Sounds like a solid plan, just watch out for that old oak’s tendency to shift after a few seasons. Strip it down to a clean grain, then straighten with a hand plane and a good clamping jig – no power tools, just the right amount of patience and a sharp spirit. Make the bench sloped so the hands stay in place and you’re not chasing a wobbling target. Finish it with a light oil that lets the wood breathe, and you’ll have a bench that’s as tough as your workout and as stubborn as the board itself. Keep the splinters in check, and you’ll end up with a masterpiece that feels like a hug from timber.