Because the chuck key is so small and short, releasing a bit from my drill press stresses my wrist and fingers more than anything else I do in the shop. My simple solution was to add a small wood handle that gives me much better leverage and a comfortable grip. I cut a 4-in. length from a 11⁄2-in.-dia. dowel, drilled the right-size hole in one end, and shaped the handle with a rasp and sandpaper. It works like a charm.
Jim Richey
None
Fine Woodworking Recommended Products
Grizzly G0495X Industrial Helical Cutterhead 8-in. Jointer
Regardless of the board’s grain, this jointer produced excellent results. Its fence was totally flat, worked smoothly, and locked well, staying in place even after jointing multiple edges. Getting the fence to 90° was very easy, but the 90° stop was a little tricky to set and the fence did not go back to square when using it. For those who would use it, there is also a digital depth-of-cut scale.
DeWalt 735X Planer
At high speed, the planer works fast and leaves a smooth surface. But the slower, finish speed produces an almost glass-smooth surface. Knife changes are easy.
Ridgid EB4424 Oscillating Spindle/Belt Sander
With five spindles sized from 1/2 in. to 2 in. and a 4 X 24-in. belt, this sander has become a staple in many a shop Fine Woodworking visits.
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