Hey Pringles, take a deep breath.
Try using the various tools and methods of drilling, chopping, cutting mortices. See what works best for your muscles, your budget, your time, your pleasure, and even your philosopy of timber framing (which is discussed w much enthusiasm on another thread somewhere here).
You're an engineer so I bet you have an idea what things cost to design, build, distribute, warranty, inventory parts for etc. Most of us buyers and users, and sellers of used tools in the TFG are pretty savvy and honest, and are willing and enthusiastic to help others with advice and with fair dealings. The distibutors of new TF tools that we all buy from have good reputations.
Anybody who's cutthroat or dishonest would be exposed pretty quickly and would be discredited and gone. I think on Ebay you should be much more wary.
I had a customer here in NY who told me her cousin in Missouri had an addition put on her house for $30,000, so she thought that's what her budget for her project should be. Illogical with beginning manipulative negotiations......
Attend a Guild function, workshop or rendezvous - try some tools out and have fun learning w other enthusiasts. Also look for a course or class being given by someone near you. Don't be afraid to open up your check book, it'll be money well spent if you are diligent and positive.
Steve
