Bruce,

I'm currently trying to fire dozens of rather large pieces in my two 20cu ft kilns. I could sure use 40 cu ft about now! I'm firing 5-6 gallon jars and 20 inch bowls and they overhang every shelf I have. I end up cantelevering everything in the kiln just to get it all to fit.

Good luck with the extruder. I just donated my expansion box extruder to the local college. The stainless steel one I have is small but suits whatever I might use if for at this point. I still pull handles and the only thing I did use it for was an item I'm not making right now.

I have has some REALLY good luck with textured bats to throw slabs on and then put them on the wheel to shape the bottom ( I attach thrown feet).