re: Lumberjocks

Lumberjocks – Infrequently. I’m here more than anywhere else – other than a Rocking Chair forum, where I’m very active there.

My observation… and this will offend many; and it’s not my interest to do so – is that a site is as good as the woodworking skills that its active members possess.

For Lumberjocks, I have the opinion, and professional woodworkers have shared this with me, as well, there are too many members who ‘speak before they know’ or ask questions before they’ve done any research – whether its tool reviews (often on just-purchased equipment), methods of work (that are down-right scary or dangerous, sometimes); or giving advice on final prep and finishing – “well, I bought some poly from a BigBox store and wiped it on”.

Serious woodworkers are interested in interacting with other serious woodworkers – learning from, and helping others learn, who are serious about learning, and improving their craft. In my opinion, the way to achieve this is to identify several members who are serious about a specialty – bent lamination, finishing, joinery, Layout… there are hundreds to choose from – and have them champion this skill on this site.

Again, it’s not my intent to sound uppity… I’ve grew tired of Lumberjocks long ago; and I’ve always hoped that W3 would be better.