[lincpimp]

I am far from master status! But thanks for grouping me with the greats Jerry! I am flattered!

I usually cut al with a fine tooth metal blade in a std cheapo reciprocating saw, soem people call it a jig saw. You could use a sawzall, but they are not as handy as the jig saw, the blades are too wide to make good cuts in tight areas. Variable speed is handy too. Get some good metal files, they are very handy too. And a drill press, even the 50 dollar harbor freight kind are invaluable. Also buy a good set of drills, and some cutting oil while you are at it. I also have a bandsaw, but mainly use that for cutting plastic, it is not the best tool for cutting al or steel.

I do intend on buying a small mill, or combo machine (mill and lathe). Small ones can be had for less than 500 bucks and that would most likely let me hone my machine tool skills (which are non existant at the moment!)

Paitence is a good thing for doing metal work, Jerry is right about that one. You will have to make a few items and then you will get better, at least I had to do that!