Ten Plane Challenge.

Re: Hand tool challenge

Dan Donaldson

>OK, I see how it would work. It makes more sense to me now. I would definately be interested in trying it, but the thing that I am not sure of is whether or not I would have many of the tools that would be required, particularly if metal planes or spokeshaves were not allowed. I think that I probably live far enough from most of the people that might have them that it would be a bit far to drive;-)

One other thing that might be of value. If we had the tool list and the project list, it might be a good excuse to find/make some more tools;-) It would also give me a good reason to clean up my shop before I started so that I would at least be able to find stuff. Unless this prior knowledge would compromise the intent of what we are doing, would it be acceptable to get the lists and then find the materials/tools that we would need before starting?

Also, at the end of the day, would the criteria be how close we came to the time allotted and the quality of the piece that we build?

These are probably dumb questions, but it does sound like something I would definately like to try, if I can make it practical to do so.

Regardless, I think that it is great that you are willing to take your time to set something like this up. It sould be interesting.

Re: Hand tool challenge ... corking the bat

Adam Cherubini, NJ

>No. We're more interested in function than form. Modern versions of old tools would be fine. To draw bore raised panel door for example, the traditional tool is a center bit. I'm guessing most guys don't own center bits so a brad point twist bit can be substituted. You can turn that bit with an egg beater or an electric drill motor. The lesson is the same more or less.

We'll focus on the prize (the actual learning experience) but you can choose to dive as deep or shallow as you choose. We should try our best at least to complete our projects with the electricity turned off.

Now this is just my opinion. We can change the rules to match our needs.

Adam

Adam, one other thing.

Dan Donaldson

>This thread is quite a ways down and might not be seen by everyone. It might be a good idea to start a new thread just for this and copy your post to it. If there appears to be enough interest, we could put a copy of stuff on the events board so that it doesn't scroll away and point to it periodically.

Re: Hand tool challenge

Adam Cherubini, NJ

>I think that I probably live far enough from most of the people that might have them that it would be a bit far to drive;-)

I'm not sure what you mean, but I picture mailing tools to guys. Depending on how many guys participate, shipping may have to be covered entirely by the borrower. (I have a pretty extensive collection of spares). Initially, at least, I was thinking we could each pay postage. Metal planes are in, so no worries there. I may suggest certain advantageous set-ups/tunings.

would it be acceptable to get the lists and then find the materials/tools that we would need before starting?

Yeah, I can put together the master tool list pretty quickly. Its a matter of looking in a couple books.

Also, at the end of the day, would the criteria be how close we came to the time allotted and the quality of the piece that we build?

Here's how I picture it. There'd be no judging. I'd offer criteria by which you could judge your own work. Guys could post pictures as they complete their projects. Because of the requirements, they won't all look the same. It might be fun to see how different individuals approach the problem and it would be fun to see their "period" tools. Otherwise, I think you have the right idea. You want to shoot for good enough, and fast.

Adam

Sounds like fun.

Dan Donaldson

>I think I am in. I still think that it might be a good idea to start the whole challenge as a new thread so that more people will see it. I agree that the prize is the experience.

Re: Sounds like fun.

Robert Tarr

>I am in! Sounds like a good chance to tune up some tools and some skills and to take a bit of a different approach/mindset to tasks in a project. Now I really need to get that leg vise mounted.....

Robert

Re: Hand tool challenge *LINK*

Jonathan Peck -N.Y.

>This sounds like fun, count me in. I'd like to see as many try the challenge, no matter the skill level, but lets make it a group project with prizes.. I'd like to submit the following for consideration.

1) relax the tool requirement to muscle powered only.

2) agree that dimensioned lumber is acceptable

3) Let's make a simple project..Chris Swingly has on his website a number of these with plans and cut lists. I picked one that's not to simple, uses several hand techniques, standard tools most will have already, and has a description of the actual project being built with pictures. This might increase participation. What do you think?

The information is there for any to use, but I can e-mail Chris to ask for permition if there is any concern.


Magazine Cabinet

Re: Hand tool challenge

Rob in Kansas

>Sounds fun! Count me in too!

One thing...with you shipping out all those sharp blades I don't want the FBI thinking your shipping weapons all over the country! I could stop by your shop for a weekend so you wouldn't get a visit from the men in black! ;-)

I'll keep an eye out for the final plans.

Rob

I'm in

Jack Guzman from Maine

>Adam,I like the sound of that also. For what it's worth,I'll give it my best shot. It sounds like a good exercise and I need a challenge to motivate me. Count me in.---Jack

Re: Hand tool challenge

Dan Donaldson

>That sounds like fun too, but I think it might be interesting to try it the way Adam is suggesting. He gives a list of specific projects with times and a list of approved and banned tools. You have to figure out how to make it yourself and them do it. No plans, or real direction. His way might also be a good segue into what you are suggesting, as his list is primarily practice pieces and not meant necessarily to be built into anything. Just my $.02 ;-)