Two weeks ago I weakened and bought some saws, after falling in love with a
Disston handle.  I can't claim anymore that I don't go out buying tools.
(Except for once when I bought from the porch  -  it doesn't count.)

Well, Saturday I slipped even farther down the slope.  A patternmaker's pile
in the hands of a dealer.  And I slipped...
The dealer turned out to be a woodcarver who had happily skimmed off the
Buck chisels and hoped to recover by selling all that other stuff.

We had already developed a cooperative relationship, when I told him what to
look for in the "stuff" to make up some missing parts.  This week, he found
the pieces, so I was obligated to buy wasn't I?   I even took stuff I don't
need, won't use.  EEEEK!!!   40% off some average reasonable prices tho.

Whatever - it's done.  Now in the "keepers" is a Millers Falls brace,
beeeutiful,  and the 13 pc set of Jennings bits, 4 to 16.  (oops 7 & 9 are
missing).  It's OK, I have Irwins 7 & 9, except they have center shanks.
But the Jennings set looks like new, works better than new, having been
honed by a pro.  I haven't tried the brace / bit yet, but my son bored a
dozen holes in scraps and probably a couple extra into the deck.   "Gee,
Dad, this is really easy, pulled right through the 8x8 sill of the house,
thru the wiring...plumbing...the cat..."  

[a side thought - I'd never hand my 12 year old a 1/2 HP drill motor and a
1" spade bit, then turn my back,  without calling 911 in advance.  But had
no problem with this.] 

These bits sure look good lined up next to the extra long #15, 20, 32
Jennings bits.
Price was $4 ea. with the brace thrown in, when I asked for that deal.

Have I written enough lines to rationalize my slippage??
Gloat? I don't know, but I'm happy.  

Gene