We thought it would be an excellent opportunity to look back at 2024—our favorite shop upgrades, biggest projects, and lessons learned—and then peek ahead at what’s in store for 2025.
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Hosted by Brian BenhamPortfolio: https://www.benhamdesignconcepts.com/ Brian Benham on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/benhamdesignconcepts.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXO8f1IIliMKKlu5PgSpodQ
Greg Porterhttps://skyscraperguitars.com/ Greg On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gregsgaragekc/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/SkyscraperGuitars YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/GregsGarage
Show Notes Reflecting on 2024 and Looking Ahead to 2025: Shop Upgrades, Projects, and Goals Shop Upgrades That Made a Difference in 2024
- Organization & Tool Storage
One of the biggest game-changers for both of us was improving shop organization. A mechanic once said, "Don’t put it down—put it away." That mindset has helped keep tools in their proper places, eliminating the frustration of searching for misplaced items.
- Brian’s Upgrade: A high-quality toolbox (not just a basic Harbor Freight or Home Depot option) made a massive difference. A well-organized toolbox reflects a well-organized workflow.
- Greg’s Upgrade: Adding Husky cabinets under his table saw extension improved storage and accessibility.
- The Incra Miter Gauge
Brian recommended the Incra Miter Gauge, and it quickly became one of Greg’s most-used tools in 2024.
- Why It’s Great:
- Eliminates play in the miter slot for precise, repeatable cuts.
- Features an integrated stop block system (similar to high-end aftermarket options).
- Fine-adjustment capabilities make it perfect for exact angles.
Greg admits he was skeptical at first, preferring crosscut sleds, but after a year of use, he hasn’t touched his sled since.
- The Black Box Vacuum Pump for CNC Workholding
Greg’s Black Box vacuum pump transformed his CNC workflow.
- The Problem: Workholding on a CNC can be a nightmare—tabs, screws, and clamps often lead to failed cuts.
- The Solution: The vacuum pump holds sheets firmly in place, reducing material waste and improving efficiency.
- Success rate went from ~75% to 98%.
- Added automation: The CNC now turns the pump on/off automatically via relay control.
- The Track Saw Revolution
Greg was a longtime skeptic of track saws, preferring a circular saw and straightedge. But after breaking down hundreds of sheets of MDF, he caved and bought a Ridgid cordless track saw.
- Why It Won Him Over:
- Faster, more accurate breakdown of sheet goods.
- Paired with an MFT-style workbench (from Fred Sexton of Bristol Artisan Co.) and Bora Speed Horses, creating a portable, efficient cutting station.
- No more wrestling full sheets—everything gets broken down outside before entering the shop.
- The Festool Debate
Brian and Greg had a fun back-and-forth about Festool.
- Pros:
- Industry-leading dust collection (great for job sites and clean shops).
- The Domino joiner is a game-changer for furniture makers.
- Cons:
- High price tag.
- Some tools may not justify the cost for hobbyists or those who don’t need ultra-portability.
- Packout Systems & Tool Storage
Both Brian and Greg explored different modular storage systems (Milwaukee Packout, Klein, etc.).
- Greg’s Pick: Klein Tool Cases—expensive but rugged, with clear lids and customizable bins.
- Brian’s Experience: Packout systems are great for contractors but may be overkill for shop-only use.
- Harbor Freight’s Improvement
Greg noted that Harbor Freight’s quality has significantly improved over the years.
- Icon Tools Line: Their ratcheting wrenches and socket sets now rival mid-tier brands like Husky and Craftsman.
- Toolboxes: No longer the flimsy junk of the past—now a solid budget option.
Notable Projects from 2024
Brian’s Big Builds
- Las Vegas Casino Project: A massive, high-profile installation that pushed his team’s limits.
- Red Rocks Amphitheater Work: A challenging but rewarding project (technically la
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