Enoch,google sheet benders they are easy to make ,there will be plans on the net,use diy,homebuilt,and the yanks often use the term "homebrew" for diy.like ozzie says ,in the end it comes down to practice.
The main reason for starting the arc with a hot rod is that with practice you will start in the exact position real quick and make a neat job.Dont forget to use a gloved left hand to hold the rod about 40/50 mm from the arc end when it suits you ,eg vertical down.
A guillotine may be expensive and hard to make,the bosch jigsaw may well substitute,if you find a site for a homemade guillotine let us all know!They are very expensive to buy.
Also,not widely known but there is a small electric tool called a carpet cutter,has a roller on it,it will cut light alloy sheet very well indeed.These are not expensive if you can find one these days.Mine is a Black and Decker.
No I would not be without my needle scaler,its a real bonus,worth every cent! David
