Best of the Bits, volume 1

“Best of the Bits, Volume 1”

The newsletter of the ALABAMA FORGE COUNCIL, called “THE BITUMONOUS BITS” has always been one of the leading newsletters among ABANA chapters. In particular it was and still is one of the most prolific creators of new material. When I was newsletter editor, “THE BITUMONOUS BITS” was one of my favorite sources for items to reprint in our newsletter.

The ALABAMAM FORGE COUNCIL (AFC) has collected the best tips, and plans from the years 1985-1987 and placed them in a single 59-page publication. Most of these items were written and drawn by Jim Baston. Clay Spencer who edited this publication tried to make sure that everything presented here was sent in to or originated within the AFC. Most of the items were scanned in from the original newsletters, so sometimes the quality is not the best it could be. But even still, there is no problem with understanding what is being presented.

In the 46 different plans/articles included, there is a nice mixture of articles on techniques, tooling, and plans for items to make.

The fact that this is labeled as Volume 1 covering 1985-87 suggests that there will be future volumes coming out; something to look forward to.

At $14.00 the price may seem a little steep but it equates to about $.30 an article. Also, proceeds from the sale of this publication goes to the AFC Scholarship Fund, truly a worthy cause.

Book review by Albin Drzewianowski

-- AlbinDrzewianowski - 07 Jan 2008