New tools

[darrenjttu]

I am about to upgrade from a begginers sey to Sorby and I was wondering are they really that much better? I have a couple of specialized Sorby tools and have been impressed. I cant wait to get my hands on the bread and butter tools. What does everyone else think?

 

[Dario]

Depends on what tools you are talking about.

For most, I find Crown ProPM to offer better value than the Sorby counterpart.

JMHO.

 

[Verne]

Darin, I Got a couple Sorby's last Christmas and I can't say I am overly impressed. They do make sawdust but so does my old $39 set.
Vern

 

[Wildman]

Once thought Henry Taylor tools gave you best bang for your tool buying bucks. Not that impressed with HT tools these days, also won't buy any more of their KRYO brand. Last purchase 3/8", ½" M2 spindle gouges and one ½" Rounded Edge KRYO skew. They are okay, my older HT tools held an edge longer. Also have tools from both Crown & Sorby.

Unless you're a professional, and can write off your tool purchases shop for bargains. M2 HSS turning tools will serve you well.

Have looked at Thompson tools, unless you make your own handles they're as expensive as Glaser tools.

I've been looking at P&N Tools, to replace bowl & spindle gouges as required. Will make my own wood handles if get any of those. Before buying anything will look all the major tool makers for best price on tool I need.

Packard Woodworks is offering buy 2 tools, get 10% off pages 2-11 Fall 2008 catalog. Brands include Hamlet, Crown, Sorby, Henry Taylor, P&N, and others. Other suppliers are offering similar discounts so just shop em all..

http://www.packardwoodworks.com

 

[nava1uni]

I think that keeping your tools sharp is the most important thing you can do to make turning a nice experience. I have a small round nosed scraper that I got as part of a mini set and it is amazing how well it works. All I do is sharpen it often and pass a credit card shaped diamond sharpener over it while turning and it works really well. I use the sharpener on all of my tools while turning and it keeps them all very sharp, which makes everything even acrylic turn in threads and real easily.

 

[darrenjttu]

I keep my tools very sharp. I have a BB pen turning tools and since then I have moved on to bigger things like bowls and hollow forms. Its hard but I have managed but now I think it is time to upgrade.