One day about twenty years ago Dave asked me if I was interested in offering his series of books on building machine tools from scrap for practically nothing. They're written for the guy who'd love to buy a lathe but is broke --- in other words, most of us. He told me he had been building lathes for more than 20 years!

I said I was interested, but as usual, a little skeptical. When I saw his books, I was amazed. And I'm still amazed.

Dave has proven that you can start with simple handtools and can build precision machine tools. First, you set up a simple foundry and pour castings to build a lathe. You then use the lathe to build the shaper which will cut the dovetails, T-slots, and gears for the milling machine. Next, you build the drill press. Finally, you can go back and build the accessories you need for your lathe and other tools: dividing head, screw-cutting gears, chucks, and lots more. A handy sheet metal brake is thrown in for good measure.

his books ............ his politics ?!? ............... how he approaches machine shop projects

Dave is magician! Give this guy a file, your aluminum storm door, and some charcoal, and he will turn it into precision machine tools! And he has shown thousands of others how to do it too!

As you build each machine, Dave teaches you new skills in foundry, mechanics, and machining. When you're done, you end up with a complete machine shop that you have built, you can use expertly, and you can repair should something go wrong. And best of all, you're a pretty darned good machinist.

I've never seen a series of books like this, and I don't think I ever will again. I may sound like a sideshow barker, but it's all true. Dave's books have become metal working classics. If you don't have a complete set yet, order those you're missing. Don't put it off. ... ---Lindsay