EXAMINING THE GERSTNER TOOL BOX Tips

[@briangarrow448]

It is a beautiful piece of furniture, no matter who made it.

[@tonyburndred9828]

You do a great job of teaching and entertaining people Lyle, just keep doing what you’re doing, it’s much appreciated.

[@stevewilliams587]

BUT .. only if you get something back. We are not that selfish to pile on the pressure. If you truly feel you have had enough you have made that decision and it is time to quit. How can we help you decide what you do to fill the void ? Did you struggle with retirement when the time came to stop teaching ? How did you come to terms with that?

[@roylucas1027]

You can't imagine how much I enjoy a cup of coffee and a Mr. Pete video to start my day. I'm relieved that your going to continue making videos and I look forward to each one. Thank you and take care.

[@mrpete222]

👍👍

[@bocody]

I’ve always wondered why a machinist level is so accurate? How about a video on that subject? What a treat it is to wake up to a new video on a Sunday morning. Thank you!

[@ProfRonconi]

I'm interested too. I'd also like a video on the subject of detents, which I find especially difficult.

[@andyZ3500s]

@@ProfRonconi I think This Old Tony did a video on detents about a year ago.

[@ProfRonconi]

@@andyZ3500s Yes, I've seen it. But he only did captive ball detents. I want to see other types.

[@andyZ3500s]

@@ProfRonconi I was just looking for videos on detents and didn't find anything over 3 or 4 minutes. That would make a great topic for someone to do since there are endless applications possible.

[@davidschaer8974]

They are amazing! I lucked into one on Craigslist (the same model as Mr Pete's). If you prop up one end with a sheet of paper (.004 in. ) and then pull it out, the bubble Will clearly indicate it.

[@tindoortailgator]

Lyle, A Man's Action's Speak More Then Words - Thank You - For All You Do, Stay Safe, Stay Strong - God Bless...

[@mackstertube]

I think you got a bargain for the condition and what you got. When I consider what what else costs $500 these days this is a great find and buy. You really could go your whole life and not find another buy like this at auction. Do not have buyers remorse.

[@pauldevey8628]

Tooo Bad others judge you. I appreciate you showing and educating us. You are keeping our hobby alive

[@mikemarriam]

OMG, I wish people would stop with the tool envy. I'm so happy for you Mr. Pete that you were able to obtain this box and so grateful that you are willing to suffer the slings and arrows you invariably have to dodge in order to share it with us. God bless.

[@ralphfurley81]

I am only half way through the video and am amazed at the box and scriber set. The quality of the box and craftsmanship far exceeds $200.00 easily. The box being full of specialized machinists tools values over $500.00 easily. Great video. Now to continue watching the rest of it

[@mrpete222]

👍👍👍

[@MrCellardoor7]

Happy Father’s Day Mr. Pete. I had a few great shop teachers when I was in school. Along with my father who is very handy, a few guys that were older than me who were willing to pass me their knowledge and experience, and youtubers, not least amongst yourself, have taught me some of my most cherished lessons. Thank you, Jamie Galvin

[@jackthompson2132]

Beautiful tool box. Thanks for sharing it and your knowledge to some of us that don’t know about the tools you talked about. It is appreciated.

[@bettytherussiantortoise2808]

I love the lathe projects because I really want to learn how to machine. Keep them coming!

[@FieryWACO]

Check your local community college for machining classes.

[@johnquinn3899]

Hey Mr Pete I don’t think I’ve missed any of your videos and found them very informative. I know you put a lot of effort in making them & it shows. Your road-trip ones especially the one of the old power plant puts us in the passenger seat. Thank you !!!

[@GaryT1952]

My Gerstner is marked on the drawer backs and constructed exactly as yours are, none of my other manufacturers are marked as such. I was fortunate in acquiring them, for a while a few years ago, tool makers chests would turn up frequently at the local flea market...usually full of tools and instruments. I am north of Boston, lots of industry was shutting down at the time. Boxes were always under $50...I bought whenever I could.Thanks for the content Mr. Pete....always appreciated

[@dennismichas285]

Mr Pete, you always do a good job, weather its turning, milling, showing us your beautiful treasures and ranting.. .keep it up Sir.

