Hmm!
An interesting question from Hans.
On the subject of hand made jets, I would point out that
(according to CNN's Sci & Tech Week) there is now avaiable
a kit built jet for the kit plane builders out there.
The main problem I think would be that the maintainance for
such a plane would be rediculous. Without pre-made replacement
parts for every 100 hrs of flight, you would be in for a LOT of
down time.
As to the ability to hand make stuff, it depends on your definition
of hand made. Your TL 3 tools would be hand made. With those tools
one makes TL 4 tools. With those, one proceeds to make TL 5 tools,
6...7...? With your philosophical preference for hand made stuff,
sounds like a crew of craftsmen who would be very protective of
their tools (They'd have to be to build the planes, TV sets (starships)
you seem to want them too.)
But, would your definition of hand made allow them to use a tool
(machine?) that would grow silicon chips? Would it allow them to use
a tool (machine?) that would allow them to etch a silicon chip?
All one is doing is using a very sophisticated tool. It is not a
"Factory", but is it a tool, or a machine?
I would say tho, that up until TL 6 or so, almost every prototype of
anything is hand made. Guns, planes, trains, automobiles and
battleships.
- --
Scott 2G Kellogg
"I'm marrying you for your body." -- 2G Scott's Fiancee