Skews

[jd420214]

Ok I have been learning to use a skew I have seen on a few how to videos people using a basically flat skew with rounded edges can you buy these or is it just a certian grind peopls do there self just wondering.
Thanks
Dave

 

[jttheclockman]

Ok I have been learning to use a skew I have seen on a few how to videos people using a basically flat skew with rounded edges can you buy these or is it just a certian grind peopls do there self just wondering.
Thanks
Dave

Dave you can buy a straight skew or a rounded edge skew. The rounded edge skews are usually signature or named brand skews. These are ground to the profile of the person whose name is on them and their prefference such as Alan Lacer, or Richard Raffin. Go to Crafts Supply USA and see the many different skews for sale.

After awhile you may develop your own grind that you prefer and there is nothing wrong with that.

 

[duncsuss]

Do you mean that the cutting edge is round? If so, JT's answered your question.

Another possible meaning is that the corners of the metal bar have been rounded off, so when you hold it angled on the toolrest it isn't standing on a 90 degree corner.

I ran the corners of mine across the grinding wheel a couple of times to "break the corner", it makes it much easier to slide the tool side to side along the toolrest. (I've been meaning to make one into a "fully rounded" side, I read where it makes rolling a bead easier.)

 

[jttheclockman]

Do you mean that the cutting edge is round? If so, JT's answered your question.

Another possible meaning is that the corners of the metal bar have been rounded off, so when you hold it angled on the toolrest it isn't standing on a 90 degree corner.

I ran the corners of mine across the grinding wheel a couple of times to "break the corner", it makes it much easier to slide the tool side to side along the toolrest. (I've been meaning to make one into a "fully rounded" side, I read where it makes rolling a bead easier.)

Oh I did not read it that way but that is possible what he meant too. I think we got him covered either way. I too just round the edges over to break the sharpness. It doesn't dig into the tool rest then.

 

[jd420214]

Thanks guys John answered my question on this thanks for all the help.
Dave

 

[Skie_M]

Just an additional bit to help everybody out for nice smooth skew cuts ....

Rounding the corners of the skew bar is a good idea to prevent digging into the toolrest and leaving bumps and gouges that will interfere with smoothly running your tool down the toolrest to leave a nice finished surface on the workpiece... It's a good idea to also perform this same function for all your other lathe tools.

Keeping your lathe's toolrest silky smooth is also an excellent idea. Tighten it down without any workpiece in the way and use a large mill file to remove any big blemishes and pits, and work your way up to 1000 grit or better. Apply a little wax for good lubrication and you should be good to go for a while ... re-apply wax every few weeks to keep your tools moving down your toolrest smoothly and prevent any rusting.


This was one of the first things I did to my lathe when I unboxed it, as I noticed the toolrest surface was fairly poor. I also lubed the cam locks with a little wax and the spindle head and motor pulley with some good quality light oil.

 

[jttheclockman]

These are the tool rests that I turned to and love them. Comfortable finger rest and also the stainless steel bar is pretty indestructible. Highly recommend them. Used to use the round bar type but never felt comfortable with them and the stem always got in the way.


http://www.turnrobust.com/tool-rests/