost, which was still very competitive.
Ok ish
Instructions useless had to go to YouTube, bought it but I also have a keeter and a few other workbenches which are more stable but wanted to try this with the clamping folding mechanism. Not really impressed life long DIY er, it’s ok, but I wouldn’t buy it again now I have tested it.
Ok ish
Instructions useless had to go to YouTube, bought it but I also have a keeter and a few other workbenches which are more stable but wanted to try this with the clamping folding mechanism. Not really impressed life long DIY er, it’s ok, but I wouldn’t buy it again now I have tested it.
Still the bes
After a life of around 35 years my previous B & D Workmate needed replacing. Not bad as it has lived outdoors for most of the last 10 years, with just a cover over it to keep it dry. This new one was delivered promptly and was up and working for its living within a few hours of arrival. Needless to say it is starting out its life living indoors in my Workshop.
Still the bes
After a life of around 35 years my previous B & D Workmate needed replacing. Not bad as it has lived outdoors for most of the last 10 years, with just a cover over it to keep it dry. This new one was delivered promptly and was up and working for its living within a few hours of arrival. Needless to say it is starting out its life living indoors in my Workshop.
Strong, portable and really versatile
This is the most versatile workmate I have used so far, having had several models both in the US and UK. It holds jobs far bigger than it’s size securely and is stable on all but the most uneven surfaces.
Strong, portable and really versatile
This is the most versatile workmate I have used so far, having had several models both in the US and UK. It holds jobs far bigger than it’s size securely and is stable on all but the most uneven surfaces.
Sturdy, but drive belt could be thicker.
Very sturdy bench, but instructions were written by the same people who write Ikea’s!
Plastic drive belt snapped whilst using it first time – needs to be stronger.
Reluctant to return as bench works without belt, but have to use both hands to turn the handles, which rather defeats the object.
Sturdy, but drive belt could be thicker.
Very sturdy bench, but instructions were written by the same people who write Ikea’s!
Plastic drive belt snapped whilst using it first time – needs to be stronger.
Reluctant to return as bench works without belt, but have to use both hands to turn the handles, which rather defeats the object.
Most important tool to prevent trouble.
Ok so the main competition for this item is really the kitchen table. I will compare the relative merits of both pieces of equipment to show which is the best to use when cutting out wood with either a handsaw or, in my case, a really good dewalt jigsaw.
The kitchen table is pine, and nicely varnished with a good working height, and plenty of room to hold the piece. It isnt very mobile, so you are going to have sawdust in the kitchen. Not ideal.
The Workmate on the other hand is much smaller, but is mobile and can be taken to where you are working, limiting the spread of the mess, which is a definitely plus. There are also movable plastic ‘pegs’ that you can hold your piece against and for smaller pieces opening top that can clamp the piece. The piece slides all over the kitchen table scratching the nice varnish, and this really 8s the start of the big downside of the kitchen table. Even if you clear up meticulously, and as a bloke, that doesn’t really apply to me, you are going to get it a bit of trouble.
Next I will review the sticky subject of over cut. This is where you are cutting the piece, and the jigsaw, or handsaw, cuts more that you intend.
Here the workmate comes out way ahead of the kitchen table. I have cut the wood on my workmate many times, and never had an adverse reaction from my wife. However the kitchen table was a whole other matter.
I cannot recommend using the workmate over the kitchen table any more strongly, in fact, the benefits of not being persona non grata in your own house far outweigh the small amount of outlay needed for the workmate.
Good item, could have been transported bette
The box was damaged. During assembly it was clear that part of the release mechanism had become detached from the main body of the Workmate. It took a while to figure out where it should go and it now works fine, a great item. The damage to the box tells me it was thrown around a lot. Whoever this company uses for delivery needs to have a rethink about the standards they apply
Easy to build (301), good for home DIY.
