METAL IN THE WOOD SHOP
t some point in our woodworking pursuits, most of us work a bit of metal in the shop. Whether we incorporate it in our work for structure or decoration, or use it for workshop jigs and fixtures, metals—mostly soft metals such as brass, copper, and aluminum—are comfortably at home in the wood shop. One fact is guaranteed: Cutting and smoothing metal is a challenge due to its inherently much harder (and sharper!) nature. The good news is that typical woodworking tools like the bandsaw, table saw, drill press, and miter saw will do a fine job of cutting these materials as long as you take a few precautions. Throw in a hacksaw, and you’ve just about got a complete metalworking shop—for
