I showed how I cut the tenon on the cross brace earlier. Now I will chop out the mortice in the handle.
The handle and the cross brace need to be able to pivot slightly to allow the blade to be tightened.
I marked a slight radius in the handle to accept the cross brace.
Then I use the chisel to shape the radius to the mark.
Once I have a smooth curve I mark out the length and width of the mortice.
This is mostly just to be sure the brace is more or less centered. Remember from last time, I cut the tenon to be exactly as wide as the mortice chisel. The mortice will also be just as wide as the mortice chisel, so a snug fit is automatic. The lenght of the mortice will be a little long to allow for some pivot.
Another view of the fit of the joint.
And a closeup of the pivot action.
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Thanks for looking and let me know what you think,
Until next time,
@skycranehandwork