Books and Tools Query

[TheEmptyCell]

I'm interested in doing some more in depth work on instruments, now that I'm getting better at setups and wiring, and I'd like to get some fret and nut working tools, a Dremel-type tool, and some other odds and ends.

There's been mention of a book that describes ways of making some tools, as compared to paying a lot more for one-job tools from someplace like Stew-Mac, but I can't remember the author for the life of me. Anybody know what I'm talking about?

I know I need a good quality straight-edge, 36" long, and some files, but does anyone have a recommendation for the kind of files needed for fret and nut work?

Finally, I'd like to get a Dremel tool so that I can do some routing for pickups and the like. Any recommendations there?

Thanks in advance!

[Rickett Customs]

Originally Posted by TheEmptyCell

I'm interested in doing some more in depth work on instruments, now that I'm getting better at setups and wiring, and I'd like to get some fret and nut working tools, a Dremel-type tool, and some other odds and ends.

LMII and Stewmac a 2 places to start with fretting and nut working tools (Also gives you a god idea what to look for). Although some are expensive, you can always search the nets for other places to obtain *some*.

[quote=TheEmptyCell;8748806]There's been mention of a book that describes ways of making some tools, as compared to paying a lot more for one-job tools from someplace like Stew-Mac, but I can't remember the author for the life of me. Anybody know what I'm talking about?[/qoute]

There are sites that do this very thing, just takes some searching around to do.

Originally Posted by TheEmptyCell

I know I need a good quality straight-edge, 36" long, and some files, but does anyone have a recommendation for the kind of files needed for fret and nut work?

You'll need some "needle" files (small files) some folks like using the gauged saws, that stewmac has. Also, some folks like the abrasive "cord" material that comes in different gauges instead.

Originally Posted by TheEmptyCell

Finally, I'd like to get a Dremel tool so that I can do some routing for pickups and the like. Any recommendations there?

Thanks in advance!

IME, IMO.... Don't use a dremel for this purpose, rather use a dremel for smaller jobs. My suggestion is to get a router. Doesn't have to be a big router either. I have a few routers, but favor the Bosch palm router for most work.

[mikeyswood]

Porter Cable 690 for your first router. It is the Fender of the tool world.

As for book - there is a great novel being written about not only tools, but also technique. Here is a link to it. Keep in mind that it is a work in progress.

[Rickett Customs]

Originally Posted by mikeyswood

Porter Cable 690 for your first router. It is the Fender of the tool world.

As for book - there is a great novel being written about not only tools, but also technique. Here is a link to it. Keep in mind that it is a work in progress.

Ha, I like the link .

[Ruckus_Instrmts]

Originally Posted by mikeyswood

Porter Cable 690 for your first router. It is the Fender of the tool world.

As for book - there is a great novel being written about not only tools, but also technique. Here is a link to it. Keep in mind that it is a work in progress.

Any ETA as to when it will be finished?

[TheEmptyCell]

Thanks for the info guys. I've tried the search a couple of times, but there's a mountain of artifacts to sift through, and I didn't bring my dental pick.