We put tons of tools to the test in the December 2005 issue of Popular Woodworking in order to pick the best new tools of 2005.
Find the best price on the best drill as we put 14.4v cordless drills through real-world tests.
We take 10 common joints, drop an anvil on each one and learn some surprising lessons about joint strength and modern glue.
Our endurance test features what may be the best marking gauge ever.
We test holdfasts that really work, the Lap-Sharp Sharpening System and a cordless tool that acts as if it had a power cord.
Learn the untold story behind Shaker construction methods as Kerry Pierce visits the Pleasant Hill, KY Shaker community.
Bob Flexner shows you how to keep your spray gun operating like new.
Adam Cherubini reveals the mysteries of his last year’s Hand Tool Arts & Mysteries column.
Our Woodworking Essentials supplement continues with Casework Construction: Case Joinery.
Lonnie Bird takes you step-by-step through the process of constructing lipped drawers.
All this plus your letters, answers to your woodworking questions and more.
Detailed article previews are below. Online extras can be found here.
By Christopher Schwarz Pages: 61-65 From the December 2005 issue #152 Buy this issue now We test a fair number of tools and machines here at Popular Woodworking, but some years generate a different crop of “Best New Tools” than other years. In 2005, we actually didn’t get to test as many of the serious … Read more
By David Thiel Pages: 45-52 From the December 2005 issue #152 Buy this issue now In chapter three of our continuing look at case construction we’re going to take a look at many of the most practical joinery possibilities for building casework furniture. As you might imagine, this is a huge topic. Casework runs the … Read more
A furniture maker visits the Pleasant Hill, Ky., community and unearths a fair number of surprises (nails!) about Shaker joinery. By Kerry Pierce Pages: 38-44 From the December 2005 issue #152 Buy this issue now If you’re planning to stay at the restored Shaker Village at Pleasant Hill, Ky., I have some advice: At dawn, … Read more
Revealing centuries-old secrets to working quickly and efficiently. By Adam Cherubini Pages: 32-36 From the December 2005 issue #152 Buy this issue now Arts & Mysteries is a phrase that oft appears in the contracts or indentures between master craftsmen and their apprentices. Exact usage varies, but the context is usually something like “… the … Read more
By Christopher Schwarz Page: 10 From the December 2005 issue #152 Buy this issue now Just about every day we get at least one call from a reader who wants assistance with selecting a tool or machine. And I’m always amazed by both how much research they’ve done and how misguided it usually is. Part … Read more
