Retirement pen - help me choose please

[IowaTurner]

I'm new to turning but am feeling confident enough to try my hand at making a retirement gift for a staff member who is retiring after almost 30 years of work. I'm not so confident however that I didn't make two pens in case I goofed up one! :biggrin:

I think both pens are satisfactory, but thought I would ask for some assistance in helping choose which one you think is better. All constructive criticism is welcome and appreciated.

So, pen one or pen two? (Sorta sounds like a Dr. Suess book!)

 

[Cwalker935]

Both are very nice. Pen 2 has too much bling for me but that's just a personal preference.

 

[TBCbushings]

Nice job! I personally like pen one....Just my opinion

 

[Jim15]

I like number 1. Both look good though.

 

[mark james]

My choice would be pen 1. Less bling and the grain pattern is a bit more interesting.

But, both are very nice! Good job! (I also often turn 2 pens for 1 purpose. Being able to have a "back-up plan" is a comforting feeling!).

Be well!

 

[mikespenturningz]

I will start by saying that you did a fine job on both of these pens. I however like do like pen 1 better because of the hardware. Again you did a fine job on both pens.

 

[OZturner]

Either Pen would be a Great Retirement Gift.
Both Pens are Excellent,
Beautiful Blanks,
Great Fit and Finish
As only you know the person, I think it gets down to the question.
Are they a Bling or Non-Bling Person?
I am sure that they will be appreciative of either.
Congratulations, Great Gesture.
Brian.

 

[wyone]

First... NEITHER are SATISFACTORY!!! they are BOTH WONDERFUL. You can second guess your skills forever, but those are both wonderful works of art and your coworker will be thrilled with either. I actually sort of like the fancy stuff on pen two, but I like the wood in pen one better. LOL so there you go, BOTH are perfect choices!

 

[rossvh]

I like both but the first one is the one I would want for myself (and I'm near retirement as well :wink.
RossVH

 

[Bob Wemm]

They are both beautiful pens, excellent job on them.
I personally like the first pen best, I think the grain pattern and the hardware go really well together.
So if you decide on Pen No.2 then my address is :-

Cheers,
Bob.

 

[TimS124]

Pen 1 looks nicer (but both are fine pens). I like the simpler fittings. So, give the retiree pen 2 and keep pen 1...

 

[Flynny]

Both are very good but I like #1.