Holy cow, I thought I recognized your voice. I used to subscribe to your channel several years ago. Somehow I got unsubscribed. I'm glad I found you again. I agree with you, this is an awful lot of machine for the price. A single speed 1x30 with a 1/3 hp motor will cost you about $50. I've seen a few videos on this machine and the one thing almost everyone complained about was the platen. Which is an easy thing to fix.
I think it would be worth while to build a contact wheel and a fuller wheel for this unit. I don't think it would be very difficult at all. Mainly just need some flat bar, and figure out a way to mount the wheel or roller to it.
Hey man, I have one of your big elmax bowies. What did you end up naming it? Second question, that is my absolute FAVORITE camp knife, any chance in getting one made or have this one sent off for some tlc?