I had read several reviews of B&D workmates that were not flattering…but took the risk. The 301 was up in 30 mins with an extra few mins trying to get the handles secured with the metal pins…a tad difficult…but if you can round off the end of the pin with a hammer first, it does go in far enough to secure the handles….see pic. Everything else fitted together quite easily. One person job.. instructions fine…see pic. Wood top is not solid wood but some kind of wood mix…not chipboard (!)..see pic. All in all v pleased. Good enough for some home DIY…made a couple of planters from 10*3 wood and workmate was easy to use. Fairly sturdy and stable if you hold down with your foot when cutting.
Easy to build (301), good for home DIY.
I had read several reviews of B&D workmates that were not flattering…but took the risk. The 301 was up in 30 mins with an extra few mins trying to get the handles secured with the metal pins…a tad difficult…but if you can round off the end of the pin with a hammer first, it does go in far enough to secure the handles….see pic. Everything else fitted together quite easily. One person job.. instructions fine…see pic. Wood top is not solid wood but some kind of wood mix…not chipboard (!)..see pic. All in all v pleased. Good enough for some home DIY…made a couple of planters from 10*3 wood and workmate was easy to use. Fairly sturdy and stable if you hold down with your foot when cutting.
A good sturdy work bench
This bench offers good value for money, it is sturdy enough for DIY projects, but would ne be suitable for full time use. The assembly instructions were difficult to follow, the technical drawings need to be clearer. If I were not an application engineer I would have struggled to assemble. But once it was assembled it was fine.
Ive updated my Workmate after nearly 40 years !
It must be nearly 40 years ago I purchased my last workmate and how they have changed. The first one was a vice and you could clamp things whilst laying things on the surface using the plastic lugs, but now this one will clamp things at 90 degrees and the jaws open so much wider. These benches are a must for any DIYer, they fold flat and are extremely lightweight. There are two work heights and whilst the clips of the lower section look a bit flimsy – they are ready available should you break one.
Overall : I’m very impressed with my Black & Decker Workmate
Ive updated my Workmate after nearly 40 years !
It must be nearly 40 years ago I purchased my last workmate and how they have changed. The first one was a vice and you could clamp things whilst laying things on the surface using the plastic lugs, but now this one will clamp things at 90 degrees and the jaws open so much wider. These benches are a must for any DIYer, they fold flat and are extremely lightweight. There are two work heights and whilst the clips of the lower section look a bit flimsy – they are ready available should you break one.
Overall : I’m very impressed with my Black & Decker Workmate
workmate
hanks again, product arrived 2 days early, keep up the good work
Great, but assembly is frustrating
Sturdy enough for my DIY and for the price paid, but the assembly instructions are diabolical. Especially fitting the clamp boards. Diagrams are just not enough for this part – whatever happened to words!
I resorted to YouTube for an assembly demonstration and found a great one, so was able to quickly finish assembly.
Great, but assembly is frustrating
Sturdy enough for my DIY and for the price paid, but the assembly instructions are diabolical. Especially fitting the clamp boards. Diagrams are just not enough for this part – whatever happened to words!
I resorted to YouTube for an assembly demonstration and found a great one, so was able to quickly finish assembly.
Good once you’ve battled to put it togethe
Instructions needed to be much better. The banging in of the tiny metal pin to fix the handles on was unnecessary and difficult to do.
It should come with an easier fixing or already put on.
Otherwise fine when assembled………yet to use fully.
Use online videos to help you.
Good once you’ve battled to put it togethe
Instructions needed to be much better. The banging in of the tiny metal pin to fix the handles on was unnecessary and difficult to do.
It should come with an easier fixing or already put on.
Otherwise fine when assembled………yet to use fully.
Use online videos to help you.
Not thr bes
Instructions to assemble are not great.Takes time to assemble Top board moves instead of being solid,sounits being worked on are NOT secure
Very quiet and lazy
I thought that by buying this product I would be getting someone to help with the work and make the brew, but no. Apparently it is just a table. I still have to make the tea and clean up after jobs so false advertising is certainly in play here. How can a table be classed as a “mate”? it doesn’t talk or help out! Not impressed.
