Tool size used on mini lathe

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Imported poll question missed, please edit

  • Full Size Tools

    Votes: 0 0.0%

  • Midi Size Tools (Pen Turning)

    Votes: 0 0.0%

  • Miniature Size Tools

    Votes: 0 0.0%

  • Combination of all of the above

    Votes: 0 0.0%
  • Total voters
    0
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bnoles

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Curious to see what size turning tools are mostly used by mini lathe users. There appear to be 3 sizes on the market these days. Full size, midi size (Sorby or Pen Turning) and miniature size.

Just for kicks, which ones do you use on your mini lathe the most. I know that many times it depends on the project, but which size is most</u> used?
 
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I have been using a 1" Glaser Spindle Gouge with a lead shot filled aluminum handle and also use a 1.25" roughing gouge a lot. A heavier tool absorbs a LOT more vibrations moving around a lot less and will tire you out a lot less as well. This may not be as important with pens as bowls and hollowforms but it still is a good principle. That being said it pays to have the detail oriented tools around as well so ultimately I use all of the above.
 
I ahd to vote combinaion.
I buy teh cheapest ones I can find and cut the handles down to a more resonable length.Usually HF.
I don't limit myself to "turning chisels" only, anything I can grind an edge on and can hold is put into use. I modify carbon steel carving tools to turn also.
Bear in mind I make only pens, but I see no need for a big honking chisel with a mile long handle that keeps me farther away from what I am working on.
The old eyes aren't getting any better.Closer is definately better.
 
I have a set of "pen turning" chisels that came with my starter kit, but use them rarely. If had larger ones ground to the same deatil, I'd use them instead. I like the added weight and the longer handles give me greater stability.
 
I don't use a mini-lathe so didn't respond to poll. But it begs the question: why would it make a difference? Full size lathe with small work or mini lathe with same size work. The tool choice would still be the same for any given person. I use tools from 1/2" to 1 1/4" for pens on a full sized lathe.
 
Originally posted by Rifleman1776
<br />I don't use a mini-lathe so didn't respond to poll. But it begs the question: why would it make a difference? Full size lathe with small work or mini lathe with same size work. The tool choice would still be the same for any given person. I use tools from 1/2" to 1 1/4" for pens on a full sized lathe.
Click to expand...

You are right about that. I actually read it as what size pens do you use to 'turn pens' rather than on a particular sized lathe. It sometimes seems strange using a tool that is as long as my arm to turn a pen regardless of the lathe I am using but you can't beat the control it gives you.
 
Originally posted by ctEaglesc
<br />With those HONKER handles you have to stand a mile away from the lathe with, I wouldn't either.[^]
Click to expand...

Nope...FYI, you don't need to hold the end of the handle [;)]

In my case, I actually hold it almost by the tang. I just use the long handle as stabilizer...most of the time it is resting under my elbow which is also next to my body. Learned that while making bowls and it really is a good practice.
 
For bowls maybe.
Perhaps because I use a diamond stone and "hone" my tools I don't need the leverage that you long handle guys do.[:D]
FOr example the final "Grit" on the staone is 800.
I imagine the edge I have is much finer.
This is conjuecture on my part but like i said I Don't require the leverage you are speaking of.
 
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