Pen Mandrel material?

[geep]

What are off the shelf mandrels made from? Drill rod or something less precise? Has any one made mandrels from drill rod and is there any benefit to them?

 

[its_virgil]

I make all of my mandrels using O2 drill rod and the size is letter D. I have a center drill that puts the 60 degree dimple on the end for my live center. I make them for several reasons. One is I can make them any length I need. Another is I can make them whenever I need a new one and I don't have to wait until one is ordered and shipped and delivered. Another benefit is the cost. They are not difficult to make.
Do a good turn daily!
Don

What are off the shelf mandrels made from? Drill rod or something less precise? Has any one made mandrels from drill rod and is there any benefit to them?

 

[arioux]

Specially if you have the mandrel saver, you don't need a 60 degre dimple or any threading. Just the rod.