Thanks for the compliment, Dean. I like using it too.
Most of the time I spent had been on the planning. I took my time on the planning, including reading the Kriege book from cover to cover. The building part was over four months, between work and family, and with limited tools, but the with the help of a second pair of hands from Hickny when needed. I've got the scope I wanted, and well worth the slow year's planning and careful crafting over four months (one of which nothing happened).
I'd suggest it is worth considering the DIY option some more. All I had tool wise was a circular saw, power and cordless drill, cheap router and a mate with a band saw and drill press.
Though its crafting was relatively inexpensive, I did not skimp on the principles held in the 'good book'. I had to work out how to craft the necessary components, and how to make them reliable and predictable. I only wish to have a better decked out workshop to have been able to machine components I would have preferred. But, necessity is the mother of invention.
There in lies the challenge. Limited funds, but unlimited enthusiasm,
.