Pen Turning Tools -- another newbie question

[Bill Arnold]

I have a 12-36 lathe and about 16 different tools -- gouges, chisels, etc. -- with it. In reviewing pen-turning tools, the only difference I see is they are shorter versions of "regular" turning tools. Will I have any issues using regular tools rather than those specifically marketed for pen-turning?

 

[jimbryan]

To answer quickly,NO!!! I turn most of my pens with a 1 inch oval skew. I prefer large tools because you can do small work with large tools,but it is hard to do large work with small tools. Also , Welcome!!!!

 

[dkarcher]

Bill, I use the 16" handle tools for most of my turning. Gives me better leverage even on a mini-lathe.

 

[ed4copies]

Big tools = Less vibration.

Last two passes you may want a smaller tool Got an old screwdriver, make a new skew.

FWIW

 

[maxwell_smart007]

Pen tools = opportunity to sell you more tools that you'll rarely use...

 

[dalemcginnis]

I bought a set of pen tools. The only one I ever use is the parting tool, the rest just sit in a drawer taking up space. I use a 1/2" curved skew, start to finish on my pens.

 

[MarkHix]

What they said. I don't have any small tools.

 

[Jarheaded]

I have made a lot of pens and have never even owned pen turning tools. But they sure are cute little things.

 

[Bill Arnold]

I have made a lot of pens and have never even owned pen turning tools. But they sure are cute little things.

Your comment seems to summarize what others have said! That's why I rely on forums like this for "real world" information!!! :wink:

 

[wicook]

I have a different opinion...at least somewhat. I just bought a Delta L200 midi and it came with a set of penturning chisels (nice extra). I find the skew way too small to use on pen barrels, but the parting tool and the larger gouge (it was a 5-piece set) are very useful. I find the larger gouge (1/4"?) to be much better at removing waste quickly than the larger standard gouges. However, I still use my 1" full-sized skew because that little guy just can't be used to smooth out the gouge cuts very effectively because of its size.

 

[shull]

Ditto to the others. Pen tools make a great give-away for vendors to sweeten the pot on lathe purchases. Most never see the light of day after the first couple of pens. Worse is the number of newbie turners that get turned off to the craft because of the frustration using these paperweights.