Reviews (21)

The One to Have
Leonard Lee's "The Complete Guide to Sharpening" is a wonderful (make that essential) addition to the home or shop library. A writer once told me that a really good title should only fit one book, and this one certainly does. After reading the table of contents I was awakened to the idea that almost every tool needs something sharpened, reshaped, or polished to perform its tasks the best. How about sidecut pliers, tweezers, various drill and router bits? They're covered in this book.I appreciate the photographs and illustrations of various cutting edges under extremely high magnification. The whole "a picture is worth a thousand words" cliche takes on serious meaning in this book. Some prospective buyers may look at the sheer scope of this work and think it's overkill -- too comprehensive for most hobbyists. I strongly disagree. This work should be read, followed, and kept for future reference. I would not have thought of sharpening my pruning shears, hedge trimmers or other tools had I not purchased this book. I find it well-written, comprehensive in scope, founded in facts, and easy to follow. I consider this book the equivalent of a doctoral dissertation on sharpening. Buy it and use it.

Now my tools are scarey sharp!
Prior to reading Mr. Lee's book my approach to sharpening was to fire up the grinding wheel and make some sparks fly from the tool's cutting edge.The results were less than satisfactory.I needed a mentor.
Best Book for Sharpening Skills
This is the best book by far that I've found for sharpening every tool in the workshop. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Carpentry tools    2. Crafts & Hobbies    3. Hand Tools    4. Hobbies/Crafts    5. Home Improvement / Construction    6. Power Tools    7. Reference    8. Sharpening of tools    9. Woodwork    10. Woodwork - Tools    11. Woodworking    12. Woodworking tools    13. Crafts & Hobbies / Woodwork   

Reviews (2)

Excellent Woodworker's Tool
A basic guide that covers just about all you need to know on the subject.Taunton is always the source to use for the best in anything to do with carpentry and home repair.

Starting Out Right
It's not like me to wax poetic over a an introductory how-to book, but Lonnie Bird's tome on Using Woodworking Tools really is one of the finest effots I've ever seen.Taunton continues to set the bar with their 'complete illustrated' guides, but this one is exceptional for even that series.
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Subjects:  1. Crafts / Hobbies    2. Do-It-Yourself    3. Furniture    4. Hand Tools    5. House & Home    6. Power Tools    7. Woodwork - Furniture/Cabinetry    8. Woodworking    9. Woodworking tools    10. Crafts & Hobbies / Woodwork    11. House & Home / Woodworking   

Reviews (7)

Scroll Saw Workbook
This is an EXCELLECT book!!! It tells you all different ways to use the scroll saw, like Fret Work, Intarsia, Compound, Stackables and many others. It gives step by step instructions, Very easy to follow and do. If you're not sure what kind of scroll sawing you want to do this book will help you choose that one. Or maybe you're like me and you'll end up liking them all. A definte or any one who enjoys the SCOLL SAW!!!!

Best Book to Buy
This is the best book to buy to learn about using a scroll saw.Great instructions, explanations, and fantastic excercises in logical order to move you forward in expertise and confidence.
Nice guide to start
Very nice book. It guided you step by step on the use of the scroll saw and explains the differences between saws. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Crafts & Hobbies    2. Crafts / Hobbies    3. Hobbies/Crafts    4. Power Tools    5. Woodwork - General    6. House & Home / Power Tools    7. Woodworking   

Reviews (6)

Lovely designs, avoid his methods
This was the first book I bought on knifemaking, and my copy is falling apart (it's 28 years old!)I absolutely love David Boye's sense of design, and his work has inspired my own considerably.That said, I learned a great deal about knifemaking from other sources, and I use few of his methods.Specifically, I would never use a wheel grinder on knife steel, it generates a great deal more heat than a belt grinder, isn't nearly as accurate, and the cutting surface is smaller.I would NEVER cut out blades with a cutting torch, unless you wanted to grind away at least 1/4 in from the cut edge, you're messing up your steel's microstructure doing this (see p. 111 under grain growth!)I appreciate the lengths he's gone to to describe heat treating, but had little luck with it myself; I would strongly advise against trying to heat-treat complex steels like D2, 440C, or 154CM yourself, unless you like throwing your work away.Finally, though I absolutely love the acid etchwork in the book, the beeswax/asphaltum etching ground recommended here is a very tempermental one, I would use commercial etching ground if I were doing this.Since messing with aqua regia at home is not the safest thing, I'd suggest looking into some of the other methods, such as electrochemical etching.So, I would say to the beginning knifemaker that I'd use this book for inspiration, but go elsewhere for methods.If at all possible, talk to someone who's been doing it a while.

