Best products from r/turning
We found 132 comments on r/turning discussing the most recommended products. We ran sentiment analysis on each of these comments to determine how redditors feel about different products. We found 386 products and ranked them based on the amount of positive reactions they received. Here are the top 20.
1. Uvex Bionic Face Shield with Clear Polycarbonate Visor and Anti-Fog/Hard Coat (S8510)
- Full shield design provides built-in chin protection and extended top-of-head coverage; protects against falling or flying objects, impacts, chemical splashes and airborne debris; black matte color
- Excellent optics provide increased visibility; clear polycarbonate visor with anti-fog/hard coat; comfortable rear cell foam and lightweight, balanced, ergonomic design for extended use
- Easy-to-set, ratcheting headgear assures comfortable, secure fit; highly adjustable headgear tilts visor nearer or farther from face for preference and application; 2,784 total possible positions
- Easily replaceable visor available in the following options: Clear Uncoated, Clear Anti-Fog/Anti-Scratch, Shade 3.0 and Shade 5.0.; breathable, removable, washable headband
- Must be worn with safety eyewear or goggles; fits comfortably with most goggles and respirators; 100% dielectric (no metal parts); meets ANSI Z87 and CSA Z94.3 standards
Features:
2. PSI Woodworking LCHSS8 Wood Lathe 8pc HSS Chisel Set
- Ideal chisel kit for turning pens pepper mills spindles bowls and lots more woodturning projects of all sizes
- Each chisel measures 16-1/4" in length with a 6-1/4" M2 High Speed Steel blade and a 10" hardwood turned handles
- Set includes (8) chisels 3/16" Parting Tool 5/8" Spear Scraper 1" Skew Chisel 5/8" Skew Chisel 5/8" Round Nose Scraper 1/2" Bowl Gouge 3/4" Spindle Gouge 7/8" Roughing Gouge
- Includes wooden case for storage and carrying
- Great for woodworkers woodturners and penturners of all skill levels
Features:
3. PSI Woodworking Products TM32 1/2-Inch Drill Chuck with #2 Morse Taper Arbor (1/2" 2MT)
- Includes the 1/2" Drill Chuck, #2 Morse Taper Arbor, and Jaw Tightening Key
- This 3-Jaw Chuck will mount into the headstock or tailstock of any lathe that accepts #2MT accessories
- The #2MT Arbor accepts 1/4" x 20tpi draw bolt; Draw bolt not included
- Removes easily with knock out bar
- Great for holding drill bits, small turnings, dowels, pen mandrel shafts, and much more
Features:
4. The Art of Turned Bowls: Designing Spectacular Bowls with a World- Class Turner
- ISBN13: 9781561589548
- Condition: New
- Notes: BRAND NEW FROM PUBLISHER! 100% Satisfaction Guarantee. Tracking provided on most orders. Buy with Confidence! Millions of books sold!
Features:
5. Hurricane Turning Tools, Woodturning Three Piece Bowl Gouge Set, 1/4 Inches Flute, 3/8 Inches Flute, and 1/2 Inches Flute, High Speed Steel
- Includes: 1/2" (5/8" Bar Stock), 1/4" (3/8" Bar Stock), 3/8" (1/2" Bar Stock) Bowl Gouges
- HurricaneTools_HBG14, HurricaneTools_HBG38, HurricaneTools_HBG12
- Used to turn the outside and inside of bowls and vessels
- Made from High Speed Steel with solid beech handle
- Available separately or in sets
Features:
6. Ellsworth on Woodturning: How a Master Creates Bowls, Pots, and Vessels (Fox Chapel Publishing) Over 400 Photos, Step-by-Step Directions, Techniques, Expert Tips, and Troubleshooting for Your Lathe
ISBN13: 9781565233775Condition: NewNotes: BRAND NEW FROM PUBLISHER! 100% Satisfaction Guarantee. Tracking provided on most orders. Buy with Confidence! Millions of books sold!
7. Hurricane Turning Tools, Woodturning Bowl Gouge, High Speed Steel, 3/8 Inches Flute (1/2 Inches Bar Stock)
- Bar Diameter: 1/2" | Flute Width: 3/8"
- Flute Length: 6" | Handle Length: 15" | Overall Length: 24"
- Made from High Speed Steel with solid beech handle
- Used to turn the outside and inside of bowls and vessels
- Available separately or in sets
Features:
8. Neiko 10529A 3/8" Close Quarter Power Drill, 55-Degree Angle | Variable Speed (0-1400 RPM) | 120V
- [CLOSE QUARTER]: This close quarter power drill has a 55-degree angle head that allows the drill to reach into places other drills can’t go and has a 3/8-inch keyed bit holder chuck for easy bit replacement to fit with a variety of applications with an included chuck key.
