Ok so you are trying to perform maintenance and assemble your own firearms. Bench blocks are a tool that can help you with such a task. We came across two listings on Amazon, one slight over $20 and one under it and we wanted to see if the under $20 option has enough going for it for you consideration. The two brands are Wheeler and Real Avid. First let's take a look at the two items and then we'll ask Chat GPT for some added insight.
First we have the Wheeler Universal Bench Block. Currently on Amazon for $22.89 and it has a 4.7 star score on over 2,300 ratings.
Then we have the Real Avid Smart Universal Bench Block. Currently on Amazon for only $11.99 and it has a 4.8 star score on over 5,600 ratings.
Both listings has interesting analysis on the feedback sites. Wheeler passed on Review Meta but got got marks on Fakespot. Real Avid was the exact opposite. When that happens we declare it a draw on feedback and assume that both listings feedback can be relied upon. So now that we can look at the feedback from a one to one position, we can start doing comparisons elsewhere. Where the difference is very clear is of course is on price. Real Avid being over $10 cheaper gives it a big edge in a world where all else is equal. So now let's see if Chat GPT has any insight that could sway things back towards Wheeler...
"Both the Wheeler Engineering Bench Block and the Real Avid Smart Bench Block are tools designed to assist with the maintenance and assembly of firearms. Let's compare the two:
Wheeler Engineering Bench Block:
The Wheeler Engineering Bench Block is a gunsmithing tool designed to aid in the assembly, disassembly, and maintenance of firearms.
It typically features multiple holes and slots of various sizes to accommodate different parts of firearms during cleaning or assembly.
The bench block is made of a durable, non-marring material to protect the firearm's finish.
It may have specialized grooves and holes for holding specific parts securely in place.
Real Avid Smart Bench Block:
The Real Avid Smart Bench Block is another gunsmithing tool with a design that includes multiple holes and channels for holding and organizing firearm components.
It often includes magnets to help keep small parts in place and organized during maintenance or assembly.
The Smart Bench Block may have engraved diagrams or labels to assist users in placing and identifying various firearm parts correctly.
Like the Wheeler block, it is typically made of a non-marring material to protect the firearm.
When choosing between the two, consider your specific needs and preferences. Both products aim to provide a stable platform for working on firearms and can be useful for gunsmiths and firearm enthusiasts. The decision may come down to factors such as the specific features each block offers, the layout of holes and channels, and any additional features that may be important to you. Reading user reviews and considering the types of firearms you'll be working on can also help inform your decision."
Fair analysis by the AI. It does appear that both products are more or less in the same boat. It's possible that Wheeler may have something special about it to justify the higher cost. We will leave it to the specialists to figure that out. In the meantime based on overall information, the Real Avid bench block gets our nod as the better pick based on the cheaper price.
NOTE: All price and review info is based on the time of posting. The numbers may have changed since the creation of this article. Don't forget to always research everything yourself before you buy it, don't just take our word for it. All links to Amazon on this page are part of the Associates program which gives us commissions, thanks for your support!