[@bstevermer9293]

Agree! I love the rants!!!

[@burtpowell1344]

Put a brisket on my smoker. Made coffee with chicory and enjoyed Mr Pete video with a Gerstner box and Starrat tools. What a perfect day! Thanks, Mr. Pete!

[@mrpete222]

Yes

[@sambrose1]

Make whatever videos you want and don't worry about the number of views. Make what you enjoy. Thank you for all your videos.

[@mauricecasey5556]

You never have to justify your passion for your craft to anyone. It's enough that you are willing to share it with us. Greetings from the UK.

[@kejay74]

Hello Lyle! THANK YOU! For showing the "ancient" drafting tool set. I strongly suspect that this kit was made in either Switzerland or Germany. Ken

[@Bargle5]

Seconded. :-)

[@mikenixon9164]

Up again at 5 a.m. who else has a good video to watch except YOU..

[@spidersinspace1099]

Steve Summers

[@ohmbug10]

I'm always a good bit happier when I watch one of your videos with my morning coffee. Thanks again Mr. Pete.

[@motor1395]

Lyle, I love your videos. The fact you have such a faithful following and hundreds of videos says a lot about you and your clear teaching method. I can tell you sometimes let the haters and whiners bother you. Stop allowing that. Life is too short. Keep being yourself and we will be here to learn at the elbow of a true master and teacher. All the best, Norm in Arizona

[@mrpete222]

Thank you very much for the encouragement

[@kevinzucco8358]

Thanks for this second video about your new tool chest and Starrett tools you got at the auction. I always enjoyed seeing old tools that have been passed along.

[@Maxb49]

Beautiful tool chest. Starrett makes the best tools in the world.

[@larrystrayer8336]

Your tool enthusiasm is fantastic, buy more because of the joy it imparts to You; As it’s hard to take it with you.

[@ssboot5663]

Don't worry so much about what you paid. its our money and well spent on a good cause as far as I'm concerned.Enjoy your tools and life! We enjoy seeing them too! I'm learning something every day!

[@johncloar1692]

Grate buy, I think you done well with this one . You can never have too many tools. I am a tool junkie just like you. I find it a joy in life to have the all the tools you need to work with.

[@Siskiyous6]

I watch them, don't abandon all of us true lovers of your work Lyle.

[@edh.9153]

Thank you again, for all you do. Don't think that you are not appreciated. I really enjoy your videos! I keep watching as time allows, but I have a lot going on. Take care, Ed Hicks

[@Ddabig40mac]

Gerstner or not, that is a top quality build. The joinery you showed in the previous video, the application of the felt, fit of the drawers, and the overall finish. It is a very good piece of workmanship. I can't imagine producing the same without humbly mentioning I did it in some discreet fashion.

[@hasanzakeri8708]

You are not selfish by any measure, Mr. Pete!

[@samdavis5079]

Mr. Pete, I enjoy ALL of your videos, but I must admit my personal preference is the machining videos. I hope you have a happy father's day and enjoy some time with your family.

[@tmurray1972]

I love the older craftsman stuff before they started selling cheap imported crap. You got a good deal on that box and tools.👍 And you don’t owe anyone any apologies...lol. The early bird gets the worm.👌🦉

[@mrpete222]

Yes

[@JamesP_TheShedShop]

Mr. Pete, if some are saying your selfish etc ignore them. Its America. Maybe I'm weird but I have always found fine tools as a thing of beauty and art. With shop classes being shut down you are doing a service the youth and the country, (and older folk like me). Its ashame how apprenticeship programs have disappeared. Thank you for what you do.

[@lathammarx1458]

Hogwash, Tubalcain you are doing an amazing job, it's just that only so many people have a shop to follow your build videos. I don't even have a mill and my lathe is in pieces, but I still watch ever video and have a list of the projects to go back and watch once I have my lathe restored. I will admit people love the plunder videos, probably some that have little intrest in machining, so you get more views on those. Either way you put out amazing content that entertains and educates, God bless you for that Sir.