- [ERGONOMICS]: Ergonomically designed paddle trigger and pistol grip is designed for precise drilling and RPM control and utilizes a grip that is slightly textured to prevent slips and increase accuracy and efficiency.
- [VERSATILE]: The variable speed ranges from 0 to 1400 RPM for precision drilling in tight spaces with a forward/reverse switch that allows for easy directional changes to make fast work for home improvement jobs and more.
- [APPLICATION]: Drill is suitable for use on wood, composition materials, plastics, masonry, metal, and screws to be the perfect companion to the drill bits in your tool collection.
- [SPECIFICATIONS]: Power Supply: 120V ~ 60Hz, Motor Power: 3.8 Amps, ETL approved.
Features:
9. UVEX by Honeywell Bionic Face Shield with Clear Polycarbonate Visor (S8500)
- Full Shield Design Provides Built-In Chin Protection And Extended Top-Of-Head Coverage; Protects Against Falling Or Flying Objects, Impacts, Chemical Splashes And Airborne Debris; Black Matte Color
- Clear Polycarbonate Visor With Excellent Optics Provide Increased Visibility; Comfortable Rear Cell Foam And Lightweight, Balanced, Ergonomic Design For Extended Use
- Easy-To-Set, Ratcheting Headgear Assures Comfortable, Secure Fit; Highly Adjustable Headgear Tilts Visor Nearer Or Farther From Face For Preference And Application; 2, 784 Total Possible Positions
- Easily Replaceable Visor Available In The Following Options: Clear Uncoated, Clear Anti-Fog/Anti-Scratch, Shade 3.0 And Shade 5.0; Breathable, Removable, Washable Headband
Features:
10. Hurricane Turning Tools, Woodturning Bowl Gouge, High Speed Steel, 1/2 Inches Flute (5/8 Inches Bar Stock)
1/2" Bowl Gouge, (5/8" Bar Stock)16" Ash HandleMade from High Speed Steel (HSS), Last up to 8X longer than Carbon Steel
11. Hurricane Turning Tools, Woodturning Roughing Gouge, High Speed Steel, 1 Inches Flute
1" Roughing Gouge12" Ash HandleMade from High Speed Steel (HSS), Last up to 8X longer than Carbon Steel
12. Nova 48202 G3 Wood Turning Chuck Insert Type
- High powered Tuff Lock gearing delivers outstanding grip for little effort
- Fast comfortable T Bar handle
- Open back for easy cleaning
- Fits full range of NOVA Chuck Accessories
- Special Wood turning profile on Jaws to cut into and grip wood fibers firmly
Features:
13. PSI Woodworking LA341018 Lathe Headstock Spindle Adapter 3/4" x 10tpi to 1" x 8tpi
- Convert a 3/4" x 10tpi lathe headstock spindle to 1" x 8tpi
- Allows a 3/4" x 10tpi threaded spindle to accept 1" x 8tpi threaded chucks, faceplates, and other woodturning tools and accessories
- Made of steel; Weighs .85 pounds; Extends spindle length approximately 1-1/2"
- Flats allow for solid wrench tool grip for tightening and loosening from spindle
- Wrench not included
Features:
14. NOVA 48232 G3 Reversible Wood Turning Chuck (Dedicated to fit 1" x 8tpi lathe spindles only)
Anti-Release Spindle Lock, ensures chuck will stay securely mounted on the NOVA 46000 Comet II Midi Lathe during forward and reverse turningDedicated to fit 1" x 8tpi lathe spindles. Accepts full range of NOVA Chuck AccessoriesOpen back for easy cleaningFast comfortable T Bar handleHigh powered Tuff...
