![Trimming composites gets the full PPE job. [Credit: Eric Stewart]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/7-2.jpg?w=534&h=462&crop=1 "A Few of My Favorite Tools")
![Lowell Farrand spent years serving as an FAA DAR and is in the EAA Hall of Fame. He offers sound advise to builders. [Credit: Bill Wilson]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/unnamed-4.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Think Like a Builder")
![Author Bill Wilson takes a break from measuring and cutting the Lexan windshield during his Onex build. [All Images Credit to Bill Wilson]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/image-2.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Think Like A Builder")
Buying an Unfinished Project
There are plenty of things to look out for before committing to an unknown collection of parts and pieces from another fellow builder.
Breaking Bead
This month’s home shop project is a bead breaker for separating stubborn tires from rims.
Where’s the Best Place To Build?
You and your airplane kit deserve a comfortable workshop area for the many days of building that lie ahead. If you are a first-time...
Common In-Flight Failures, Part 2
This column is a continuation of common in-flight failures that I began discussing in the September 2024 issue. With today’s glass cockpits and all...
Unlabeled Switch and Circuit Breakers
For safety’s sake, all switches and circuit breakers should be labeled as to function and direction.
In Case You Missed It
Ask the DAR
This month, a new column introduces Designated Airworthiness Representative Mel Asberry, who describes his background in homebuilding and details some of what hes looking for as a DAR. Questions welcome.
Trig’s New Nav/Coms
Trig’s new TX56 has smart features and good compatibility. A built-in GPS would make it better.
Eliminating Egg-Shaped Holes
Quarter-inch pilot bits in hole saws have a tendency to enlarge the pilot hole...