Earlier thread asked about most often used tolls (stationary, as it
happens).

Different question. What tool do you just like to use? Be it a kick,
or a zen experience, it's the one you just look for an excuse to grab.

My coping saw. It doesn't get used much, but I LOVE the feel of it in
my hand when I need to cope something.

Why? Because it's the first tool I ever bought; I picked it up at a
garage sale when I was about 10 or thereabouts.

Is that the only reason? I've had a coping saw since I was about that age
and I hate it. Sometimes it's the only tool for the job, but for some
reason I can never get mine to work well. The blades always seem to bend; I
can't even make a flat cut in 1/2" thick pine, it seems.

If someone told me, "Your saw is no good, neither are your blades; here's
where you go to buy one that works..." I'd listen and give it a try.

I did buy a fret saw with about the same luck. I fancied myself doing
beautiful inlays, you know, the kind that have the 7 degree sloping edges so
they drop right in place and fit perfectly after a little sanding. I
haven't produce a single one yet.

Bah. Humbug.

Today I painted spruce 2x4s. (Select. "Premium Quality" says Home Depot.
What a joke.) Now there's fine woodworking for you.

- Owen -