15. Bundle - 2 items - NOVA 48202 G3 Woodlathe Chuck (Includes 2" Jaws and Woodworm Screw) with IDNS 1" X 8TPI Insert Adapter
- Quick one handed operation
- Includes 2" jaws, woodworm screw, and 1" x 8tpiadaptor insert to lathe
- Ideal for Mini, Midi, and lathes up to 14" swing
- Capable of turning up to a 12" bowl
Features:
16. 3M(TM) Half Facepiece Respirator Assembly 6291/07002(AAD), Medium, with 3M(TM) Particulate Filters 2091/07000(AAD), P100
- Assembly includes Half Facepiece Respirator and Particulate Filter 2091 P100
- Half facepiece design combines comfort and convenience
- Remarkably comfortable, soft, lightweight facepiece and easy-to-adjust head straps
- Removable filters can be replaced with NIOSH approved 3M filters and cartridges
- NIOSH approved for environments containing certain oil and non-oil based particles
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Features:
17. Hurricane Turning Tools, Woodturning Heavy Duty Right and Left Side 1 1/2"W x 3/8� Curved Scraper Set, High Speed Steel
- Includes: 1 1/2" Right Side and 1 1/2" Left Side Curved Scraper
- HurricaneTools_HTT-120, HurricaneTools_HTT-121
- Used to cut wood at a blunt angle. Scrapers will not produce a finish that is as good as a gouge, but are useful in many situations where cutting with a gouge would be difficult or a fine finish is not required
- Made from High Speed Steel with solid beech handle
- Available separately or in sets
Features:
18. NOVA 46300 Comet II Variable Speed Mini Lathe 12-Inch x 16 1/2-Inch
- Speed range from 250 to 4000rpm - best in the market
- 12" swing over bed and 16.5" between centers
- 3 Step Pulley Systemto dial in low, medium and high speed ranges
- 3/4HP Electronic Variable Speed Motor - Improved
Features:
19. NOVA I9NS 3/4-Inch 16 Thread Chuck Insert/Adaptor to fit Nova Insert Type Chucks Only
- 3/4" x 16tpi Adapter Insert, fits all Nova Insert Type chucks
- M38 External Thread fits Nova Insert Chucks
Features:
20. PSI Woodworking CUG3418CC Utility Grip 4-Jaw Lathe Chuck System
- Heavy duty chrome-plated self-centering chuck will hold your work tight & secure on midi and full size woodworking lathes
- Chuck is pre-threaded to 1" x 8tpi and includes 3/4" x 16tpi headstock spindle adaptor; Chuck body weighs 4 lbs and is 4" in diameter
- Includes #1 step jaws 3/32" to 1-7/8" External & 11/32" to 3-3/8" Internal; Includes #2 round jaws 1-1/2" to 3-1/8" External & 2" to 3-7/8" Internal
- Includes screw chuck, allen wrench, and a set of tightening levers
- This "C-Series" chuck is compatible with all "C-Series" jaws and accessories
Features:
First off, pick up a inexpensive roughing gouge. Very easy to use, and it's the right tool for turning square things round. Once you've done that, then you can use your micro set to shape. Here's the one I use. That brand is sold on Amazon and is quite the bargain for what you get in a tool.
A 1/2" gouge is generally (not always) going to be a bowl gouge. While a usable tool that will expand your abilities on the lathe, it's a bit of overkill for the task you're after. I'd use a spindle gouge or a detail gouge. (Pretty much the same tool but sharpened differently for different effect.) I'd go with a spindle gouge now since they are a bit more forgiving than a detail gouge while learning, and you can always sharpen it to a more dramatic angle later on. Again, check amazon for their Hurricane line and see if they have one as it's likely the best bang for your buck and will save you some cash. 3/8" is a good size, but you could go smaller for your work as well if you were so inclined.
That said, it sounds like you shouldn't put too much money into tools until you go down the rabbit hole of sharpening. You could spend a few bucks on some diamond cards and do it by hand, but that will take forever and you'll be less inclined to keep your tools sharp. The generally agreed upon system is the Wolverine system with the varigrind jig paired with a bench grinder. (Ideally a slow speed grinder, but if you're careful you don't need that. Mine is a $15 clearance ryobi that I upgraded the wheels on.) This complete system can run $150 (used, if you're lucky) to $300+ depending on how crazy you want to go. The good news is, much of it can be bought in stages based on need. For instance, you don't need the varigrind attachment yet if you're not using spindle / bowl gouges, so you could save you $50 for now. And when you get really good at that system, you can start eyeing the Tormek systems. Mwah-hah-hah-hah-ha! (Don't. They are amazing, and I'm glad I have one, but I also wouldn't recommend it to most people. Love mine...but the price is STUPID.)
Basically...you have a rabbit hole to go down. Your tools should be sharpened multiple times during turning for the best finished product. My best advice is to search this sub for the many sharpening posts and get a feel for other people's experience.
Good luck!
> The Lathe:
Sounds like you've got this well under control.
> The Tools:
There are very split camps on tools: replaceable carbide tips vs traditional tools. Personally I think both have a place, but I do feel it's best to start with traditional tools to learn the how and why tools work the way they do. My personal opinion is always to spend the real money on good tools. They don't have to be expensive, but the right tool of the right quality (sharp, of course) will make all the difference in the world. Every try to dig a post hole with a hand trowel? :)
Also don't feel bound by just one brand or type of tool...most of us have lots of tools!
You can go with carbide-tipped tools such as Easy Wood Tools, Simple Woodturning Tools, or other brands. You can make your own for a fraction of the cost to buy.
There are a few of good entry-level HSS sets out there for about $80, such as this frequently recommended set of Benjamin's Best. I also like Hurricane brand tools which I feel are excellent entry-level HSS tools for the money. Either of those would serve you well through the learning curve and a good ways into your turning career.
