Bowman covers all aspects of building a routed table, and he does it in English, plain, and concise. Getting started, tools and supply list, where to get materials, explanation of routing methods, making special sections, combining routed with conventional pieces, making the joints, and much more.

Throughout the book he emphasizes points with bold letters "CAREFUL", or "IMPORTANT", and then gives detailed instructions on why these are emphasized. He even suggests lane colors for 4,6 and 8 lane setups, which lends to a universal standard.

I found the section on making banked sections very interesting. He gives some examples, and then explains the math. Same for making squeeze sections. Even more in depth detail is given when you start the routing process.

Where Bowman goes the extra step is his detailed about using guides and templates to make the curves. If all you want is basic radii, a guide is fine, but for those special cuts, he describes making a template, first. He also includes a picture of the metal guide he has built, and how to construct one.

With the manual, you get a group of pictures (yes, actual pictures) that offer good, clear references for what he describes. Many have hand written instructions on them, some with numbers and more detail on the back. Also included is a section of track (lower/right), which shows the rabbit, wire, retainers, and shunts. This makes for a very effective example.

There are a few things that we think would improve the manual. First, have it spiral bound, instead of stapled. It would open up flat, and stay open, while you were working. Second, include the pictures within the text. Lastly, a little better proof read. There are some places where the thought was started, and then not completed. You could infer where he was headed, but it may not be clear to all people. These changes may require a slight increase in the $50 price tag, but if it gets you the routed track you always wanted, then that would not be a burden. It's also superb as is.

My feelings are that if you have had any inclination to try routing a track, Bowman has done the leg work for you, and this manual is a must have. It does so much of the process for you, that all you are left to do is the actual routing and cutting. It is clear, detailed, and misses nothing. In fact, he even includes several pages of FAQ's at the end. This is truly the Complete guide to routing your own track, and we recommend it highly.

The manual is available by contacting Bowman at bradshotrk@aol.com. Support is also offered through this email address. Write Brad with any track building questions.