steven antonucci
I think a lot of the benefit is in how you layout your workspace and your work pace. I used to have a rack of tools that had everything I owned in it. I took a bunch of the tools I do not use every day and put them in an empty drawer. Cut the clutter by half.

I layed the large bars I use for hollowing down. Visually, it is a lot easier to process. I may get to a day where I make one handle for all of the large bars I use, and put them away somwhere too.

Most of the time I turn, I only use 3-4 tools maximum on any project. I keep saying I will eventually get a rolling cart to put everything away. Having multiple handles more than doubles the storage requirements for things that may only be used sparingly.

I completely agree that the main advantage is being able to make a tool longer or shorter. I helped my buddy Bob drill his shop made aluminum handle 3" deeper yesterday to shorten it. Instant upgrade to the spindle gouge in it.

Steve