If you wanted to pick just two higher-end tools, I feel Crown's Pro PM are good for the price. I own several, they're nice, but the handles are a bit short for my knuckle-dragging frame! All you really need for the projects you listed is a skew chisel and a spindle gouge.
Lastly, you could buy some of the popular "buy it for life" tools like Thompson Lathe Tools or D-Way Tools. These are widely considered the upper end of turning tools with each tool running between $55-200 (handles sold separately). Many people who get serious about their hobby end up with these tools because the harder tool steels are more durable.
> The Bench Grinder:
The Rikon 80-805 is the most common good deal for a grinder. Occasionally some other Asia-import will pop up on the scene for a little while, but the Rikon is pretty predictable about going on sale. Also, it comes with two decent wheels to get you started; not all import grinders come with decent wheels.
Eventually you might want to invest in CBN wheels to replace the frangible wheels that come on the grinder, but that's probably down the road for you.
Lots of people use that grinder, I've not heard anything outright bad about it (although some people prefer one with more HP).
> Drill Press?
A cheap drill press will get you there just fine.
The most common alternative is to purchase a 4-jaw chuck, such as the Nova G3 (which requires the appropriate insert), and also a set of pen drilling jaws and a drill chuck for the tailstock. That lets you drill blanks entirely on the lathe (and with better accuracy than a drill press IMO).
The downside is that the 4-jaw chuck, insert, jaws, and drill chuck collectively will cost damn near $200, which is a lot more than a cheap drill press. The upside is that the chuck is exactly what you will need if you decide to get deeper into turning and want to try bowls, boxes, and other things. Many of us already owned or planned to own a chuck, so the only real cost addition was the pen drilling jaws and the drill chuck.
> Pen turning attachments
If you plan on using something else for the finish, make sure you buy what you need.
A topic like this just came up, here's what I said then.
The Hurricane Tools are pretty decent. I've never tried carbide turning tools, but I feel that regular steel tools are just as good.
I primarily use the bowl gouge set, and then for everything else, I bought the cheap Benjamin's best 8-piece set.
For almost a year I sharpened them by hand because I really was unsure of grinding. I just have a cheap 6" grinder with stock wheels, that I always feel like it would eat up, and burn the tools. I was really tempted to buy the wolverine jig, so I tried to copy it out of wood. I replicated both of these jigs (though the one on the left is all you really need) and used some old rusty flat head screw drivers to practice the bevel. It worked surprisingly well on the screw drivers, I could even turn with them.
Sharpening the actual tools worked fantastically well, they finally "cut" for the first time, heh. Again, I thought I would burn them up, but light even pressure, and multiple passes made it super simple. It really only takes a few seconds to sharpen them, it actually takes me longer to adjust my custom jig. If you're using the same tool, and jig position, it's super easy though.
Next you'll be wanting info on chucks ;)
That Rikon is a great little machine and it's on sale for $299.00 here ($43 shipping though, but still, it'll save you a little).
We were talking gouges over in /r/woodworking this morning and the harbor freight set actually got a pretty good mention in terms of good steel and edge retention. It's an $80 set, try to get a 20% off coupon & bring the cost down to $64.00.
So we've got ~$90.00 left, and I would use part of that for a bowl gouge because I was looking at the harbor freight sets just now and they don't really include one of those. The Hurricane tools on Amazon seem to be getting good reviews and since your budget will likely allow for just one, I'd recommend this 3/8" one as the most useful all around size.
That leaves you around $50.00 or so.
ETA: I have the Rikon so let me know if you have any more questions about it. The belt changes are easy on it.
Are you turning green wood or dry wood? Green is easier to turn, but you're not going to get a great final cut until it's dry ... especially before you've gotten a lot more experience. Bowls aggravated the Hell outta me for a while, but the more I turn, the more I figure out. I'm mostly concentrating on rough turning green bowls now so that I have plenty of dried ones to finish by the time I'm better at it.
Scrapers do help me get a better final cut.
You mentioned sharpening. Tools don't have to be razor sharp, but they do need a good, consistent edge. Good jigs are the only way that I'm able to keep mine like they should be. I use a Rikon slow speed grinder with a Wolverine One Way jig, and the vari-grind attachment for my bowl gouges.
Oh yeah ... the 40 pounder that fell off... Use your tailstock for support as long as you can, at least with the big pieces. When I first started turning bowls, I had several that would get ripped off. Usually a bad catch is what did it, but it also had to do with not cutting the dovetail on my foot or mortise that matched my jaws. Until I figured out how to do that properly, I avoided the bigger pieces.
Best of luck. I'm sure you can do it if you keep pushing!
I don't see safety gear on here. Take that $20 you were going to spend on a grinding wheel and pick this up before you get anything else: Face Shield
I'm going to assume you already have safety glasses. Make sure to use both; the face shield is not intended to be a replacement for safety glasses.