Excellent Book to begin knifesmithing
I got this book out of my local library and I can't wait to get started making a knife.I've recently ordered a copy for myself.It will be edgeworn soon.This book is an excellent place to start making knives for the beginner, since Boye uses recycled steel.His explanations and diagrams and photos of the process are invaluable for this endeavor.I only wish he wrote one on folding knives.

Stock removal knife making and etching.
This book primarily covers making knives (mostly kitchen knives) by starting with thin plates of steel (HUGE bandsaw blades), cutting out a knife blank, and shaping the knife by grinding it.I personally far preferforging a blade, which this author does not even touch on.Read more

Subjects:  1. Art    2. Crafts & Hobbies / Metal Work    3. Crafts / Hobbies    4. General    5. Power Tools    6. Antiques & Collectibles    7. Crafts & Hobbies    8. Knives    9. Metal Work    10. Metal-work   

Reviews (1)

jig and fixture design
The book is very useful to the undergraduate students as well as practising engineers. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Design and construction    2. Drafting & Mechanical Drawing    3. Engineering - Mechanical    4. Jigs and fixtures    5. Power Tools    6. Science/Mathematics    7. Technology    8. Technology & Industrial Arts    9. Technical design    10. Technology / Technical & Manufacturing Industries & Trades   

Reviews (3)

A scholarly work on the American Bowie knife
Many knife collectors will welcome this edition to their bookshelves. The high numbers of high quality knifemakers and eager customers in recent years has created a natural interest in the early beginnings of the uniquely American Bowie knife that needs to be satisfied. Mr.Flayderman has heard the calling and has delivered in abundance. There is something for everybody in this book. The quality of documentary evidence is commendable and I even liked thepictures but don't think of this as a coffee table book. There is more here than can be covered in this humble review. The owner of this edition will return to it again and again and will glean yet another glimpse of our American history when the country was young and wild. If knives are of interest to you this book will serve.

bowie knife book
I purchased this book as a gift for my uncle.It is well worth the money!It is a coffee table-type book with thick heavy pages and LOTS of beautifully detailed photos.His only negative comment when I gave it to him was, "That is a dagger on the cover!" and He knows his knives!! I guess the publisher doesn't know what a bowie knife looks like.If you like bowie knives or know someone who does, this is a perfect book.

Bowie Book
Excellent book. I was a little leary of spending $80 bucks on a book but than remembered the last time, and did't purchase the "Antique Bowie Knife Book" Glad I did purchase this book I think it is everthing the Antique Bowie Book is and more. Wonderful pictures of Bowie knives as well as alot litature on them also. Nice addition is the actual pitures of people and the knives they carried.. If you area Bowie collector and don't own "The Antique Bowie Knife Book" you will be please with this If you do own it you may not think its woth it since alot of thwe same knives are covered ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Home Improvement / Construction    2. Hunting - General    3. Kitchenware    4. Power Tools    5. Sports    6. Sports & Recreation   

Reviews (2)

A must-have!
Synopsis (quote)
Worth every penny!
I haven't touched my Scroll Saw since High School (10+ years).I wanted to fire it up again and do a little more than cutting letters out of plywood.I bought this book primarily because it looked pretty extensive and was recently re-published.It mostly covers technique and has no patterns for stupid schlock like owl napkin holders.This book shows you what you can do with your saw from simple to complex.If you are a beginner or looking to increase your skill, this is a must have. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Do-It-Yourself    2. Home Improvement / Construction    3. House & Home    4. Jig saws    5. Power Tools    6. Woodwork    7. Woodwork - Tools    8. Woodworking    9. House & Home / Power Tools    10. STUDY NOTES - SparkNotes   

Reviews (4)

Wayne Goddard's $50 knife shop
My best basic book,will answer all your questions,and will get you started and on your way,if you are not new to knife building it will reinforce you knowledge even more..

Worth more than $50
I was hesitant on ordering this book, I've read or bought almost everything I can find relating to bladesmithing or blacksmithing.I got the book, and read it from front to back, then read it again.This book not only offers insight on how to make needed equipment, but also explains how to make knives of both stock removal, forging and wire damascus.I've never read a book on this subject where it felt like the author was talking directly to me, explaining things that I was thinking.This book is definitely one for the beginner smith.

