Thanks Pa, LOL. I know how this is going to be.I hope I have better sense to butcher some of my stuff.I have researched this somewhat.I ordered the Monty Kennedy book on checkering.I think it is supposed to be about the best one. It also is supposed to have patterns in it.Like I said I mainly am thinking about making my own 1911 grips to start with.Looks to be a fairly good place to start.(small projects)If I can make some that look decent enough then I might try to checker some .The lay out would notor should I say should not be as difficult as the turns and differences from side to side on a rifle stock.Talking about the sharpness of the tools ,Should I go ahead and spring for a new set of tools or try to find some used,arethe cutters replaceable on the hand tools?I think I can get the tools I need for arounda hundred bucks.As far as the eyesight...........Might have to put jewlers lupes on both eyes.I just thought this would be something I might could fool around doing with my son.Which at his age he probally wouldn't last long.Any input will be greatly appreciated.