The shave horse has been around for donkey’s years, proving its worth time and time again as an inimitable piece of workshop kit. It’s essentially a giant vice, perfect for larger projects that require a bit more strength and a solid working position. Using a few tools, I’m going to show you how to make a continental/American ‘dumbhead’ shave horse. It’s a really good ‘quick release’ vice that leaves both hands free and allows you to sit while working. There are other designs, such as the bodger’s horse, but I like this style. The shave horse is equally useful both indoors and outdoors. It works efficiently, and is easily adjusted for different working angles – allowing you to work precisely and in comfort.