Building a pinewood derby car is a cherished tradition for Cub Scouts. It’s a fantastic opportunity to learn about woodworking, design, and friendly competition. This guide outlines the tools commonly used in crafting a pinewood derby car, emphasizing safety precautions for young builders.
Essential Pinewood Derby Car Tools and Safety
A successful pinewood derby car requires careful shaping and detailing. Here’s a look at the tools involved:
Scroll Saw for Initial Cuts
A scroll saw is ideal for making the initial cuts to shape the car body. Its smaller blade allows for intricate curves and designs. With adult supervision, a Cub Scout can safely operate a scroll saw to rough out the car’s form. Always ensure the work piece is securely clamped and proper safety glasses are worn.
Rasps and Files for Shaping
Rasps and files are essential for refining the car’s shape after the initial cuts. These tools help smooth out rough edges and create contours. Choose rasps and files with comfortable handles, preferably plastic, for a secure grip. Gloves are recommended even with handled tools to protect hands from abrasion.
Dremel Tool for Detail Work (with Supervision)
A Dremel tool, with its various attachments, offers versatility for detail work like sanding, grinding, and polishing. However, due to its high speed and small size, it requires close adult supervision and can be challenging for younger users. Start with simple tasks and gradually introduce more complex techniques as the Cub Scout gains experience.
Drill Press for Weight Pockets and Axle Holes
A drill press, used at a slow speed, provides accuracy and control for drilling axle holes and creating weight pockets. Using a depth stop prevents accidental drilling through the car body. Clamping the car securely to a piece of plywood ensures stability during drilling. Adult supervision is crucial when operating a drill press. Always practice on scrap wood first.
Router for Advanced Weight Pockets (with Supervision)
A router, fitted with a specific bit and used in conjunction with a drill press, can create precise weight pockets. This technique requires advanced skills and should only be performed with direct adult supervision. Setting a depth limit on the router bit is critical to avoid damaging the car.
Radial Arm Saw: Not Recommended for Cub Scouts
While a radial arm saw can be used for cutting wood, it’s not recommended for Cub Scouts. This powerful tool requires significant experience and expertise to operate safely due to its complex movements and potential kickback. Adult woodworkers should handle any tasks requiring a radial arm saw.
Practice Makes Perfect
Before working on the actual pinewood derby car, practice each operation on scrap wood. This allows the Cub Scout to develop skills and confidence while minimizing mistakes on the final product.
Safety First: Adult Supervision is Key
Adult supervision is paramount when using any power tools. Always prioritize safety and ensure the Cub Scout understands the proper use of each tool before beginning. Patience, practice, and guidance will help create a fun and rewarding pinewood derby experience.
