My interest in building homemade tools resulted from several things. First, my father was an avid reader of Popular Mechanics,,, (the 1950's and early 60's when it had practical DIY stuff) and I spent a lot of time going through his vast collection of them as a boy. Second, he let me use his tools despite the fact that I didn't always put them back in the tool box. Dad died in an accident when I was 13 years old and mom raised myself and my 3 younger siblings on her own. Needless to say that funds were tight and if I wanted something I had to build it myself. Third, mom was an independent soul that believed and practiced DIY herself. She taught me to make do with what you have got.

As a result, I built all kinds of tools and gadgets from found parts. Recycling became a way of life. Old habits are hard to break away from so even though I now have all the tools that I need (and could buy those that I don't) I still make tools for the satisfaction of doing it.

My interests have changed over the years and at this stage in life (early 60's) I mostly build and repair firearms.

George