Everything seems okay WM825
As regards assembly, if you’ve ordered one of these you already have DIY skills at some leval. Throw away the instructions and refer to the on-line “How to assemble a B&D workmate plus 825” The first one that comes up shows a young lady assembling the 825. The assembly has a pause button allowing you to go back and check your assembling craft. Did it in under 30 minutes after much stop-and-pause and I’m an ageing senior. Not used the WM825 yet but it looks and feels okay and much better than my old one that has less functions.
Everything seems okay WM825
As regards assembly, if you’ve ordered one of these you already have DIY skills at some leval. Throw away the instructions and refer to the on-line “How to assemble a B&D workmate plus 825” The first one that comes up shows a young lady assembling the 825. The assembly has a pause button allowing you to go back and check your assembling craft. Did it in under 30 minutes after much stop-and-pause and I’m an ageing senior. Not used the WM825 yet but it looks and feels okay and much better than my old one that has less functions.
Putting it together is not easy!
Instructions are vague, had to look on You Tube on how to put it together. There are 3 different places to fit the fixed top which is not obvious. As the top us held in with plastic bolts changing the position will eventually wear out the bolts.
The strap which connects the two handles to allow one handed operation in tightening is poor and stretches; more of a gimmick than of actual use. On the positive side it is extremely stable and strong, the tilting facility is useful too.
Putting it together is not easy!
Instructions are vague, had to look on You Tube on how to put it together. There are 3 different places to fit the fixed top which is not obvious. As the top us held in with plastic bolts changing the position will eventually wear out the bolts.
The strap which connects the two handles to allow one handed operation in tightening is poor and stretches; more of a gimmick than of actual use. On the positive side it is extremely stable and strong, the tilting facility is useful too.
Good but not grea
I reckon you could probably buy the cheaper one and be better off
Great product, awful instructions.
Great item but the awful instructions made it very difficult to assemble. Even with assistance from YouTube, it was still a struggle. When it has finally been constructed, it’s brilliant and no complaints there.
No so easy to assemble
Not so easy to assemble and not used it yet, but seems sturdy enough.
Poor instructions.
Instructions were useless. Pictures not clear enough. Difficult to screw parts together as alignment is poor. Not nearly as sturdy as my old version. Let’s see how long it lasts!
The original and still the bes
I got this for 80 and was an amazon buy in 2020, but I would have paid more now I know what I’ve got. You can use this at 2 heights. My son uses the lower height (he’s 12) and I the upper setting. Love the fact that you can clamp bigger objects. There is a satisfying clonk/click when legs extend and the vertical camping mechanism activates and when collapsing the unit. Both the adjusting handles turn at the same time (to save time). The wooden parts curiously were very dusty and needed wiping with a damp cloth. A spring had become detached in transit, but I figured out where it needed to go (check the packaging before you throw it out!) cos there was another in a mirror position on the other side. Overall a brilliant product. Hangs on a garage wall with aid of couple of hooks (not supplied). Dad bought me a cheap version to get me started when i left home, but recently showing signs of wear. Now i’m 50 it was time to upgrade to the real thing. I’ve no doubt my Dad felt this great when he treated himself to his first B&D workmate (no apologies for the nostalgia!).
Improved I guess...
I was reading a lot of reviews before ordering this product, most disappointment was about the instructions how to build. Apparently they improved it by adding some pictured instructions. The challenge was, that still some of the parts has not been accurately depictured. To avoid it, parts could be marked by letters or numbers. Takes some time to ensemble the whole thing. Will be helpful if you have your own socket #13, since the one from the set is a bit fragile.
In general a workbench that may not last for decades, but a fair work buddy for the value. Just needed it for a tiny carpentry project, but its pretty solid and heavier than expected. Perfect for an amateur like me I guess.