[@mrpete222]

Thank you very much

[@Daledavispratt]

Auctions are survival of the fittest..anyone who thinks otherwise doesn't have their head on straight. Enjoyed seeing this in more detail. Thanks, Mr. Pete! :-)

[@shanematthews9220]

Mr Pete, always good to see your videos. If you are happy, I could care less what others think. Well made tools are like pizza. All are good, just some are better than others. My sister in law gave me a Gerstner box. It is a treasure as are Starrett tools.

[@ericday604]

Thanks again Mr. Pete!! Love seeing the great craftsmanship of the tools and box.. I think that more people watch these videos than the lathe project videos because collecting is within more peoples reach. We can all collect smaller tools, we dont all have access to a metal lathe. I do enjoy watching you fabricate great thing from scratch though. God bless my friend!!

[@FabriDragon]

There’s nothing selfish about making educational videos that anyone can watch for free.

[@MaturePatriot]

It looks to be a well made, and beautifully finished box. Would love to have one since my damaged Gerstner box was disposed of in a move.

[@dannyl2598]

Thanks Mr Pete. I always enjoy seeing tools and hearing you talk about them.

[@dalefaurot2647]

Huge craftsman following we will collect anything craftsman related hand tools and machines

[@seanludrick7971]

Hi Mr Pete, from my brief investigation of Gerstner chests (which aren't really known here in Australia ), all the photos show metal corner angle brace protectors,which are not evident on your acquisition. Love your work, you're a great teacher. Cheers.

[@Bronco541]

My own grandfather made a lot of homemade things just like this tool chest and you could easily fool someone into thinking they were factory made. He was just really good at what he did purely as a hobby.

[@smithtown6589]

Mr. Pete- I have four wooden tool chests each with a different set of tools within. I have the tap drawer, the die drawer, the scale drawer, the tweezer drawer, caliper draw etc. The thing about removable draws is that I can take the drawer out and take it to where I’m working in the shop and I don’t need to keep running back to the chest. Removable drawers have their merits.

[@Toyotas_n__Tools]

Hey mr pete i like that hat, the way they got the letters to pop like that is they put a type of cut foam down that the sewing machine will stitch in place and then the embroidery sequence will start. You never know starrett could of made some craftsman tools but didn't put the same finishing into them.

[@gregmaggielipscomb9246]

T/Y for taking time to share this beautiful piece of furniture.

[@Garth2011]

Just the goodies inside the tool box was a good deal for the purchased price. The box is wonderful so forget what it cost you, it seems well worth it considering the tools/gauges etc as long as you don't already have two or three of each ! Nice deal and nice goodies.

[@timholloway3007]

Hi, Lyle You are in no way selfish for collecting, and enjoying the collecting tools. Many people collect much less useful things, and accomplish very little in life. Old shop teachers, like us, have spent our time in hell, and now it's our turn to enjoy life, and what ever suits us. I'm sure our wives/children/ Grand children will profit handsomely some day from our collection of tools. Some by keeping them, and some by selling them. He who dies with the most tools wins !!! Tim

[@TonyBarr99]

Hello Mr. Pete. This is my first comment, but I've watched many, many of your videos and I really enjoy both you and the excellent content. OK, I did a Google search for W-41C (markings on the inside of your box) and found that W-41C is a Gerstner model number (walnut, model 41C). Not proof of a Gerstner, but I thought you would find this interesting, if you didn't know this already. Happy Father's Day!

[@mrpete222]

Thank you very much

[@Donorcyclist]

I enjoy all of your videos, Mr. Pete! Don't give up on projects!

[@Smallathe]

I personally love your project videos, how to videos and tool dissections. Keep up with the wonderful machinning diy... thanks!!!

[@ricks9169]

I enjoy all your videos, Mr. Pete. Please keep up the good work.

