Barracuda 2 Chuck question

[rsulli16]

hi
I just got the barracuda 2 t/n the gold one from PSI. I am still fairly new to lathes, been making some pens, want to branch out to small bowls, or lidded boxes.

My question is what are the step jaws and the extended pin jaws used for?( not to get ahead of myself, i haven't even got it mounted on the lathe yet), just curious)

I have seen videos on You Tube and saw the chucks in operation with the standard jaws, #2's they're called in this set. I see how they expand and contract to grip inside or outside. also saw the flat ones with the pins used, so i understand those two.

In the Barracuda set, the jaws i am talking about are designated H and J in the paperwork.

The best part, I got the jaws with money from change jars on my dresser at home and in my locker at work so i didn't have to explain a hit in the checking account :biggrin::biggrin::biggrin::biggrin::biggrin::biggrin::biggrin:!!
Thanks
Sulli

 

[KenV]

I use the pin (or pen) jaws a lot to hold small pieces of wood and plastic called pen blanks.

They hold square and some odd sections pretty well just bearing the jaws on the flats with the edges sticking into the gaps.

When I get a really odd shape, I can usually hold one end in the jaws and turn a tenon on the other end at where I want the center to be -- and then mount the tenon in the other end to round the blank.

You can use the pin jaws as an expansion jaw into a 1 3/8 recess that is common for many small clocks, etc. You need straight sides and a good flat bottom.

I have finished a little box bottom or two with the box on the pin jaws.

I have not used the step jaws much. Have used them to turn finials for ornaments.