Boring head for outside

[Markyg]

First, I am newbie, so be gentle! I want to primarily make rings from wood and acrylic. I have a boring head for turning the inside to size. I was also hoping to use it to turn the outside down to size (after roughing close by hand). Depending on the ring size, I can likely use the center hole and position the boring bar on the front side (normal side) of the lathe, but I will need a left hand version of the boring bar. I get all that.

The head also has an offset hole but it's on the back side. I could rotate the head upside down and use a left hand bar, but the adjustment would be on the back. Not ideal.

So my question is: Can I use the offset (or center) hole with the right hand cutter with the head in the normal position with the bar at the back of the stock? It's not normal to cut from the back but I also won't be holding a cutting tool with my hand or needing the tool rest. Comments (and thanks)?

 

[KenB259]

I use a boring head from time to time, not in rings though. I believe if you try to cut on the back side you will be risking whatever you have in the headstock turning itself loose. Pretty much all that will holding your work piece is the grub screw of your chuck.

 

[Markyg]

Good point.

 

[Paul in OKC]

Don't think that would work without a left handed cutter, or having a reversible motor. At least with the 'normal' cutter configuration on the boring bar.

 

[darrin1200]

Try flipping the cutter, so the cutting edge is facing down.

 

[Markyg]

I ordered a left -handed cutter.