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Hi, I’m contemplating my first model engine build. I’m leaning toward a cast kit. Stuart seems to have a good reputation, and a price to go with it. How does Stuart compare to PM, et al? What’s a good starter kit? Should I build a steam plant (intimidating) or build an engine first and run...

I have a cheap Dremel knock-off set that is underpowered, slow, and frustrating to use. I've thought about replacing it with a Foredom tool. Of course once the decision was made that I need something better, down the rabbit hole I went. I'm now thinking an air pencil grinder might be a good...

I'd like to get some 3/8" x 3/8" HSS tooling blanks. The US-made ones from MSC are pretty expensive. I've found some Chinese blanks for what seems to be a too-good-to-be-true price of ~$1@ for a lot of 50. Does anyone have experience with Chinese tool steel? What other options are there for...

I'm acquiring a few machine tools (and skills) and am toying with dipping my toe in the model engine pool to learn how to use what I've acquired. I've got a 10" x 31" Logan lathe, drill press, and assorted hand tools and measuring devices. I don't have a mill (yet). What kits or plans would...

Are there any V8 engine "kits" (castings, maybe crank and cams) that exist, and if so where? Thanks in advance.

After a long search and many near-misses, I finally picked up a lathe--a Logan 816, which I'm guessing dates from the late 40s (SN 47696). The seller dealing with his father's estate, and while the lathe hadn't been used in over 10 years, it had been well oiled and kept dry so is in pretty...

I just came across attractively priced lathes and mills from Weiss. What experiences do people here have with Weiss? How do they compare to other Chinese machine tools? Thanks!

Hi, I've renewed my interest in machining as a result of my watch obsession. I have a technical (metallurgical engineer, but focused on semiconductors) background, but have never gotten around to do much metal work. I'm looking forward to teaching myself the basics, and ask for your patience...