Once you have all of that...save more money! Depending on what you like to turn, you've got plenty more that you're going to want to buy:
General Accessories: Live center & jacob's chuck for your tailstock. A good light that you can reposition as needed. Some sort of rack to keep your chisels close at hand (you can make this if you have the tools to do so). Grinding supplies (grinder, grinding jig/accessories, slip stones/strops, aluminum oxide grinding wheel - assuming you're using a standard dry grinder). A smock (trust me on this one).
Pen Turning: Pen mill, drill bits (keep in mind most pen kits use metric sizes), pen mandrel, different sized bushings (assuming you want to turn different pen styles), pen press for assembly purposes.
Bowl/Vessel Turning: 4-jaw chuck (these can get pricey; there's some on the market that cost more than your Rikon lathe), additional jaws for your 4-jaw chuck, specialty turning tools (bowl gouges, hollowing tools), and many more things that start to get handy as you work on larger projects.
Turning's a fun hobby, but like any hobby worth a damn, it's not cheap. :)
Edit: One thing I haven't seen mentioned is looking for a used lathe. Modern ones tend to get snapped up pretty quickly on Craigslist, but if you can get lucky enough to come across one, you might save yourself some cash.
I totally agree! I only just started turning this month and within the first week my nose started bleeding like crazy from all the sawdust. I just bought the GVS Elipse from Amazon for $20 and I am soooo thankful I did. With that and the Honeywell face shield for another $20, I can turn all day without any issues. It feels like I'm breathing in clean cool air. It's awesome. VERY MUCH recommended.
What is the difference between these two sets(aside from number of pieces)?
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000KIECW4/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000KI8CTS/ref=ox_sc_act_title_3?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER
I am trying to figure out what to get for my boyfriend for Christmas, and he's in a similar situation of having a lathe but no turning tools. I also have a face shield in my amazon cart. He's had a box of smaller turning blanks for a while now.
He does a reasonable amount of woodworking(makes a lot of furniture, is super into hand tools), but he's new to turning, so if you have any suggestions, it would be appreciated!
note, they are right about the mandrel, but if you want to drill the blank on the lathe, you'll need a jacobs chuck and a regular one. I got a cheap Grizzly and it works great on my harbor freight lathe(18x10)
http://www.amazon.com/Grizzly-H8049-6-Inch-4-Jaw-1-Inch/dp/B000M63176/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1451192165&sr=8-6&keywords=lathe+chuck
http://www.amazon.com/PSI-Woodworking-Products-TM32-Diameter/dp/B004CVJC20/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1451192244&sr=8-1&keywords=jacobs+chuck
Side note, some pen kits are fine to turn between centers but a mandrel is certainly the safest.
Close call.
I like the bionic because it has some chin coverage and seems pretty solid but I am sure there ate some great cheaper options. Make sure you get something with anti-fog, it makes a big difference. With the ionic s8510 is the coated, 8500 uncoated.
http://www.amazon.com/Uvex-S8510-Polycarbonate-Anti-Fog-Hardcoat/dp/B001VY3ACE
yes, the same chuck can hold a bowl or a pen or other spindle. you'd just want different jaws for each purpose. The Nova G3 is a favorite here for good reason. it takes just a few minutes to swap out the jaws, and there are a crapload of jaw options available. you should be able to stick with the bowl jaws that (usually) come with the G3 and add a set of spigot jaws like these to help with pens, other spindles, and smaller bowls or boxes.
I have this one and I like it.
Uvex S8510 Bionic Shield, Black Matte Face Shield, Clear Polycarbonate Anti-Fog/Hardcoat Lens https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B001VY3ACE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_5ES-BbNXFWQAT
There are many more expensive ones, but this one works well for me. Comfy and as it turns out safe :)
Amazon. Here's a G3 with the 1x8 dedicated (no insert needed) https://www.amazon.com/NOVA-48232-Reversible-Turning-Chuck/dp/B0074HJ1V6/
But yeah, Nova over the PSI -- because with the Nova, it's a known high QC piece. Their other stuff might not be, but those chucks are well made. You will have compatibility for sure between all Nova and Record jaws. The PSI not so much.
Also, not on that model, but the quick change jaw model on the PSI had a recall in December. So, I can't help but imagining jaws flying off at 3000 RPM. Yeah, not the same chuck, and it would take screws shearing off...but still, that peace of mind is gone.
Ok, here's my list for you.
Lathe: I like this one at Ford Machinery - $500
Chuck: Go with the Nova. I've got two and they work great. - $135
Carbide: Can't go wrong with Easy Wood Tools. Start with the Mini tools. When you need cutters, contact me and I'll hook you up. - $120 each, $360 for the set of 3.
Face shield: I just ordered this one the other day. - $35
You're looking at just over $1000 for that setup.
