Is the PSI pen genie a gimmick or legit?

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SoloWorx

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Joined
Jul 23, 2012
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13
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Pennsylvania
Been turning for about 8 months and use a small carbide tipped gouge to rough and do 90% of my finishing. I just can't seem to master a skew without removing nothing, or causing chatter, or chipping. So, I just stick with what i can use.

That said. I love the carbide tipped tool because I don't have to sharpen and that saves me time and money in additional equipment. I know pros....lazy mans approach.

All that said, I see the carbide insert tool from PSI pen genie. It has different tool inserts, all flat, all 2" rad, combo. Thinking about biting but 60 is a little salty considering the insert is only about $15. Anyone have a tool like this. Is it forgiving or limiting? Useful? Gimmick or legit?
 
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JohnU

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Jan 31, 2008
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Ottawa, Illinois
I don't know about the PSI copy, but I do own the Woodchuck pro tool made by Ken, wgo is a member here. He was the original inventor of that tool until many companies copied him. I have turned many pens with it and love it. Ive used it for turning gator jaw bone, mammoth ivory, tru stone and acrylics. there was a minor learning curve for me because i wasnt used to having such sharp tools. Also, it leaves a very smooth surface which really cuts down on my sanding. Not to mention Ken is a great guy, a wood turner and an IAP supporter and I like to support the members here.

Woodchuck link... Tools
 
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I got one of PSI pen genie and I was surprised at how well it performed. The carbide is thinner than others but it is extremely sharp and has held up very well. I find that I reach for it more than any other tool including my C3i I like the size for turning pens. I ordered the extra cutters with all radius edges, I am not a fan of the flat carbide tools. I have used it on wood, acrylic and antler so far with excellent results
 
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Joined
May 14, 2012
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Rapid City,SD
I have not used the PSI carbide tool but look at Capt. Eddie on youtube he has some good videos on using carbide.

Levi Woodard
Woodardwoodworks.com

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SoloWorx

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Jul 23, 2012
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Pennsylvania
Thanks guys. I'm going with the original. If the credit goes to ken with the pen pro woodchuck. Then he deserves the business. I will seek a radius as I can understand the flat being unforgiving. I'll use the link provided.
 

Jim Burr

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Feb 23, 2010
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Reno, Nv
I just started using carbide tools and they are great!! But keep in mind...it's not an "end-all" weapon...just another tool. Keep working on your skew, practice with all your tools makes you proficient in all areas of turning!
 

SoloWorx

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Joined
Jul 23, 2012
Messages
13
Location
Pennsylvania
I will keep practicing for my benefit. But ease of use for pen sales and production is my driver for this. I want to better master the various tools on my time as I expand into more than pens.

I just sent ken an email for a woodchuck invoice via PayPal. Thanks team.
 
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