Ok so i decieded to try a different style of pen so I ordered several diplomats and siera kits and wanted to try one. All went well till I went to put it together. I was lost on how to do that, but by a fluke I figured it out. The only sorta big problem I see is that where the nib meets the wood there is a gap there. Now that might be normal but I just assumed that as the rest of the kits were snugged at that point this should be also. But seeing that this is my first one. I am pleased with it overall.
First Diplomat 2
- Thread starter sumterdad
- Start date
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76winger
Member
It's basically the same as the Gatsbys I've made, and I've not seen the gap like that. Could there be some glue in the tube or some other obstruction that kept the nib from pressing on to a snug fit?
Displaced Canadian
Member
Nice looking piece of wood. Is it possible the gap is there because of too much trimmed off with the barrel trimmer? just spit balling, I don't do many of that style of pen. Other than the gap it looks quite good.
76winger
Member
Good looking pen by the way! I like the burl.
ed4copies
Local Chapter Manager
Both suggestions are good, Chris.
There is a fair amount of "slop" in the design, so I'd be more inclined to believe there's something blocking the "closing" of that space. (glue left in tube--best guess).
Nice piece of wood and great finish!!!
Keep improving!!
There is a fair amount of "slop" in the design, so I'd be more inclined to believe there's something blocking the "closing" of that space. (glue left in tube--best guess).
Nice piece of wood and great finish!!!
Keep improving!!
rizaydog
Member
Very nice pen. Burls are great.
Yea when I started turning pens a couple months ago I just wanted to turn something out of wood. Now I am a little more specific of how the wood looks. Don't get me wrong about straight grain pens they look fine but the burls just stand out more.
Bobalu
Member
Looks like you might be turning a bit out of round from pic 2. Mandrel might be bent, or bushings could be out of round.
On pens like these, you're are always going to have a slight gap where the nib end and barrel meet. It has to rotate there. I always sand the ends to insure there is no excess CA hanging off the edge and clean the inside of the brass tube with a deburring tool or countersink bit in a hand drill to insure it gets as close a fit as possible.
On pens like these, you're are always going to have a slight gap where the nib end and barrel meet. It has to rotate there. I always sand the ends to insure there is no excess CA hanging off the edge and clean the inside of the brass tube with a deburring tool or countersink bit in a hand drill to insure it gets as close a fit as possible.