i have started work on handle #2! i know what to do this time around so it's a bit faster.
i'm also getting less afraid to push the machine harder in alu. it's not very rigid, so surface finish ends up poor, but its 0.75 horsepower is plenty for fairly deep cuts if that's not a concern. so i'm setting up to take a lighter finish cut at the end.
another little bit of evening machining! i continued on handle #2 — it's starting to look like something now.
unfortunately i milled down my little fixture too much, so i'll need to fix that (probably by milling deeper into the plastic and making a new nub again). but that's something for tomorrow
after this i also rounded that boss that's still square in the picture. and i did the same to the other handle.
for those keeping score at home: one handle is now basically done, the other needs a counterbore i forgot to do so i can attach the knob.
i think i'm going to remove the tool marks with some sandpaper, too. then i gotta tidy up and start thinking about my next project
update: the thrilling conclusion to the Handle Saga is now available here!