[@bsalightning69]

Just for the record, I got the series that you did on the Logan lathe, and watch it regularly. Love it, and will keep it handy. The only reason for not buying anything else is the fact that I haven't bought a mill at this time. Am in the process of learning 3d printing, and have been watching your videos on that. Thanks for your time involved, it's nice to have videos completely removed from the craziness of today's garbage....

[@martinstreets7377]

Hi Mr Pete, I have a toolmakers cabinet identical layout to yours although it's not as pretty and carries the scars of 47 years use. I bought it through a scheme my employer ran when I was a second year apprentice you paid instalments each week to the tool guy. It was manufactured over here in the UK by a company called Emir. Keep making the video clips I like them. Regards Martin.

[@gilvb51]

I watch, enjoy, and like all your vids! I especially enjoy the ones where you're fixing or making something.

[@bigmikex2333]

Thank you for the explanation of the mic attachments! It makes perfect sense now.

[@slawnski]

You’re doing a great job- no matter the maker it is a very nice tool box. Please keep the videos coming!

[@vijayantgovender2045]

Thank you MR Pete I always enjoy watching your videos I am from South Africa

[@roadshowautosports]

I got some boxes like that at harbor freight a few years back. They were sold for $80ish but haven’t been there recently to update this info and I’m not sure they are still available there. I’ll check if they have it and will take it apart to check for details you’ve pointed here as I’ve never looked into the details like the metal bottom on the drawers but almost positive they are wood. Possibly mine are just Chinese knockoffs but still served me well. Thank you for these videos!

[@mrpete222]

👍👍

[@mackstertube]

The guy who said you can get a chest like this for around $100 obviously thinkd all workmanship, wood and chests are the same. No way. You could barely buy the materials for that.

[@ProfRonconi]

Indeed. Some people just don't get the hard work behind a well-done object. On the other hand, some people are willing to pay $5000 for a pair of shoes, so I guess it ends up more or less even.

[@edwardsparks7454]

I have my Grandfathers Gerstner Tool Chest. Loaded with his machinist tools. I really cherish having it.

[@rs2143]

I went to cabinet school in 70 and made 2 chests I copied one .There beautiful .If no plate its not gernishner . It's still nice chest . FILLED WITH TOOLS WORTH THE PRICE AT AUCTION 👍

[@rsp6549]

What a great video. There is something about old tools--old precision tools in particular--that I find fascinating. More fascinating in fact that a lengthy milling operation using same said tools. Perhaps, therein lies your view-count conundrum. I think you made a lucky buy at $525.

[@jimmunger8658]

Happy Father’s Day. I am a big fan of the Kennedy and the S-K boxes I live less than 30 minutes from the Kennedy factory and 40 minutes away from where one of S-K factory ‘s were - although no boxes were made at that plant.

[@roderickwhitehead]

Appreciate the "deeper dive". Maybe it is just a matter of the whole "unboxing" theme ofa lot of YT channels... but it works for views.

[@randy2688]

I really enjoy all your edutainment videos . Thanks

[@krosskaien8618]

Regarding your intro, I'm not a youtube expert by any means but I think people like your auction finds and similar videos more because there're fairy unique. Lots of machining channels do lathe or mill projects but as far as the ones I'm watching there's little content like this. Just to be clear I'm not saying you should give up on your regular projects just a bit of feedback. As far as the box goes I really think it's beautfiul and well made whether it's a Gerstner original or not. I really believe you can tell when someone is passionate and skilled in their craft and it never fails to show in the final product.

[@stuartlockwood9645]

Hi Mr Pete, happy fathers day, hope you're having a good time, , that's a nice box ,whoever made it did a good job, I too have kept so called Best Tools on one side, but as I'm aproaching your age I have decided to use them, and get pleasure from them , whatever happens to them after I'm gone is someone else's problem , so I say use em while you can, just my 2 cent's worth. I'd like to say thanks for any video you post, there all great, Best wishes to you and your's, Stuart.uk.

[@BRay.549]

Thank you Mr Pete, I enjoy your videos. I hope to be as good as you someday.