Great book
I got this book last night and have read it cover to cover.Wayne gives great confidence to the beginner.Just the simple fact that you don't have to go broke to make knives is very fullfilling.Some great shop tips and good ways of looking at shop problems.Read more

Subjects:  1. Antiques & Collectibles    2. Antiques / Collectibles    3. Antiques/Collectibles    4. Firearms & Weapons    5. Knifesmiths    6. Knives    7. Outdoor Skills    8. Power Tools    9. United States    10. Tool making   

Reviews (5)

Chain Saw Service Manual (Clymer Pro Series CSS10)
The publication is exactly what I needed.Neither of my saw manufacturers makes a service manual available, and this publication covers them both -- carburetion, CD ignition air gap, plug gap -- right down to the bolt torque requirements, which are extremely critical with die cast parts and housings.

Fantastic Book
This book is ideal for a person with mechanical knowledge.
Comprehensive
Not necessarily the ideal book for a beginner.But if you have an old chainsaw you picked up at a garage sale (as I did), and know some basics about small engines (what a spark plug is, etc.), this is exactly what you need.Provides specs, tuneup instructions, and other maintenance/repair items.Good basic chainsaw information is provided, as well.But the real value is on the details about the various models. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Chain saws    2. Home Improvement / Construction    3. Maintenance and repair    4. Power Tools    5. Reference   

Reviews (4)

Simple, Straightforward, Instructive
A really excellent resource for a new or slightly experienced craftsman who would like a good introduction to getting more out of his/her tablesaw than the usual, basic cuts. Good photos, good explanations of the jigs, and most importantly: No time wasted discussing (ugh) "how to choose a table saw."
Practical and Accurate
I took a cabinet making class from Ken Burton last year.He's an exceptional craftsman with remarkable range.This book is very much like his class... there's no fluff.It's practical, accurate, and usable.

Exceptional Book
I feel like I'm repeating the gist of the first reviewer's comments, but it seems worth the effort.
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Subjects:  1. Circular saws    2. Do-It-Yourself    3. Home Improvement / Construction    4. House & Home    5. Power Tools    6. Woodwork    7. Woodwork - Tools    8. Woodworking   

Reviews (3)

Great source of ideas
Reading this book has prepared me well with ideas to consider in setting up my first real workshop when I move to a new house in the coming year.Good graphics and photos too!

Excellentinformation
The book gives outstanding ideas in all areas of building your workshop.Learned a whole lot from this book!Well worth the price. A+++ in my book

Best concise shop design book out now.
This is the best concise shop design book out now in my opinion. It covers quite a few areas in detail like lighting, adding a wood floor on top of concrete, dust collection issues, various layouts, essential tools, and more that make it an essential book. Aim high in making your shop as good as any tool you have or project you make.This book encourages that and helps you make wise, cost-effective decisions. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Design and construction    2. Do-It-Yourself    3. Equipment and supplies    4. Equipment, Appliances & Supplies    5. Home Improvement / Construction    6. House & Home    7. Machine Shop Practice    8. Power Tools    9. Woodworking    10. Woodworking tools    11. Workshops    12. Crafts & Hobbies / Woodwork   

Reviews (4)

One of the best lathe book I've used
I actually used this book to help me become more informed before I made a lathe purchase.
Save your money
As an advanced woodworker I decided to try my hand at turning so I purchased this book based upon the other reviews.The book is written in a confusing, disjointed, and rather condescending manner.Conover seems to want to impress with his "expertise" at the expense of clearly disseminating information. Good instructional presentation
Hey...before I read this book I was quite uncertain which way to approach the lathe.Read more

Subjects:  1. Crafts / Hobbies    2. Hobbies/Crafts    3. House & Home    4. Lathes    5. Power Tools    6. Turning    7. Woodwork - Tools    8. Woodworking    9. Crafts & Hobbies / Woodwork   

Reviews (6)

Joints with powertools
This is a top book on joints. This books deals exclusively with joints and is full of information.There are some jigs shown at the beginning with plans that will allow you to create some of the common or not so common joints.The book is written simply and is attractive.If you use your table saw a lot you will like this book but a router and bandsaw are used in some of the joints.In the back of the book there is a small gallery.If you ever had any questions about joints they are probably explained in this book.I am pleased with this book you should also be.

