Machinery's Handbook

[CCWKen]

Is the 27th edition, released in 2004, the most recent edition? Is there a new release comming soon?
I have an older version that's pretty tattered and want to update and get the LARGE PRINT version. Is the CD worth having?

[Todd Tolhurst]

Yes, the 27th is the current edition. Looks like the large print version is available. I think they publish a new edition every 4 years or so, so it may be 2008 before the 28th edition. Regarding the CD, I can't say.

[Michael C]

I saw the cd from the last issue a few years back. It was dreadful, what a pain to use. Book is much better IMO.

Michael

[Evan]

I have the CD but don't recall which edition. It's usable but hard to find things in. It's often faster for me to do a general search on the net. I find that apart from specific data tables and similar that MH suffers from the same problem that most compendiums covering a broad field do. They cannot provide sufficient detail on many subjects to make it useful and may as well not bother including what they do have to say on many subjects.

[JCHannum]

The 27th Edition is the current volume. Large type usually sells for more. The previous edition sometimes turns up at a reduced price when the new edition comes out. There is usually little difference between editions less than a decade or so apart.

John S. might be able to offer a critique of the CD's value. I seem to recall he had an early version and a more recent one and the later versions were easier to navigate.

Machinery's Handbook is what it is. It is a source of a lot of valuable information and is a worthwhile addition to any shop. The older editions are frequently available for under $20.00, and represent a great value at that price.

[old-biker-uk]

My copy is tenth ed. 1941 - best £3 I ever invested !

[ammcoman2]

A few years ago our model club auctioned off some "underused" books from the library. Got a MH - fifth edition (1919) for $5. Sure is interesting to see the section on threads and the one on steel! It was originally owned by a Mr G. Holmes of Keighley, Yorkshire, who probably came to Canada at some point.

Geoff

[pgmrdan]

Good deals!

I saw an MH at a used book store for $30 yesterday. I think it was the 11th edition. I just kept on walking.

Mine is much newer but not too new, if you know what I mean. A former Machinist Student gave it to me. Works for me!

[Carld]

I have several of them from the 1920's to the 1980's. I buy them at used book stores or at online used book web sites. Do a google for used book sites and start shoping for one. I don't do CNC so I like the older books.

[mklotz]

Remember to check used book sales at the local libraries. I've picked up at least six copies for prices ranging from $3 to $5. While there, keep your eye out for copies of Kent's and Marks' Mechanical Engineer's Handbook as well.