Mike, Bruce Tharpe's kits ane not laser cut. Here is a piece from Bruce's web site. "The major parts found in a BTE kit are machine-cut. They are actually sanded to their final shape using templates for accuracy that rivals laser-cutting, but without the charred edges. This takes a lot of time and effort on our part, but it results in smooth, square edges that make solid contact when assembled. Skilled modelers know that firm wood-to-wood joints are a must for maximum strength."

Birman