Engineered To Simplicity, A Powerful Book
Classic Joints with Power Tools by Yeung Chan is unique amongst books on wood working. Logical, concise, and written by someone with a wealth of experience. The unique thing is how adept he is in explaining it; yes, an excellent teacher.
Classic Joints with Power Tools
I know Yeung and have taken a number of classes with him.At first, I was surprised to hear that he was writing a book on power tools.He is the master of hand work skill and sensitivity.His philosophy of furnituremaking is one of respectfulness and thoughtfulness about the wood, the design of the peice and the process of creating it.This book on using power tools carries this philosophy through in the directness and clearity of his discritptions, explaination and instruction.His familiarity of the process of joinery is so complete that the information flows to the reader as if they are having a friendly converstaion with Yeung about the ins and outs of what to do and how to do it.I recommend this book fully. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Decorating    2. Home Improvement / Construction    3. House & Home    4. Joints (Engineering)    5. Power Tools    6. Woodworking    7. BG-HOUSE & HOME - BG-GARDENING    8. House & Home / Woodworking   

Subjects:  1. Chemistry - General    2. Engineering - General    3. Grinding and polishing    4. Home Improvement / Construction    5. Material Science    6. Power Tools    7. Science    8. Science/Mathematics    9. Tribology    10. Technology / Material Science    11. Technology: General Issues   

Features

• Illustrated

Subjects:  1. Crafts & Hobbies    2. General    3. Hobbies/Crafts    4. Power Tools    5. Reference    6. Engineering: general    7. MILLING-MACHINES    8. Metals technology / metallurgy   

Reviews (18)

A 2.5 star book
I was definetly not impressed by this book, not the caliber of the Table Saw Book or The Router Book. Not a lot of information that most woodworkers familar with a hammer and pliers did not already know.I would suggest the book be re-written with some added useful information.Jrl

Read before investing
Very informative to the bandsaw newcomer. It helped me make decisions about my purchase. Not too much on tricks of the operation, but worthwhile on basics.

Great information whether you plan to purchase a bandsaw or you already have one
This is a very well written publication with relevant information and clear illustrations from an experienced woodworker. Helps you determine how to choose the bandsaw for your needs. Also covers multiple other aspects including use, maintenance, blade selection etc. It was definitely worth the money. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Band saws    2. Crafts / Hobbies    3. Hobbies/Crafts    4. House & Home    5. Power Tools    6. Woodwork    7. Woodwork - Tools    8. Carpentry    9. Crafts & Hobbies / Woodwork    10. Woodworking   

Subjects:  1. Equipment, Appliances & Supplies    2. Home Improvement / Construction    3. Maintenance and repair    4. Power Tools    5. Repair    6. Science/Mathematics    7. Small gasoline engines    8. Electronics engineering    9. Transportation / Automotive / General   

Reviews (9)

Turning wood with Richard Raffan
An excellent book for the beginner to the art of woodturning. It is an invaluable item to have alongside the lathe

Excellent guide to turning
I ordered this book following rave reviews on other sites. I have to say I am not disappointed. The way Raffan teaches is simple and to the point. This book should be considered a bible for woodturners.

Turning Wood with Richard Raffan
Book was excellent !Lots of info and easy to use.
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Subjects:  1. Crafts / Hobbies    2. Hobbies/Crafts    3. House & Home    4. Lathes    5. Power Tools    6. Turning    7. Woodwork - General    8. Woodworking    9. Crafts & Hobbies / Woodwork   

Subjects:  1. Machine-shop practice    2. Machine-tools    3. Machinery    4. Manufacturing    5. Power Tools    6. Science/Mathematics    7. Technology    8. Technology & Industrial Arts    9. Environmental Engineering & Technology    10. Technology / Machinery   

Reviews (9)

Mostly the same as the other reviews.
Old info cut in with some monster garage stuff.It was damn near nothing new.

Gives you search engine ammunition
Ok this is the first book I have purchased on welding and I have never welded before.Figured this book would be on the same track as me since I wanted to learn about automotive welding.So if you're like me and you buy this book expecting to learn the ropes on that stick welder in your garage than this book is more like a gateway.Trying to read about welding from square one with this book made me feel like I lied on a job application and was in over my head.After reading the sections that pertained to what I would be doing a couple of times, staring at my welder, and scratching my head for a while I started to form some questions as if I knew what I was talking about.So after much searching and reading from other sources I finally bought a small box of welding rods and some scrap metal to play with.
Very good
Very good coverage of tube welding , motorcycle/bicycle/aeroplane type tubing including some on vacuumchamberweldingtitanium.
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Subjects:  1. Automotive - General    2. Do-It-Yourself - General    3. Home Improvement / Construction    4. Power Tools    5. Transportation    6. Motor cars: general interest    7. Transportation / Automotive / General