[@jeffalessi]

Mr. Pete, Gerstner did have metal bottoms prior to 1990 and they have a Forum that might answer your questions: See Attached Link: www.gerstnerforum.com/

[@HadToChangeMyName_YoutubeSucks]

Gave him the same link on the last video on this chest. Their faq indicates that sometimes there are no Gerstner buckles or labels, so who knows. Not really sure it matters, it's still a very nice box even if it's not a Gerstner and with the tools I think it's well worth $500.

[@PaulSteMarie]

Gerstners still have metal bottoms on the drawers. It gives much more capacity. Wood bottoms are thicker and can't be positioned flush at the bottom: you need some space to allow for a joint.

[@goptools]

Hi Mr. Pete, You don't need to apologize to anyone for who you are and where you are in life. I have a feeling that you worked hard to get to where you are. That fictional poor man you mentioned at the auction can get there too, if he works at it. It was an auction after all. Everything goes to the highest bidder. I think you got a reasonable deal. Take a look at what used machinist tools go for on eBay. The prices are outrageous. Maybe the chest was custom made for the prior owner, or maybe he made it himself. Thanks for the video! -mike

[@waynespyker5731]

Back starting my apprenticeship 1962 I bought a used Gerstner oak machinists chest from an antique dealer. It was in good shape except for a depressed circle on the very dirty top cooked in from a shop lamp bulb's heat. Missing the key, all the felt was pristine with all the drawers free and functional. I had the antique dealer's refinisher restore the top and York Machinery and Supply where I bought my Brown and Sharpe tools got me a new key from the lock number. Eventually I could afford a Machinery Handbook for the vertical drawer. Oops the Handbook was the latest edition, the drawer was several editions earlier. Even with thinner paper pages it's thickness missed fitting! To this date the latest edition Handbook resides under the lid. May your wife enjoy her treasure.

[@richardwhite5065]

I got to say I love the videos with you on the mill and the lathe!

[@jskelton11]

Love all your vids. I especially like the ones where you make a practical shop tool (toolmaker’s clamps, float-lock vise, tap follower, etc) which I can follow along and make for myself and end up using often.

[@americansewingmachineresto1545]

I saw a few YouRube videos on refurb of Gerstner tool boxes. The markings on the back of the draws was a signature process. W=Walnut. I’ll bet it is a genuine based on the construction techniques. Like you commented they could have a budget product line without the branding. Gerstner does have an online presence and the video tour of their factory did say something about the ability to contact them with inquiries. I shutter to think the total cost of the included tools if bought from Starrett. Nice video, thanks.

[@jimc4731]

Call Gerstner on the phone, they will tell you anything you want to know about their products. JIM

[@TheTacktishion]

That is if your pay the $50

[@d6joe]

I think the would talk to the legendary mr. Pete for free. Well they should.

[@viol999]

I inherited a Gerstner walnut box from my step dad some years ago and it does have metal drawer bottoms. stamped v-279 and it has a machinist handbook in the center drawer dated to 1964, so I'm guessing that, that's around the age of the box.

[@jimbrown678]

You have no reason to apologize. And should you brag a little I'd be fine. Some folks are just envious of what other people are able to attain. Me on the other hand, I make a wish list when I watch your videos. Thank you for your contribution to the machinist world. If I were a shop teacher, I'd just turn on Mr Pete's KZbin channel and drink coffee.

[@raymondclark1458]

Fantastic stuff Mr Pete. Love this stuff. All the best!

[@mrpete222]

Thanks

[@petertaylor9408]

I have a Starrett box I bought when I stated my apprenticeship .I is a Gerstner it has the thmirror,leather handle lid latches it is mahogany. I get from tool suppler new it cost $50 in 1965 my tool allowance was only $200. Still havi andlts ln great shape.

