This is a small box used to verify handgun sizes for IDPA shooting matches at one of the GADPA (Atlanta, GA) local area matches. If the gun fits in the box (and complies with the other requirements for the guns based on division), the shooter can use it. So, to paraphrase the inimitable Johnnie Cochran, if it doesn’t fit, you can’t shoot it.

I made this one out of bamboo flooring that’s been planed to ~1/2” thick. My next one will probably be made out of oak. I’ll stick with the same thickness but go with finger joints instead of mitered corners. The hinges and handle are made out of bamboo, as well, but the grain direction is different. The logo is engraved on the cover.

Lessons learned:

Bamboo makes splinters – lots and LOTS of splinters.

Making wooden or, in this case, grass hinges is a trip. I originally tried using the Jointech jig but I like the Incra jig better. The Jointech jig I have is good for two diameters and 1 width; the Incra jig will make 4 different diameters and up to 10” wide. Being of simple mind, I confuse easily, so I can’t blame all this on the jig.

WOW!! Three projects in 1445 days. Guess I better get busy!!

This is a pair of lamp pulls that I turned for a friend of my Dad’s. These are oak, I think, possibly ash. I can’t identify the wood and the pallet factory didn’t stamp the type of wood it was on the bottom of the pallet. But . . . the price was right.

The double-ended pull is about 2.5” long and has a 3/8” threaded nipple running all the way through it. The other one is about 2.25” and the nipple only goes into the wood about 1/2”.

The mandrel was a 3/8” steel rod in a drill chuck with a 3/4” long keyway a little less than 1/8” deep. A short lenght of 1/8” steel rod makes up the difference and grips the blank a lot better than the rod alone. I can remove the tailstock a bit earlier in the turning process. Makes for a bit more creative license. (I need all the creative license I can get.) If you opt to use the steel rod, cut some extras. The pile of sawdust beneath the lathe – it EATS those little metal pins. Like a clothes dryer eats socks.

This is a small hand mirror (5” glass) that I made for our daughter for Christmas. It’s bead-blasted Brazilian Cherry. The templates were made out of hardboard (round outline) and acrylic sheet (the “M”). Basically cut the outer profile, sand the blank, stick the templates to it, and blast away!!

Two things I might do differently next time ‘round. First, I’d finish the blank before I stuck the templates to it. I used double-sided carpet tape and it had a tendency to leave a little adhesive behind. It came off OK with acetone but, in a softer grained wood, it would probably take the fibers rather than leave the glue. Second, bead-blast a little deeper. That, however, is a matter of personal preference.

Whit