Your spindle is not 1.5", probably or even 1". I'd bet good money that your spindle is 3/4" diameter and 16 threads per inch. I have a very large lathe and my spindle is only 1.25". Look for a chuck with a 3/4" x 16 thread or one that can take a 3/4" x 16 threaded insert. The standard recommendation around here is the Nova G3. It's a little over your budget but you won't ever regret the purchase. Do NOT buy the chuck you linked to. It's not meant to hold wood and the jaws are independent which means you have to adjust each jaw separately - good luck getting things centered.
Assuming the lathe is 3/4 x 16 you want
https://www.amazon.com/NOVA-48202-Turning-Chuck-Insert/dp/B0064JJ52U and https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0064JJ88Q/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1500901907&sr=8-2&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=nova+insert&dpPl=1&dpID=41QjeodDeLL&ref=plSrch
I don't have a drill press. I have had great success with the Barracuda Wood Lathe Chuck and Drill Chuck. This works very well. Still need to tap it out slowly to prevent build up inside the tube.
I don't if I'm rough turning green wood, but usually do wear one if I'm turning dry wood, and always when sanding. I use this one from 3M, which fits under the face shield pretty nicely and isn't too uncomfortable.
1 | Find some cheap (but not crappy) tools. | amazon link
1a | Figure out how to sharpen things. |
2 | Experiment, figure out what works, figure out what kind of turning you want to be doing. | Join the AAW, Find tutorials on youtube.com, take classes at your local woodworking store, etc.
3 | Find great tools. You don't want to spend a ton of time working with crappy tools. | when possible all my future tools will be from this guy: http://d-waytools.com/tools-gouges.html I also have tools from Sorby, Pinnacle, DWay, etc.
I have this set of hurricane gauges that I won at auction ($5 each, thanks failed charter schools!) they work great. You do need to have a good sharpening setup to get the grind you like, though. The one that comes out of the box is very poor.
Okay thank you. Is this what you got? http://www.amazon.com/WOODLATHE-CHUCK-WOODWORM-SCREW-INSERT/dp/B003CECDZG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1370021571&sr=8-1&keywords=nova+g3
I am not going to be purchasing a new chuck and adapter for a few weeks, but if you could chime back and give your input on how the chuck and adapter works for you, that'd be great!
The expert advice is to not buy a set but to instead only buy chisels for what you'll be doing. However if you're exploring turning you really don't know the exact kinds of turning you'll be doing, and you'll always be reading about oddball tools/techniques that you'll want to try.
So I'd advise a starter set that has at least one of each major tool type. This one fits that bill pretty well, I started out with it an still use everything but the "continental gouge".
I have a Nova G3 and love it.. grips like iron.
Woodcraft has them on sale right now.
Also on Amazon for $140 including the 1 x 8tpi adapter and 2" jaw set
If you can go a little higher, I'd recommend the Nova Comet II (NOVA 46300 Comet II Variable Speed Mini Lathe 12-Inch x 16 1/2-Inch https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00C2ASVNY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_itR3AbTP1GG2G). It's what use (and what I got started on), and is a pretty nice workhorse for a bench lathe that's still reasonable in cost.
Well, I never did find the electric, angled, 2" random orbital sander on Amazon. I did find these right angle drills though. A few of the reviews are from bowl turners.
Gino: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00339OU4W/ref=sxbs_sxwds-stvp_1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_p=3341940462&pd_rd_wg=oBi4x&pf_rd_r=ENN5XTK29NAHT4K24BFR&pf_rd_s=desktop-sx-bottom-slot&pf_rd_t=301&pd_rd_i=B00339OU4W&pd_rd_w=QhdDm&pf_rd_i=angle+drill&pd_rd_r=7eca9f4e-76c1-40f3-8d48-8ce5e8541ec9&ie=UTF8&qid=1519856451&sr=1#customerReviews
Neiko: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000XUHA8C/ref=psdc_9022404011_t1_B00339OU4W
And there are a couple different ones at HF if you type "angle drill" in their search box.
A normal drill works. But perhaps the right angle style has better ergonomics, and a grip that is closer to your work. If I ever do find the one I was thinking of I'll be sure to post up.
For Pens, its not so much the tools you need as the accessories. Small tools are fine for pens, there isn't much material. If you really want the bigger tools, this was my starter set and I'm really happy with it.
http://www.amazon.com/PSI-Woodworking-LCHSS8-Chisel-8-Piece/dp/B000KI8CTS/ref=sr_1_1?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1375795181&sr=1-1&keywords=lathe+chisel
Accessories: Pen mandrel, morris taper (probably #2 but check) to hold the mandrel. Bushing set (slimline is easiest to learn with) and CA glue.
awesome, but please buy a face shield! they are cheap on amazon https://www.amazon.com/Bionic-Shield-Clear-Polycarbonate-S8500/dp/B001VXXUWK/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1541119152&sr=8-3&keywords=face+shield
https://www.amazon.com/Uvex-S8510-Polycarbonate-Anti-Fog-Hardcoat/dp/B001VY3ACE bionic face shield is the best short of the powered ones, as far as I'm aware. I have one, find it doesn't fog easily, and when cleaned is crystal clear.