[@greasydot]

That is a pretty box and very well made. I looked at a Horrible Fright box just yesterday and it is no where near the quality that box is. I have some old craftsman machinist tools from my wife's uncle and my depth mic and dividers look identical to my Starrett mic and dividers and the combination, protractor and center finder looks like my brothers old Lufkin tools. Maybe they went with a cheapest bidder on a tool line. Do you have in your collection of armstrong tools the boring bar holder that has the through holes 3 different sizes that pass all the way through them. I would really like to see how they operate and align and tighten them to the compound for internal threading. Stay safe and healthy Mr. Pete.

[@tropifiori]

Quite a nice haul. Keep having fun with tools. I really do like the project videos as I am trying to figure out how to do even basic things with all the tooling and equipment I got at a sale.

[@davidschaer8974]

The drawer joinery is the same as gerstner. The metal bottoms as well. The numbering scheme is also the same. The use of secondary woods for the drawer sides is consistent with gerstner. The red felt and missing mirror make me think it's been replaced. The lack of corner protection and condition of the finish may indicate it was refinished. Do you see any screw holes where the corner pieces would have been attached?

[@phantom629]

Hey mr. pete, I'm wondering if maybe the box might be custom or maybe home made by the previous owner, it would explain the detail and materials. A dimensional inspection might reveal some interesting clues since most professionally made stuff is built within the raw material readily available

[@roysnider3456]

I committed on the first video about what a great find this was I’m back to say I don’t think Gerstner ever used red felt, I’m wondering if it’s home made? Anyway I was a cnc machine operator for quit awhile so I know the value of all those tools and the walnut chest again very nice find specially at that price. You could only buy one or two of the mic’s for what you paid for the whole thing👍

[@TheGuitar1962]

You the best Mr Pete.

[@briansmart2045]

Thanks for all your videos , you are a Blessed fellow finding a tool box as nice and filled with great stuff . Kind regards

[@stevevogelman3360]

I love your videos Mr Pete. Sure love all your machinest tools. I’m quite jealous.

[@tobiastalley4129]

the Starrett 98-6 6 inch machinists level go's for about $130

[@michael931]

Mr Pete's price estimates are always low...

[@patrickdavies6514]

Starrett's list price is $140.

[@672egalaxie6]

Recent e-bay sales run from $70-120

[@gig1958]

Thumbs Up to all the content and Happy Father's Day!! Matthew Onks

[@johnmartin2594]

my box from 1965 is a model 041C metal drawer bottoms, oak wood with 4 top clips and leather top handle. worked as a tool and die maker from 1965 till 2005

[@raymondhorvatin1050]

I was just pricing starret levels at little machine shop you can multiply that $60 x 3 nice box and I don't think you got burned at all take care and stay safe

[@MrUbiquitousTech]

Great score no matter what, you got your money's worth! Happy Father's Day Mr. Pete!

[@19jaredbarsuglia81]

Your doing a great job. Your fighting mainstream ideologies, results aren’t always in the “pudding”.

[@garthbutton699]

I don't think we have seen or heard the last of this tool chest,my money on a continuing saga.🤗🤗🤗🤗🤗

[@leeklemetti1887]

That certainly looks like a Gerstner toolbox. I recently acquired a Gerstner and it turned out to be a 41C and D151 on the bottom and 151D, handwritten, on the back of each drawer. My drawers bottoms are sheet metal, thin, and pin brads to hold it in. Looking at the second set of numbers on the side rail show #41C and #467. The #467 might be a serial # Mine doesn't have those numbers there. My guess that yours is an incompletely finished 41C toolbox. Maybe someone "removed" the toolbox when no one was looking!

[@RaptorMachineToolCo]

Happy Father’s Day Lyle.... and all!

[@joemccarthywascorrect6240]

There’s the drafting set! Good stuff!!!

[@SD-vr6nv]

Hi from New Zealand.I enjoy your work and have been watching for a while,what originally attracted me was the Tubalcain name. In the 1980s I got a book 'Model Engineers Handbook" by Tubal Cain from England,obviously no relation.Anyway thank you and keep making swarf.

[@mrpete222]

Yes, Tom Walsh was from England and has passed away. He offered many books and articles

[@henrysara7716]

Incredible beautiful furniture