One of the advantages of learning the machining trade is that much of the knowledge you learn is cumulative and enduring. Many of the techniques discussed in this book were valid decades ago. Likely much of this information will be useful decades from now.

The suggestions offered in this chapter are going to include more information about common and possibly not so common shop practices. Some of these suggestions may seem obvious. I've always found that "obvious" hardly ever is. Ask ten different people a simple question like "What is a cone shaped edge finder used for"? You'll be amazed at the variety of responses you'll get.

1. Get creative when indexing parts. (See Fig. 6-1)

   
   Figure 6-1: Indexing parts for machining takes a little creativity. These photos show a few methods for indexing parts conventionally

   There are many ways to cut features relative to one another. There is no right or wrong way as long as your setup is rigid and accurate. One way is to use an indexing head. Another way is to use a V-block in combination with a machinist's square. Another way is to index on an existing feature and so on.

   CNC indexing heads are easy to program and can save a substantial amount of time. (See Fig. 6-2)

   
   Figure 6-2: CNC indexing heads are easy to use and can save a substantial amount of labor

2. Avoid clamping over air. (See Fig. 6-3)

   
   Figure 6-3: Clamping over "air" is almost always a bad idea. In this...