Village Press

The Engine Lathe: For the beginner

Welcome back to Randolph's Shop. In this book, we look into the use and usefulness of the engine lathe, known by some as the "Queen of the Shop." It is said by many that the engine lathe is the only machine tool in the shop that has the ability to reproduce itself when in the hands of a capable machinst. "If (Heaven forbid!) I am ever told that I can have only one machine tool, it will be an engine lathe." -- Randolph Bulgin

The New Spruce Forge Manual of Locksmithing: a Blacksmith's Guide to Simple Lock Mechanisms is a totally revised and expanded version of the original work from 1999. This manual explains, in step-by-step color photos and mechanical drawings how to construct, using forging and benchwork, 14 different types of antique-style locks and keys.

Hardcover, 304 pages.

Many examples for beginners of operating a milling machine and all that goes with it, plus four great projects for the home machinist.

228 pages. Hardbound.

by Steve Acker

Steve goes to work on the lathe and mill to make an accurate custom bolt action hunting rifle. The result is a fairly light, stable and reliable firearm. He demonstrates techniques for truing the bolt face and lugs, threading and crowning a new barrel, recutting the receiver threads, machining the recoil lug, and much more. 2 hours 30 minutes

by Rudy Kouhoupt

Often, getting underway on a project -- reading the drawings and doing the required markup on the metal -- can be the most challenging part. Rudy discusses every layout tool from his vast collection and demonstrates its function. He also gives you a detailed look at mechanical drawings and how to interpret them. This tape is a must for every novice machinist. 1 hour 30 minutes.

Watch a brief clip from the DVD.