Great. Just a question: once you have a clear manufacturing process, tools, fixtures, etc., what’s the marginal time of effort to build just one more unit? Thanks for share!.
metalAddict,
With fixtures already built, a single reel takes about 60 hours. This could be significantly reduced if I had a larger lathe and mill. Probably could get it down to 30 hours.
Dave
Keenan,
I bought it at the giant auction site in the sky (we are on satellite internet service here). Research there shows two “classic” brands of wood tool chests: Gerstner and Union. This one is a Union, but was evidently sold by Sears.
Dave
North Branch Reels 
Great. Just a question: once you have a clear manufacturing process, tools, fixtures, etc., what’s the marginal time of effort to build just one more unit? Thanks for share!.
metalAddict,
With fixtures already built, a single reel takes about 60 hours. This could be significantly reduced if I had a larger lathe and mill. Probably could get it down to 30 hours.
Dave
I know the reels are the primary focus of the picture, but that classic Craftsman machinists toolbox is fantastic. It makes for a great backdrop.
Keenan,
I bought it at the giant auction site in the sky (we are on satellite internet service here). Research there shows two “classic” brands of wood tool chests: Gerstner and Union. This one is a Union, but was evidently sold by Sears.
Dave