Help Needed

[Dieter]

Hi everyone,

I'm interested in getting into pen turning, what type of chisels would you recommended for this.


Thanks

 

[denoto]

I use 3, a 1/2" roughing gouge made by Sorby, 1/2" skew(Sorby) and a parting tool.

 

[Rifleman1776]

The simple answer is what works best for you. I use a 1/2" gouge, 1" skew for 90% of pen turning. Occasionally, I'll use a 1/2" skew to bring the ends down to a perfect fit with the bushings. I know that a point is a point and it shouldn't make any difference but the smaller skew seems to work better for me on fine cuts.

 

[JimGo]

I use a Benjamin's Best oval skew (http://www.pennstateind.com/store/lx030.html) and love it (I only use skews and parting/tennoning tools (http://www.pennstateind.com/store/lcten.html) for my pen turning). I used to use a rectangular skew, and switching to the oval skew made a big difference. I started with the skew because I had heard that it can be the hardest tool to master, and I figured since I didn't know anything anyway, I may as well start with that one! I didn't find it to be too difficult to learn. If you decide to go the skew route, check out Alan Lacer's skew videos, too - they are very informative.

 

[Dario]

For pens, all I am using are the parting tool, roughing gouge and big skew from HarborFreight's 8 pc HSS set. I bought my set 3 years ago and almost all are still full size. The price is right too ($25.00 then) but even at $40.00 it is still a bargain.

All I can say is, I can't make better pens even if I use much more expensive tools. I cannot say the same for bowls though []

 

[jeffj13]

I too have the HF set of chisels. I use the roughing gouge and round nose scraper from that set. I also use a Crown detail gouge.

Once I figure out how to use a skew, I might give that a try.

jeff

 

[its_virgil]

Learning to use the skew would be the best skill you can acquire for penturning...and other turing also. I use a skew for the entire pen...from beginning to end. And, I start sanding at 320.
Do a good turn daily!
Don

Originally posted by jeffj13
<br />I too have the HF set of chisels. I use the roughing gouge and round nose scraper from that set. I also use a Crown detail gouge.

Once I figure out how to use a skew, I might give that a try.

jeff