Parting tool

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darrenjttu said:
What is a good parting tool? I usually stick with Sorby but they all look the same to me. I will primarily use it for cutting off tenons.
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Darren; Look for one of the small 1/16" (narrow) parting tool. It looks vaguely like a putty knife. Since most tenons are 3/16" or under, you don't need a wide parting tool.

When creating the tenon, angle the tool slightly so the center band meets the blank with a tight fit.
 
The parting tool is over-rated. Grind a flat-head screwdriver or even a butter knife. I also made one with a section of used bandsaw blade.
 
My parting tool is not over rated. I put my CA finish on before I part off for a CB so I want something in my hand that I can control. One slip and I'll have to refinish.
I have a Sorby 1/16" parting tool and besides taking and holding a razor sharp edge it feels steady in my hand and that's important TO ME. I also have one I made from a jig saw blade that I use mostly for removing shavings that get wrapped around the blank when I'm turning plastics and Delrin. When I want precision I reach for my Sorby.
 
Have three different parting tools and 3/8" Bedan tool. 3/16" diamond parting tool most versatile and easiest to use. 1/4" regular square shoulder parting tool great for hogging out wood. Narrow parting tool for tight spots.

Also use a 3/8" Bedan tool for sizing tenons, bought it with spindle sizing tool attachment. Not sure where that sizing tool attachment is, remember don't like it very well. Calipers work a whole lot better than sizing tool attachment. More popular in Europe than here. When making big tenons will use a skew chisel for peeling wood fast, then straighten up and final fit with bedan.

Yes, may use all three parting tools on the same project sometimes. If had to get by with just one, it would be the diamond parting tool. The regular square shoulder parting tool would be my second choice. Really could live without the narrow parting tool, still glad I have though.

Have tried using the Bedan like a skew chisel with mixed results. Actually can turn a tenon faster with a skew chisel, usually forget have the Bedan tool.

My parting tools are either Sorby or Henry Taylor.
 
I made my own parting tool and love it. I contacted a guy who sharpens jointer and planer blades, and he sent me three HSS planer blades that were 8" x3/4" x 1/8" for free. I ground the long sharp edge flat, then ground a point, made a handle, and Bob's your uncle. Holds an edge really well and is thin enough, but sturdy enough, to be very versatile.

If you have a sharpening shop near you, they may be able to give you a few for free.
 
I have the same parting tools as Wildman. I like them all for different purposes. If I were to pick one for pen turning, it would be the 1/4" standard (straight sided) parting tool by Sorby (not the diamond parting tool). The Sorby thin parting tool would be my second choice, but almost a tie for first.
-Steve
 
Wildman said:
Have three different parting tools and 3/8" Bedan tool. 3/16" diamond parting tool most versatile and easiest to use. 1/4" regular square shoulder parting tool great for hogging out wood. Narrow parting tool for tight spots.

Also use a 3/8" Bedan tool for sizing tenons, bought it with spindle sizing tool attachment. Not sure where that sizing tool attachment is, remember don't like it very well. Calipers work a whole lot better than sizing tool attachment. More popular in Europe than here. When making big tenons will use a skew chisel for peeling wood fast, then straighten up and final fit with bedan.

Yes, may use all three parting tools on the same project sometimes. If had to get by with just one, it would be the diamond parting tool. The regular square shoulder parting tool would be my second choice. Really could live without the narrow parting tool, still glad I have though.

Have tried using the Bedan like a skew chisel with mixed results. Actually can turn a tenon faster with a skew chisel, usually forget have the Bedan tool.

My parting tools are either Sorby or Henry Taylor.
Click to expand...

I know most people use a bedan as a parting tool (I've use it that way too sometimes), but it's really not. It's really more like a skew, but not really.

I'm still learning to use the bedan the right way myself.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bMDPE8i4LiQ
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kglcgy6TgxU
 
Never used a parting tool in making a pen kit. Yes, know there are kits which require a tenon, and could certainly use a parting tool.

Yes, agree using a 1/4" standard parting tool with narrow parting tool as second choice for pen turning a good op.

My Sorby diamond parting tool cost me $37.95, my HT, regular parting tool cost less than that. Think paid around $35.00 for the Bedan & sizing tool set. Got my narrow parting tool used or made by a famous turner, for around $20.00 when they first came out. Obliviously these tools were bought many years ago. Turned spindles & bowls long before tried my hand at pen turning.

JMHO, if you really need a parting tool for turning pens, buy quality at the lowest price you can find, or make your own.
 
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