It's primarily used to support the stock while working in it. Like this:
[Linked Image from i.ibb.co]

There is also a hole closer to the vise for shotgun stocks

It would certainly be useful for barrels like you suggested or anything else that needed support

I should also mention I revised my design the use 3/8" black pipe, which fits in a 3/4" or 11/16" hole, and I shortened the riser to 6"

Last edited by Woodreaux; 08/16/26 12:17 AM.

Jim