Edward Miller
Member
I know this subject has been hashed over a million times but, I still have some specific questions. I have finally decided to take that big leap and invest in pen making equipment. I have ordered the harbor freight chisels, woodcraft slow speed grinder, and a vacuum pump. I will be ordering a PSI Turn Crafter Pro midi lathe with an extention bed, PSI Wolverine knock off sharpening jig, and the PSI duplicator. My (very cheap Chinese made) drill press can only about 2 1/4" deep, would I be better off buying the tools that would let me drill blanks on the lathe or getting a different drill press? Also what tools specifically would you recommend to do this with, is it any easier, more accurate, or difficult to drill blanks on the lathe? I see that pen mills come in 1/2" and 3/4", would I really need two or will the 3/4" also square up the smaller blanks? when it comes to mandrels, I see that Arizona Silhouette has them priced anywhere from 15 to 26 dollars, is the 26 dollar one actually a better deal because it is adjustable or is the cheaper one with the interchangable shafts a better choice? Also is the tail center that comes with the lathe ok or should I buy an additional 60 degree tail center that is made to work with a metal mandrel? I also plan on getting in a stock of mm, the 3 thickness' of ca, lots of tubes to practice turning and finishing on before I actually try making a pen. I have spoken to many of you personally and appreciate all the advice you have given me thus far especially Greg Darling who took the time to show me how to turn a pen. So, if anyone out there has any last minute suggestions for a novice before I place this order, it will be appreciated.
Ed
Ed