Thanks again for all the info. I never thought I would get the feedback from this forum. It is obvious you guys love what you do. Now that you have been so much help on drilling the mortise I hve two other questions to go along with it. Should I use a 2" chisel or a 1-1/2 to clean up the mortise? I know that it is probably personal preference but I would love to hear your feedback. Also can someone steer me the right direction on a tenon and rip saw? What to look for in new and used. I would prefer to pay more for quality. By the way I scored one 2" auger bit on E-bay for $3.50 plus shipping. I received it yesterday and it is awsome shape. I waon another one for $10 yesterday. Hopefully that one will be as good. I have been looking at the slicks and chisels but don't really know what to look for. It sounds like the Barr chisels are the way to go if I buy new. debating on a 1-1/2 or 2".