Sorby Spiral tool

[m080762]

Has anyone used the Sorby spiral tool? Is it any good for pens? How about the mini spiral tool? Which would be better for pens? Thank you for your guidance.

Tristan

 

[Gary Beasley]

I have a mini spiral, though I haven't tried it on a pen blank yet. I have observed for small items you need close grained wood to help minimize the tearouts in the spiraling.

 

[PenTurnerfromMaine]

I have used the regular sized tool for "fun" pens I give away when I go into a class and teach/show how a lathe is used and talk about wood. These are the bic pens that can be made for nothing. Pretty good results with the spiraling tool, best on maple.

 

[KenV]

Ed Davidson (YoYoSpin) has done some pens using that gear to cut spirals.

 

[m080762]

Thanks for the input. I got a pretty nice gift certificat for Christmas and I think I will use it to get one. I'll let you know how it goes.
Tristan

 

[randyrls]

Tristan; There is a finger grip type turning tool sold by PSI and others. It is reasonably priced, but the spiraling tool is more flexible.

http://www.pennstateind.com/store/LCMBEAD8.html