Edit: Depending on where you are in the world, this is still probably sold, but under different brands. Honeywell is the parent company I believe, so its sold under 'Uvex', 'Sperian', 'Honeywell' and probably others. If you're in Australia, RSEA have these shields, though you may have to special order the non-fog coating.
Save it for later.
Gain proficiency on sacrificial pieces first.
I used this starting out:
https://www.amazon.com/Hurricane-Turning-Tools-Woodturning-Inches/dp/B008AVM7W0
For that depth you can likely use a 3/8" bowl gouge instead of 1/2".
http://www.amazon.com/Neiko-8-Inch-55-Degree-Quarters-Right-Angle/dp/B000XUHA8C/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1418839114&sr=8-2&keywords=angle+drill
this angle drill is widely used by turners for all grits + buffing. They're inexpensive, they don't last forever, they are much better than hand sanding.
I bought this one and it works pretty well, especially for beginner stuff. I can answer questions about it too. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01CS30G5K/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Pick up some neoprene gloves for oily woods like that, especially if they're already causing irritation. I don't know about cocobolo specifically, but many woods can have health effects if inhaled, or you touch the oils too much, and you can become more sensitive to them as you work with them more. Also pick up a respirator, I have an older model similar to this one, and it's quite nice, doesn't bother me in the slightest.
I haven't bought the chuck yet.
Would this work instead of Nova's unthreaded adapter? (I don't have a machinist friend). Looks like I would put this on the 3/4" 10 TPI spindle, then put the Nova adapter on that, then the chuck. Essentially, an adapter for an adapter.
https://www.amazon.com/PSI-Woodworking-LA341018-Headstock-Spindle/dp/B000KI8CBQ
Thanks for the recommendation on the Oneways. They are a little more expensive than the Nova so if I can't swing it with an adapter, then I will go with Oneway.
The taper is a 2. This is the one I bought. Works great.
I use this hurricane one and it's great.
I have had good luck with the Neiko Close quarter drill .
One word of advise, those sanding pads tend to heat up and melt the Velcro on the back, making them useless after that (learned the hard way). So take it slow and let it cool often.
If you can part with $35 or so, I suggest this in the interim:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004CVJC20/ref=oh_details_o01_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
What I do is make a basic shape with the spindles on the lathe, then drill a hole lengthwise through the peice. Then run a bolt through the wood, so that it sticks out 1" or so on one side. Then clamp the bolt with this chuck.
Yeah, there's a hole in your piece, but it adds a little freedom until you have $180 to drop on a chuck.
See MS paint drawing below. The wood is a cutaway view.
http://i.imgur.com/TY8f5aJ.png
Don't sweat it, I have the same lathe. It's not some one off oddball, so you can find anything you want for it, just like the Jet mini's and stuff.
I have this chuck, these pen jaws, and this pen mandrel. Oh, and this drill chuck.
The chuck comes with everything you need to get started with bowls and such. All the other stuff I use for pens.
Your two cents are well worth having, when I said day it's because I need to change the shape of my tools and put on the edge again. When I first started I picked up this set of tools and from all of the reading I've been doing about angles and grinds I want to take the time to make mine right instead of what came out of the box.
Face shield!!! $15
set of basic lathe tools PSI has a decent set for sale $80
http://www.amazon.com/PSI-Woodworking-LCHSS8-Chisel-8-Piece/dp/B000KI8CTS/ref=pd_sim_sbs_hi_4/180-3590963-5929100
Wood from neighborhood=free
reddit for cool ideas=free
you'll have to figure out where to spend your last $5
No problem. I just checked mine, and the threading is 3/4 inch 16 thread. Because this is a bit of a strange size I had to get an adapter to make my nova chuck fit. You might have to do the same when you get a chuck. Mine has a mt1 tail stock, so my drill chuck is mt1.
I looked it up, and it appears that your lathe has the same specs as mine,but I make no promises.
By the way, good luck with your turning.
this is the most popular shield amung turners.
another question i had if i go with the Harbor freight one would Nova 48232 G3 Reversible Chuck be a good choice for this?
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0074HJ1V6/ref=cm_sw_su_dp
I highly recommend this face shield;
http://www.amazon.com/Uvex-S8510-Polycarbonate-Anti-Fog-Hardcoat/dp/B001VY3ACE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1418785379&sr=8-1&keywords=Bionic+face+shield
I checked that as well, and it also specifically says that safety glasses must be worn with it. Link : http://www.amazon.com/Uvex-S8510-Polycarbonate-Anti-Fog-Hardcoat/dp/B001VY3ACE
Also, out of curiosity,what respirator do you use?
