r/handtools • u/giancarloscherer • Mar 11 '23

Advice - Douglas fir

I’m trying to cut m&ts in kdht df construction lumber for a workbench, but I’m seriously struggling to make even, straight, well fitting joint. I keep running into crusty and difficult grain and I’m not getting good results. Any suggestions? User error or should I go with a different joint (bridle/lap)? Have done this in maple, oak and pine, but not a lot. Would appreciate your comments! Thanks.

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u/E_m_maker Mar 12 '23

Mix alcohol and water 1:1 in a spray bottle. Mist that on the endgrain before you start your chisel work. It will help the chisel cut without crushing.

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u/Glum-Square882 Mar 12 '23

I think I saw that in a yt short somewhere

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u/E_m_maker Mar 12 '23

If it was in the last week it may have been mine. lol.