Wheeler Universal Bench Block Review

Let’s Dive into Wheeler Universal Bench Block

The Wheeler Universal Bench Block from Wheeler Engineering is a seemingly simple tool, but it’s designed to be a gunsmith’s best friend. It promises to simplify handgun maintenance and modification by providing a stable, non-marring platform. I’ve spent countless hours wrestling with pins and springs, often improvising with whatever was lying around, so the promise of a dedicated tool immediately caught my attention.

My primary motivation was to avoid damaging my firearms during routine maintenance. I was tired of using makeshift solutions that never quite held things steady, often leading to scratches or, worse, bent pins. I needed a reliable third hand.

Upon unboxing, the Wheeler Universal Bench Block felt solid and well-made. The urethane material had a reassuring density, and the various cutouts looked precisely machined. It felt significantly more professional than my usual assortment of wood blocks and rolled-up towels.

I considered alternatives like the Real Avid Master Gun Workstation, but the Wheeler Universal Bench Block’s compact size and focus on handgun work made it more appealing for my needs. I also looked at a generic aluminum block, but worried about it marring my gun’s finish. The urethane material seemed like the perfect compromise.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The Wheeler Universal Bench Block appeared to be a well-thought-out tool. I was eager to see if it would live up to its promises of simplifying gun maintenance and protecting my firearms from damage.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Wheeler Universal Bench Block to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Wheeler Universal Bench Block while detail stripping my Glock 19 after a particularly dusty range session. I used it on my workbench in my garage. The garage isn’t climate controlled, so that day was pretty hot and humid.

The Wheeler Universal Bench Block proved invaluable for driving out the trigger pin and removing the slide lock lever. The various recesses and channels provided excellent support. I found that the block stabilized the frame, and made pin removal incredibly easier and more controlled than previous methods.

There were no immediate issues, and the process was significantly smoother than when using a punch and a roll of tape. The biggest surprise was how much more confident I felt knowing that I wasn’t damaging my pistol.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of using the Wheeler Universal Bench Block for various maintenance tasks, it has become an indispensable part of my gunsmithing kit. The urethane material has held up remarkably well, showing no signs of cracking or deformation. It is holding up well, with no wear and tear to note.

Cleaning is straightforward. Any residue wipes off easily with a damp cloth. Compared to my previous methods, the Wheeler Universal Bench Block offers a level of stability and precision I never thought possible for such a simple tool. It significantly outperforms my old setup.

Breaking Down the Features of Wheeler Universal Bench Block

Specifications

The Wheeler Universal Bench Block is crafted from non-marring urethane, ensuring that firearm finishes are protected during use. It has an unspecified weight, but is light enough to be easily moved around the workbench, yet dense enough to remain stable during use. Its color is blue.

The block features a main spring removal recess and boss, simplifying the disassembly and reassembly of 1911-style pistols. A dedicated barrel link removal v channel aids in the removal of barrel links without damaging the surrounding components. The rear sight drift channel and front sight staking channel facilitate sight adjustments and replacements. Hammer and sear pin removal holes offer precise support for driving out these critical pins. Finally, an ejector port dressing channel provides a stable platform for cleaning and maintaining the ejector port.

These specifications are essential because they address the common challenges faced during handgun maintenance. The non-marring material prevents cosmetic damage. The specialized channels and recesses offer stability and support during delicate procedures.

Performance & Functionality

The Wheeler Universal Bench Block performs its job admirably. It provides a stable and secure platform for a wide range of handgun maintenance tasks. It is especially effective for pin removal and sight adjustments.

Its primary strength is its versatility. It can accommodate various handgun models. The only weakness is that its relatively small size can be a limiting factor for larger firearms.

The Wheeler Universal Bench Block meets my expectations and then some. It has transformed the way I approach handgun maintenance, making the process more efficient and less stressful.

Design & Ergonomics

The Wheeler Universal Bench Block’s design is simple, yet effective. The urethane material is durable and provides a non-slip surface. Its compact size makes it easy to store.

There is no learning curve associated with using the Wheeler Universal Bench Block. The intuitive design makes it easy to identify the appropriate channels and recesses for each task.

Durability & Maintenance

The Wheeler Universal Bench Block is built to last. The urethane material is resistant to solvents and oils, and it shows no signs of degradation after months of use.

Maintenance is minimal. Simply wipe the block clean after each use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Wheeler Universal Bench Block does not come with any accessories. It’s a standalone tool designed to complement existing gunsmithing equipment. There are no customization options. The block is designed to work with a wide range of handguns as-is.

It is compatible with most standard gunsmithing tools, such as punches, hammers, and sight pushers.

Pros and Cons of Wheeler Universal Bench Block

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Who Should Buy Wheeler Universal Bench Block?

The Wheeler Universal Bench Block is perfect for: gun owners who perform their own maintenance, amateur gunsmiths, and anyone who wants to protect their firearms from damage during routine tasks. It is also great for competitive shooters and law enforcement personnel.

This product might not be necessary for those who only occasionally clean their firearms. Those who rely solely on professional gunsmiths for all maintenance tasks could skip this product.

A quality set of punches and a gunsmithing hammer would be must-have accessories to complement the Wheeler Universal Bench Block.

Conclusion on Wheeler Universal Bench Block

The Wheeler Universal Bench Block is a simple, yet incredibly effective tool that has transformed my handgun maintenance routine. It provides a stable and non-marring platform for a wide range of tasks, making the process more efficient and less stressful. The value proposition is excellent. The price is justified.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Wheeler Universal Bench Block to anyone who wants to protect their firearms and simplify their maintenance procedures. It’s a worthwhile investment that will pay dividends in the long run. Go ahead and grab one, you won’t regret it!