I remember when the work bench was a vital part of the metalworking process. Parts were finished, deburred, and fitted at the bench. The term "benchwork" had a meaning. The bench was a sturdy affair with a wood top, so as to not mar finished parts. It was kept clean and had to be well lit. The tool box had to be kept seperate so as not to use valuable bench space. It was usually placed on a "roll-a-way" or other stand.
Filing was also an important part of the machining process. There are many types of files that are no longer made, and are a valuable find.
How many machinists now days know what a "cape chisel" is? or a "pillar file"? One of the really fun things about the growth of eBay, it that a lot of the old tools that may have just rusted their way into the trash, are listed for sale, and some real treasures can be found. (Along with some junk):).
Many times, the seller does not really know what they actually have. Some old tool found on some dusty shelf could very well be a real treasure for someone else.
It is sad that much of the old hard learned "tricks of the trade" are going to be lost forever, but a lot of the old tools can be saved. It is just a matter of finding them!
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