I'm a newbie to machining with no training, trying to learn how to do a few machining operations. I have several projects in mind, mostly gun related, so Friday I decided it was time to get down to business. As I posted earlier, one of these is making some barrels for my rifles, but I think that will wait a little while. I really want brass fore end spacers on my Buffalo Classic and Carbine, so I decided I'd see what I could do. I have a little aluminum scrap that is the right size, so I decided to see if I could actually get something that would work made before spending $50 for brass stock. Here is where I'm at right now - I'm actually pretty pleased with my progress. Mainly need to cut it off and machine it to length and drill and countersink the holes. That probably won't happen until I get a nice warm day again (my shop is unheated). Here are a few pics - comments are welcome (and encouraged). I realize I should have taken some photos while in the process, but didn't think about it. I'll try to remember when I get back into the shop. I'll probably make a second one out of aluminum before moving on to brass just to make sure I'm comfortable with my process.