Abstract: In a first stage or operation, at least one shear initiation breakthrough opening is formed through the ultra-high strength material sheet at an interior location. A leading terminal end of each of at least two inclined shearing edges of an interior opening shearing tool is positioned in the at least one shear initiation breakthrough opening. The interior opening shearing tool is different from the breakthrough opening forming tool. In a second stage or operation, shearing of the material is initiated from the at least one shear initiation breakthrough opening by advancing the at least two inclined shearing edges of the interior opening shearing tool against the ultra-high strength material sheet and relative to a corresponding shearing tool.

Abstract: A band saw attachment for working in conjunction with a band saw for cutting arcuate panels from a piece of stock. The attachment includes a frame structure and a carriage movably mounted on the frame structure and movable back and forth between selected cutting positions. A rotating support is pivotally mounted to the carriage and pivotally movable back and forth relative to the blade of the band saw. In operation, the rotating support receives and holds a piece of stock and by rotating the support the blade of the band saw functions to cut arcuate shaped panels from the piece of stock.