Two weeks ago we received all of the components for the Jointmaker Pro–holy cow, I have never seen a BCTW project with so many parts! Prior to anodizing the aluminum parts, we assembled one unit and the results are…

Spectacular—in every sense! For those that have seen the prototype in action, the production version features over 80 changes and all I can say is I thought the prototypes were cool, but now, like everyone else waiting for delivery, I CAN’T WAIT to get mine!

Parts come back from the anodizer this week and they are off to the laser house next week. Packaging for both versions (unassembled and assembled) are finalized, and we have decided to forgo a written assembly manual for a DVD or web-based assembly tutorial which we will finish next week. Lastly, the saw blades should arrive from Japan any day now (it took 4 months to make all of these blades).

We also decided to do a little bit of sub-assembly work for the unassembled versions for those who have limited assembly experience. Now, all one needs is to be able to do is insert and tighten screws.

While the components were being manufactured I took the JMP on the road to a couple of the Lie-Nielson Hand Tool Events (if you can go to one of these, they are intimate, fun and educational). One thing became apparent to me after demonstrating this tool for eight hours straight—my back ached.

As a result, we redesigned the stand so the back of the Jointmaker Pro is now 3” higher than the front. This accomplishes two important things, it shortens the sawing stroke and it makes it easier to see your cuts. It is one of those counter-intuitive decisions that really makes using the tool fun. I demonstrated this change to show attendees and everyone agrees this is an awesome improvement. Whether you use our stand, or make your own, we recommend inclining the Jointmaker Pro without hesitation.

As those patiently waiting know, we have taken our time to make sure the user experience is going to be as flawless as possible. We can’t wait to learn how our owners use this transformative tool—it truly changes your perspective on project ideas.

Lastly, I am on the second week of my annual two-week work retreat. I would have posted this update last week but I am in Utah and forgot the password into my blog…

This whole password thing is really getting to be an issue for my aging brain.

–John

Of all the tools we have produced over the past 25 years, the Centerscribe has never left the top ten for good reason–the Imperial measurement system makes it easy to make time-consuming and frustrating mistakes (example; divide 7-13/16″ in half, or thirds…).

We have made significant improvements to this popular tool and I am pleased to share this brief overview;

• Eliminated backlash by replacing the rack and pinion drive with a closed-loop cable. It is smoother and a joy to use.
• Eliminated binding issues in humid environments by replacing the wooden arms with aluminum arms
• Added the ability to insert a mechanical pencil (number one request)
• Added the ability to find center on cylindrical stock without using guide pins
• Added the ability to find center on square/rectangular stock without using guide pins
• The CS-2 has the ability to accept accessories
• First accessory is the mortise/tenon attachment

The little movie below illustrates how easy it is to use the CS-2 for all of your centering requirements. In addition, pay particular attention to the new mortise/tenon attachment – it is incredibly useful. For example, say you have a table leg that is 1-3/4″ square and you are going to attach stretchers that are 3/4″ thick using a 1/2″  tenon. This means you need to layout the 1/2″ tenon on the 3/4″ stock and the 1/2″ mortise on the 1-3/4″ square leg.

With the new mortise and tenon attachment this is a math-free breeze. Simply set the attachment to 1/2″ using the built-in scale, secure in place and make your scribe lines. At this point the thickness of your material does not matter because the 1/2″ setting will be perfectly centered on your stock each and every time without any math.

You have really never seen anything like it.

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For this week ONLY, we are offering free shipping when you purchase both the CS-2 Centerscribe and the new CS-2 Accessory. If you already own the CS-2 Centerscribe, you’ll get free shipping on the purchase of the Accessory. (The free shipping applies to any other in-stock items you add to your shopping cart as well!) Just use promotion code CS-2FREESHIP during order checkout. Much more information and regular web ordering details can be found here, or feel free to order by calling one of our friendly marketing associates at 800-253-3332.

And lastly, a belated Happy New Year!

John