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Adam Savage’s Tested
Deleted Scene: Eye-Mech Handle Upgrade!
⏱ 15 min video · 2 min read12 May 2026Worth watching
TL;DR
Adam Savage machines a polished aluminum handle for an eye-mechanism prop built by Bill, replacing a functional 3D-printed version. The short deleted scene documents the lathe work to hit precise diameter targets, resulting in a clean, professional-grade component.
Key points
1
Bill designed an XY-axis eye mechanism operated from a single control point, with a 3D-printed handle as the prototype
2
Adam chose to re-machine the handle in aluminum on a lathe for a higher-quality, polished finish
3
Starting diameter was approximately 0.9 inches; Adam progressively turned it down, removing material in controlled passes
4
Target final diameter was a clean 0.800 inches, achieved by taking successive cuts of around 20 thousandths
5
The bore clearance was measured at 0.26 inches and cut to 0.24 inches to bring it into the correct fit zone
Actionable insights
→
When upgrading 3D-printed functional prototypes to metal, use the printed part as a dimensional reference and take incremental cuts to sneak up on target diameters
→
Removing material in small passes (e.g. 20 thousandths at a time) gives you control and avoids overshooting a tight tolerance
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Measuring bore clearance before cutting and targeting a slightly undersized fit (0.24 vs 0.26) is a practical way to ensure a snug, controlled fitment
Notable quotes
“It's 3D printed and it's perfect, but I'm going to make a nice polished one out of aluminum because that's the way I like to roll.”
“Dead on nuts amazing.”
Worth watching?
✅
Worth watching the full video?
Watch if you enjoy watching precise lathe work and shop craftsmanship — it is a short, satisfying clip, but the key measurements and process are all captured here.
Saved you some time? The creator still deserves a like.
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