Well in my experience good is better than dubious anytime. So this is my 2cents;
Chucks
- NOva
- Onway
- EWT (if you got money)
Gouges
Grinding
- Wolvering system
- CBN wheels
I buy the carbide inserts and make most of my gauges, I use 2 Supernova 2 chucks and Midi chuck all nova so I can share the jaws.
As for HSS Gauges more important that the brand is the steel so you can find good gauges and good price.
Pen turning:
3 mandrels, one sized for only one tube, and 2 sized regular, 1 for turning 1 for finishing.
Mandrel saver-note you can use the mandrel with the treads on the inside so you can use the mandrel as short as possible.
1 60 deg dead center
1 60 deg live center for turning pens between centers
pen press
Boy what a wish list
Joey