It's worth it's weight in gold; at least once a month it stops a big chunk from getting me in the neck or face. This one's been serving me well.
I just got the Hurricane roughing gouge for $24.00 off of Amazon.
Careful though it jumped up to $34.00 soon after I bought it. As of this posting it is now $23.99
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008B86DLS/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
That chuck is designed for a metal lathe... what you need is something along the lines of this: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01CS30G5K/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1483137526&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65
Not sure if your chuck can be adapted to fit the 3/4" 16tpi threads on the HF 8x12.
I bought a nova G3 reversable off of Amazon for $107 a couple weeks ago. Looking at woodcraft they have it at $175 just fyi. Even on sale you're not going to beat that deal.
Similar product, but cheaper.
FWIW, not sure if the difference is worth the extra $.
This is the one I own, and it's great. I took it off about 90 seconds before this happened because it was fogging up and I thought "eh, it'll be fine. Not like this is gonna come flying out of the chuck..."
I've been using the 12x33 lathe and that exact chuck for about a year now with no complaints about either. I make a variety of things including bowls and handles. If you plan on turning larger pieces though (12"+ dia.), the slowest speed may not be slow enough for your liking.
For the price point, I recommend the Hurricane bowl gouge set: https://www.amazon.com/Hurricane-Turning-Tools-Woodturning-Inches/dp/B008DH8ZM2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1495218437&sr=8-1&keywords=hurricane+bowl+gouge+set
https://www.amazon.com/Ellsworth-Woodturning-Master-Creates-Vessels/dp/1565233778
Here is the mobile version of your link
Buy one of these PSI Woodworking LA341018 Headstock Spindle Adapter (3/4-Inch x 10tpi to 1-Inch x 8 tpi chuck) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000KI8CBQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_YePZBbYTWPDDY. Then you are set up with the most common spindle/tpi size.
Do a 3/4 10tpi to 1X8 tpi. then get a faceplate.
1X8 is common so it opens you up to other stuff.
PSI woodworking, it will cost you around $34
Assuming you live in the US. http://www.amazon.com/Sperian-Protection-S8500-Bionic-Shield/dp/B001VXXUWK/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1454092910&sr=8-1&keywords=face+shield
https://www.amazon.com/Uvex-Bionic-Polycarbonate-Anti-Fog-S8510/dp/B001VY3ACE/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1525609002&sr=8-3&keywords=uvex+face+shield
The Nova II Comet was literally just on sale (on Amazon) it's currently listed out of stock, but it was 479 with the g3 chuck.
You can get it right now without the chuck for 443 (https://smile.amazon.com/NOVA-46300-Variable-12-Inch-2-Inch/dp/B00C2ASVNY/ref=s9u_simh_gw_i1?_encoding=UTF8&fpl=fresh&pd_rd_i=B00C2ASVNY&pd_rd_r=PRNFDTRGP0MVR202FWE0&pd_rd_w=JQkum&pd_rd_wg=KYmcN&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=desktop-1&pf_rd_r=9YS7ERBDCJAMAXRRZW38&pf_rd_r=9YS7ERBDCJAMAXRRZW38&pf_rd_t=36701&pf_rd_p=781f4767-b4d4-466b-8c26-2639359664eb&pf_rd_p=781f4767-b4d4-466b-8c26-2639359664eb&pf_rd_i=desktop) and the chuck is 99.
https://www.amazon.com/PSI-Woodworking-LCHSS8-Chisel-8-Piece/dp/B000KI8CTS/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?keywords=wood+turning+gouges&qid=1568416993&s=gateway&sr=8-4
Has worked well for me to start with. One tool is useless and when I took a class from someone in the club with a lot of experience he had to look it up. And what we found was most people reshaped it to something else.
So just hauled my grandfather's lathe home and was anxious to start making wood chips and dust. Found a roughly straight oak log and went to town after de-barking.
Lathe I used. More info shows that it is a 12x42. After finishing the piece I noticed that the tailstock is seized up and not sure how to go about in repairing. I dosed with PB blaster and will let it sit for a day. I'm sure the friction and heat helped the bearing /s ... stupid I know.
Minus heating up the tailstock, the wood borer'd oak, and the dull chisels everything went well. I am looking at this set and this chuck, would these be good for beginner use? Looking for some feedback.
this. i don't want my safety gear made by the lowest bidder. get yourself a bionic face shield. http://www.amazon.com/Uvex-S8510-Polycarbonate-Anti-Fog-Hardcoat/dp/B001VY3ACE