Improved I guess...
I was reading a lot of reviews before ordering this product, most disappointment was about the instructions how to build. Apparently they improved it by adding some pictured instructions. The challenge was, that still some of the parts has not been accurately depictured. To avoid it, parts could be marked by letters or numbers. Takes some time to ensemble the whole thing. Will be helpful if you have your own socket #13, since the one from the set is a bit fragile.
In general a workbench that may not last for decades, but a fair work buddy for the value. Just needed it for a tiny carpentry project, but its pretty solid and heavier than expected. Perfect for an amateur like me I guess.
The original and still the bes
I got this for 80 and was an amazon buy in 2020, but I would have paid more now I know what I’ve got. You can use this at 2 heights. My son uses the lower height (he’s 12) and I the upper setting. Love the fact that you can clamp bigger objects. There is a satisfying clonk/click when legs extend and the vertical camping mechanism activates and when collapsing the unit. Both the adjusting handles turn at the same time (to save time). The wooden parts curiously were very dusty and needed wiping with a damp cloth. A spring had become detached in transit, but I figured out where it needed to go (check the packaging before you throw it out!) cos there was another in a mirror position on the other side. Overall a brilliant product. Hangs on a garage wall with aid of couple of hooks (not supplied). Dad bought me a cheap version to get me started when i left home, but recently showing signs of wear. Now i’m 50 it was time to upgrade to the real thing. I’ve no doubt my Dad felt this great when he treated himself to his first B&D workmate (no apologies for the nostalgia!).
Unnecessarily frustrating assembly.
Unless you have assembled a work bench before, expect to struggle with the assembly institutions. I would recommend the 1st thing you should do is put the rubber feet on the frame to protect your flooring or carpet. The instructions show the rubber feet being fitted last. I think this needs to change on the assembly instructions. Secondly when you finally assemble the workbench, the worst bit is hammering the pins into the handle rods. Apart from the risk of hitting your thumb with the hammer or damaging the frame. This process is very strenuous and physically demanding. B &D should replace this with a screw and bolt. It would have made the whole process immensely better. As for the work bench it is a good bench but the above assembly flaws let down.
Unnecessarily frustrating assembly.
Unless you have assembled a work bench before, expect to struggle with the assembly institutions. I would recommend the 1st thing you should do is put the rubber feet on the frame to protect your flooring or carpet. The instructions show the rubber feet being fitted last. I think this needs to change on the assembly instructions. Secondly when you finally assemble the workbench, the worst bit is hammering the pins into the handle rods. Apart from the risk of hitting your thumb with the hammer or damaging the frame. This process is very strenuous and physically demanding. B &D should replace this with a screw and bolt. It would have made the whole process immensely better. As for the work bench it is a good bench but the above assembly flaws let down.
Seems ideal and well made but not actually used it ye
Delivery on time, straightforward assembly, nice and robust, makes the cheap one I also bought look dreadful. I haven’t used it yet, but am absolutely confident it will be ideal for what I want it for. Like many things, the original brand shines bright.
Seems ideal and well made but not actually used it ye
Delivery on time, straightforward assembly, nice and robust, makes the cheap one I also bought look dreadful. I haven’t used it yet, but am absolutely confident it will be ideal for what I want it for. Like many things, the original brand shines bright.
Some assembly needed.
Great once I got it assembled, unfortunately some of the holes did not line up properly, had to drill them out to get the bolts through.
Useful item, shame about the instructions.
Found the Workmate incredibly useful, but the assembly instructions are appalling. Had the major parts been numbered, it might have been a little easier to put together. As it is, it took me a couple of hours to complete the assembly. As for engineering precision, I can’t imagine for one moment that B and D actually manufacture these benches.
Useful item, shame about the instructions.
