Shopsmith Forums

Ed in Tampa wrote:You make my point, you have $600 invested in something if bought new would cost $4000+ . And you probably paid on the high end as others have reported buying similar for less.

I paid $250 for the base unit with an old Magna Band Saw, the $70 for a Magna jointer (w/reconditioned bed & blades, shipping and all), $20 for the live center, $50 for caster sets, $50 for all of the center spikes for turning & a Jacobs chuck for $20; then the $50 for the carbide bowl gouge, and about $100 for all the stuff at Harbor Freight, and another $100 for pen supplies and mandrels, etc. at Woodcraft. So, actually about $760 +/- for enough stuff to make pens, turn bowls & pens, and what I really bought it for was to make guitars. I have about 15 Telecaster-style necks in process and 5 Tele style bodies. I am just learning so I am going pretty slow.

I have been ogling the Shopsmiths since the old TV Infomercials of the '80's and with limited space and very shallow pockets this is a pretty good setup. I know folks that spend $700 for a good band saw, so I think I am ahead of the game.

Chill Ed! You are correct both re the depreciation and the need to prepare her for the shock.

However Bill is in the same position as Rob(even though a continent separates them). It is not worth as much to him as to someone else(that difference is called his potential profit). I emphasize potential because tis a gamble he would be taking.

I have not seen an answer to the 'what did you originally want do with it?' question. That answer relates to the alternatives proposed as to whether they are relevant.

Not asked(yet) is what you expected hubby to contribute to this endeavor.

I think some hard self examination re your initial objectives is in order. You may have already done so and concluded abandonment is the correct course at this point.

As has been pointed out, salvaging cost is not likely. Look for some deserving charity(or person) and donate it to them and take a tax writeoff if feasible.

Otherwise try the other suggestions re independence and learning endeavors.

bdnightingale wrote:I am in Fort Myers, Florida

I certainly hope you stick it out to get enough of a feeling about it to know if you might enjoy many years of it....and its been proven that women have a more sensitive touch than men, which would make you a better woodworker from the start!!!.....i've been doing it for over fifty years, starting as a ten year old making stick and tissue model airplanes. still doing airplanes and woodworking.......it makes the stressful moments in the day go away!!!!!!!! and i got to 63 years old before i got my first real wood shop......

if you get up Titusville way, let me know and ya'll are welcome at our house for coffee.......and a tour of my shop i built with my own hands.......

take care, bill