Shadowbox for Fireman's Axe

[bmuir1616]

I've been asked to build a shadowbox to hold a ceremonial axe for a retiring firefighter. Size is 38" H x 24"w x 3.5"D I will mitered corners and add blind splines for strength.

I plan on building it from 3/4" oak 1x4s with a 1/2-inch back because the axe will most likely be screwed to the shadowbox from the back.

Questions:

How would you dress up the 3/4-inch edge that is visible? Simple roundover? Bevel? Other ideas?

Also, any ideas on how to best hold this big a box with mitered corners together while the glue dries?

Thanks.
Bill

[greenacres2]

In my mind, the ceremonial axe should be the focal point--in homage to the life of service, so i'd vote in favor of just easing the edges. Nothing fancy needed.

As for clamping--i'd probably use a strap clamp.

earl

[capncarl]

Finger joint corners, attach the ax in place using screws through the back plate.

[cabinetman]

I would leave them unadorned, or a simple bead if anything. You could make wood corner clamps like this (not my photo).

.

[RAV2]

Check these ideas out:

http://shadowboxusa.com/242/fire-ser...w-box-gallery/

[sweensdv]

Bullnose router bit for the face and +1 on the strap clamp.

[LinuxRandal]

Part of me is saying have some fun with it. Make a locking door frame that will hold the (plastic, unbreakable glass) with the In Case of Emergency, Break glass. Hold the axe in with a leather strap and a leather cup.

Found a basic image, doing a search: http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.ph.../DeusAxMachina

[Pappy]

Part of me is saying have some fun with it. Make a locking door frame that will hold the (plastic, unbreakable glass) with the In Case of Emergency, Break glass. Hold the axe in with a leather strap and a leather cup.

Found a basic image, doing a search: http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.ph.../DeusAxMachina

I like that idea! As to trim profile, I would agree with others to stay simple and have the axe as the focal point.

The best band clamp I have found for large frames is the Merle from MLCS.

http://www.mlcswoodworking.com/shops...rle_clamp.html

[gsmittle]

+1 on the Merle! Great clamp!

g.