Found the Workmate incredibly useful, but the assembly instructions are appalling. Had the major parts been numbered, it might have been a little easier to put together. As it is, it took me a couple of hours to complete the assembly. As for engineering precision, I can’t imagine for one moment that B and D actually manufacture these benches.
Its a work bench.
Totally agree with other comments regarding instructions, absolutely rubbish, however…. it is really simple to put together so they are not needed. The plastic chain for single handed use was off the gears on arrival, again simple to rectify but not much hope of it lasting . Over all a decent enough piece of kit.
Its a work bench.
Totally agree with other comments regarding instructions, absolutely rubbish, however…. it is really simple to put together so they are not needed. The plastic chain for single handed use was off the gears on arrival, again simple to rectify but not much hope of it lasting . Over all a decent enough piece of kit.
a design that's nearly 50 years old don't want reviewing
Great bit of kit as ever the only thing i didn’t like is assembling it!
if you buy something you just want to use it not spend an hour putting it together
I don’t get why they don’t make the box bigger and make it ready to use
a design that's nearly 50 years old don't want reviewing
Great bit of kit as ever the only thing i didn’t like is assembling it!
if you buy something you just want to use it not spend an hour putting it together
I don’t get why they don’t make the box bigger and make it ready to use
Safety conce
Some of the edges of the metal frame are quite sharp particularly underneath around the lever mechanism and supporting struts. They require filing as this is a health and safety issue
Stable table. Solidly built.
Good solid table. Just what I needed for my wood working. I would recommend this very stable. The only thing wrong was the assemble instructions were not very clear. But you can work it out.
This is the one you should buy
I found it difficult to buy a workbench because of the reviews complaining that these are not what they used to be or as one put is quite eloquently “This is not your dad’s black and decker” and I am sure that is true. However, there is some really badly made crap out there as I found out by thinking “if they are all badly made I will get whichever one can deliver to me soonest”. However after returning my previous purchase and getting this believe me there is a world of difference. This is sturdy and usable and it actually does get the job done. Don’t buy any of the badly made knock-offs – just get this one. The price isn’t even that different.
This is the one you should buy
I found it difficult to buy a workbench because of the reviews complaining that these are not what they used to be or as one put is quite eloquently “This is not your dad’s black and decker” and I am sure that is true. However, there is some really badly made crap out there as I found out by thinking “if they are all badly made I will get whichever one can deliver to me soonest”. However after returning my previous purchase and getting this believe me there is a world of difference. This is sturdy and usable and it actually does get the job done. Don’t buy any of the badly made knock-offs – just get this one. The price isn’t even that different.
Great product, poor assembly instructions
First the bad point. Assembly instructions very poor. If they were good, I would have saved a lot of time and energy. It nearly killed my enthusiasm for it.
Other than that, I have found it really useful in completing some recent lockdown DIY projects including making 7×4 wooden bike shed.
I used it as a platform for gripping wood, as a mitre saw stand (with care), as a general table for having tools handy at the site.
It’s lightweight and sturdy. For some actions like sawing, or light hammering an object, you will need to put your foot on its leg to keep it somewhat still. I used some grippers around it and also used its own gripping centre. Overall, very good. Highly recommended to watch YouTube video for assembly. If I knew it would be this bad, I would have made a video. But realised very late. Sorry.
Great product, poor assembly instructions
First the bad point. Assembly instructions very poor. If they were good, I would have saved a lot of time and energy. It nearly killed my enthusiasm for it.
Other than that, I have found it really useful in completing some recent lockdown DIY projects including making 7×4 wooden bike shed.
I used it as a platform for gripping wood, as a mitre saw stand (with care), as a general table for having tools handy at the site.
It’s lightweight and sturdy. For some actions like sawing, or light hammering an object, you will need to put your foot on its leg to keep it somewhat still. I used some grippers around it and also used its own gripping centre. Overall, very good. Highly recommended to watch YouTube video for assembly. If I knew it would be this bad, I would have made a video. But realised very late. Sorry.