Tips & Tricks News & Views That looks familiar RIKON’s “new” saw featured in the April/May issue (p. 13) looks a lot like the Craſtsman I’ve had for a few years. And I think Ridgid makes one too. But whether it is RIKON, Rigid, or Craſtsman I can attest to the veracity of Mr. Snyder’s review. It has been a rock-solid saw, does everything I ask of it, and is much better than what is usually called a “contractor” saw. —Steve Robinson, Hagerstown, Maryland Your review of the RIKON 10" Contractor saw reminded me a lot of my Craſtsman. But it seems to me, based on the descriptions in the Expert Answers section (p. 68), that the Rikon should be classified as a hybrid saw. —Mike Bracket, via email RIKON product manager Rod Burrow replies: Most saws originating from the Asian market share common lineage but are made in different factories. RIKON uses the term contractor for saws with an open stand, built-in mobility, and that are light enough to take to a jobsite. Hybrid saws are usually heavier with a more enclosed cabinet. The similarities between our contractor saw and a typical hybrid are motor horsepower and trunnions mounted to the table. Bonding over glue-ups I just read “The 5 Stages of Gluing-Up” on page 72 of the Feb/Mar 2020 issue. It’s perfect. I’m glad to know that I’m not the only one who feels this way. A similar article could be written about finishing. Glue-ups and finishing give me the most anxiety in the shop. Keep up the good work. —Kyle Meyer, Parkersburg, WV 16 Shooting for perfection I enjoyed the 3-in-1 Shooting Board article (p. 26) in the April/May 2020 issue. However, as I consider the accuracy of this process, I suspect that the design relies on proper plane adjustment to cut squarely. Could you discuss a method to perfectly square the blade to the plane body? I look forward to shaving pieces by a few thousandths. —Bill Sherman, via email Craig Bentzley replies Start by ensuring that the blade is sharp and that its business edge is square to its sides. Then, advance the blade and inspect its relation to the sole. To do this, hold the plane upside down and sight down its length to laterally adjust the blade to be parallel (side-to-side) to the sole. Finally, take a few swipes on the edge of a piece of scrap and check the board with an accurate machinist’s square, and adjust accordingly. n How to reach us [email protected] Direct Mail Email Woodcraft Magazine, 4420 Emerson Ave., Suite A, Box 7020, Parkersburg, WV, 26102-7020. Please include your full name, address, and phone number. Published letters are edited for length and clarity.
