jgwpat

Jamie; I am in complete agreement with you and with probably 95% of the other woodworkers who have responded to this story.

In my way of thinking, this story is a prime example of the big difference between the Legal System and the Justice System. And there is indeed a DIFFERENCE. Too often the Legal system is used to try to obtain justice. The legal system is making everyone responsible for the actions of a few stupid, inept or careless persons.

That having been said, I am considering the replacement of my table saw with a SawStop. The reason - I have been using woodworking tools and machines for over 70 years without anything more than a little nick. I was well taught safety in a school class shop. Having turned 80 last year and still woodworking, I am more aware of my slightly reduced capabilities and lessening attention span and I want to continue enjoying my shop activities with all digits intact for a long time yet.
Joe

This is certainly one book I want to read and have on my shelf. I thoroughly enjoy building Windsor Chairs and would be delighted to win this book. I'm a real optimist so will wait until next week's drawing BEFORE ordering my copy.
Joe

Just treated myself to a Dewalt planer for my 80th birthday and it is great. Now I need a bigger dust collector, then an 8" Jointer, a new unisaw and if Santa hears this and delivers ??? I will then need a new bigger shop to get everything in ! I simply cannot imaging a life without a good shop. I really have been a good (old) boy Santa.

As most of the other postings have implied, there are many more differences than simple physical measurements of these planes. Steel quality of the castings and irons are two main things that determine quality and neither of these were mentioned in the FW article ! However, I find it most disappointing to see the absence of any mention of Lee Valley, when someone writes an article about quality tools. To me the FW article lacks credibility ! Although I do have some off shore tools, I try to buy North American Quality wherever possible, just as I try to patronize my local/regional food and wine producers and restaurants. I have never been disappointed with an owner operated restaurant of an owner operated tool source - (read Lee Nielsen - Lee Valley). One of the reasons we work with wood is for the pride and satisfaction we obtain from a finished product. Part of the satisfaction comes from using tools you are proud to own.
jgwpat

As a charter subscriber of FWW I certainly concur with all of the above comments and opinions. I work with wood because I thoroughly enjoy the complete process of thinking or dreaming of a project - trying to visualize an approach and anticipate the problems - beginning the work - actually becoming totally involved with the project and seeing it through to completion. While I do hope the end product will be successful and appreciated, my primary satisfaction comes from simply doing it. I build Windsor chairs - wooden boats/canoes and other furniture and am always looking forward to beginning the next project just as I look forward to the next issue of FWW.
Joe