Lathe tools?

[nightowl]

I am asking for some new turning tools for Father's Day. Can anyone tell me where I can get a good set for around $150. All I have now is the beginners 3-pack set. I would like to have some longer tools so if I decide to turn a deeper bowl I will be able too. Thanks in advance for the help.

 

[rlharding]

kmstools.com

 

[PaulDoug]

I would really think about buying individual tools versa a set. There are always things in a set that you will not use. Just my experience.

 

[JoeP]

For a reasonable price, I like the Benjamin's Best from PSI. I have a Sorby 1/2" bowl gouge and a Benjamin's Best 5/8" bowl gouge and I find no noticeable difference between them (other than size). Plus, I don't feel so bad about grinding down a $22 tool versus a $75 tool.

 

[ed4copies]

I agree Benjamin's Best are GOOD. A little lighter than some others, so they don't dampen vibration as well, but GREAT for the PRICE!!

May want to get a heavier roughing gouge and if you are doing bowls, ask for some advice on bowl gouges. I don't do many, but I find the heft is very helpful in bowl turning so I would probably buy better tools for that purpose.

FWIW!!

 

[heineda]

I recently bought a 5 pc. set of Woodcrafts Pinnacle turning tools. I am thrilled with the feel and quality of these tools. I paid 129.99. They have long handles, which helps me to control the tool better. I took them home from the store, and all I have had to do so far was to hone them on my paper wheel with green rouge, and my floppy wheel with diamond rouge, and they are razor sharp again. A good strop would probably do the same thing.

Dan

 

[BullDurham]

Here are a few to look @, good tools to have on hand.

http://www.easywoodtools.com/

http://www.thompsonlathetools.com/

 

[follow3]

Originally posted by ed4copies

I agree Benjamin's Best are GOOD. A little lighter than some others, so they don't dampen vibration as well, but GREAT for the PRICE!!

May want to get a heavier roughing gouge and if you are doing bowls, ask for some advice on bowl gouges. I don't do many, but I find the heft is very helpful in bowl turning so I would probably buy better tools for that purpose.

FWIW!!

Hey Ed...& others,

How well do the Benjamin's Best tools hold an edge?
I have some el cheapo tools that I love to use, they are balanced well and cut great...but I have to sharpen twice per pen usually.
Is that normal, or just cheap, lesser grade HSS?

Thanks,
Steve

 

[nightowl]

Thanks for all of your suggestions. I appreciate every word.

 

[Ron in Drums PA]

Originally posted by BullDurham

Here are a few to look @, good tools to have on hand.

http://www.easywoodtools.com/

http://www.thompsonlathetools.com/

What Mike said

Both people who make the above tools are regular guys who turn wood, work a regular day job and who has created a better tool.