Redefining Portable Workbench Convenience
When you think of a portable workbench, what comes to mind? Perhaps a couple of sawhorses and a sheet of plywood are your go-to options. However, concerns about holding capacity and stability may arise. That’s where the Bora Centipede Workbench steps in, offering a fresh perspective and the potential to simplify your setup.
Essentially, the Centipede operates on the same principle as those popular folding camp chairs, but with more touchpoints. Its steel frame incorporates a structural design specifically considering high load capacity. With more points of contact than a simple 4-leg system, you can place heavy bench tools anywhere on the surface while distributing the weight evenly.
Impressive Weight Capacities
Curious about how much the Centipede can hold? Let’s take a look:
- 4 x 2: 2500 lbs
- 4 x 4: 3500 lbs
- 4 x 6: 4500 lbs
- 4 x 8: 6000 lbs
Yes, you read that right. Depending on the size you choose, this workbench can handle up to 3 tons! What’s even more remarkable is that it weighs only 12 to 30 pounds.
Polaris Centipede Workbench Accessories
P-top
Each bracket on the Centipede features a polymer P-cap that prevents scratches or marks from damaging your workpiece. Additionally, these caps elevate the top to protect it from circular saw blades or other tool impacts on critical horizontal supports.
Quick Fixture
For securing materials in place, the Centipede provides quick clamps that slide into holes on the cover. The lid can swivel to accommodate clamping from any convenient point. While the clips are simply rubber-covered plastic pieces that fit into the P-Tops without actually clamping, our tests showed that the top remained stable during the cutting process.
X cup
The Bora Centipede Workbench also includes X-Cups, which offer recessed 2 x 4 support, enabling you to create instant sawhorses anywhere on the equipment. While the X-Cups may tend to move back and forth on the rotating P-Tops, they become more stable once you put some weight on them.
Bora Centipede Bench Top
There’s an optional 2′ x 4′ folding table made of MDF that you can use as an alternative to plywood. These tabletops come in various options with pre-drilled 20mm or 3/4″ stop holes. Each top includes six twist lock handles to secure it to the Centipede and enhance rigidity. The hinges in the middle make it easy to carry the top, and you can even combine multiple tops to cover larger work areas. This option is particularly useful when working outdoors with the potential for rain.
Using the Bora Centipede Workbench
Upon unfolding the frame, we initially had concerns about its movement. However, when we placed the Centipede on our shop’s concrete floor and added a pair of X-Cups on the ends, we were pleasantly surprised by its stability. It provided a sturdy platform for cutting boards to size.
For bench conversion, we attached the included MDF top. We wanted to test the Centipede’s performance on surfaces that were less than ideal, as not all job sites are perfectly smooth. Despite slight imperfections in the ground’s elevation, the Centipede’s design, with multiple points of contact, helped maintain stability. It provided a secure platform even on Florida’s sugar sands.
Bora Centipede Workbench Prices and Comparison
Here’s a breakdown of the Centipede’s prices and capacities:
| Size | Weight Capacity | Workbench Price (30 inches tall) | Also Includes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4×2 | 2500 lbs | $99 | Tote bag, 2 quick clips, 4 X cups |
| 4×4 | 3500 lbs | $145 | Tote bag, 4 quick clips, 4 X cups |
| 4×6 | 4500 lbs | $185 | Tote bag, 4 quick clips, 4 X cups |
| 4×8 | 6000 lbs | $219 | Tote bag, 4 quick clips, 4 X cups |
Please note that the 4×2 size is also available as a 36-inch bench height option for $115.
There are also several bundles available:
- 4 x 2 Centipede with a table top (3/4″ dog hole) and table top tote: $224.98
- 4 x 4 Centipede with 25″ WTX side and 25″ side extension: $149.90
The Bottom Line
We’ve been using the Bora Centipede Workbench since its initial concept in 2015, and it has consistently proven to be an excellent product. The latest version boasts an improved weight capacity. What we appreciate about the Centipede is its compactness for easy storage and straightforward installation. The price is reasonable for DIYers who share garage space with various other items, and professionals will find it convenient and time-saving.
Discover more about Bora’s products on their website!