Starrett The Starrett Book For Student Machinists

The Starrett Book For Student Machinists is a compact, softbound reference guide designed for anyone learning or working in precision machining—gunsmiths, reloaders, tool makers, and machinists at any skill level. This 160-page handbook by George Morris fits in a shop bag or toolkit and combines practical instruction with the tables and reference material you actually need on the job, whether you're starting out or fine-tuning decades of experience.

The book covers the core disciplines of mechanical work: mechanical drawing, fitting, bench work, cutting speed, drilling, lathe operations, grinding, toolmaking, and mechanics. With 200 diagrams and illustrations throughout, it walks you through concepts visually, so you're not wrestling with dense text alone. A complete index makes it easy to find answers fast when you're at the lathe or workbench and need a quick refresher on technique, tolerances, or theory.

For shooters who reload, maintain firearms, or build custom rifles and firearms components, this is a solid foundation in the machining fundamentals that separate quality work from sloppy work. It's the kind of reference that pays for itself the first time you use it to solve a fit problem, calculate a cutting speed, or understand why a tool works the way it does. At 4½" × 7", it's sized to live in your shop without taking up real estate.

Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

What topics does this machining book cover?

The Starrett Book covers mechanical drawing, fitting, bench work, cutting speed, drilling, lathe operations, grinding, toolmaking, and mechanics—the fundamentals you need for quality precision work.

Is this book useful for gunsmiths and reloaders?

Yes. Anyone involved in firearms maintenance, component building, or custom work benefits from a solid understanding of machining principles, tolerances, and tool technique. This book provides that foundation in a practical, accessible format.

How is the information organized and easy to use?

The book includes 200 diagrams and illustrations alongside text, and a complete index so you can quickly locate the specific topic or technique you need without reading cover to cover.

What size is this book?

It measures 4½" × 7" and is softbound, making it compact enough to fit in a toolbox or shop bag for easy reference while you work.