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Pen Mandrel

Jim

Grand Master
Joined
Oct 19, 2011
Posts
15,617
How long do you keep the same mandrel due to it starting to wobble? Or do you try to return it back to been straight, if so how do you do this? :nooidea:

I now use my mandrel with just one half of the pen on it when turning, i only extend this to the pair when sanding and polishing as i find this method the best way of not bending the mandrel. :ciggrin:
 

ataylor

Registered
Joined
Nov 6, 2011
Posts
1,668
Location
UK
First Name
Andy
I have used a number of these mandrels in about 18 months, the 1st one i bent with over tightening the screw, i know it was this as i had to use my plyers to slacken it off when i wanted to remove the turned pens. The 2nd one i bent it really bad when i was actually trying to straighten it whilst in the lathe with a mallet :whistling: Made it worse. Now i do as Jim does and only turn one half of the pen at time and have no issues. :ciggrin:
 

ataylor

Registered
Joined
Nov 6, 2011
Posts
1,668
Location
UK
First Name
Andy
This will be a handy tool when it becomes available in the UK :rolling: The Better Pen Mandrel

Well i'll be damned, just read the site again and it is in the UK, Oxford to be precise. :goesred:
 
Last edited:

The Wood Bucket

Full Member
Joined
Mar 28, 2012
Posts
189
Location
New York USA
I have never seen a mandrel bend from over tightening the nut. It normally bends because of too much pressure from tail stock. If you are only turning one blank at a time you may want to look into bushings that you use between centers. No mandrel required.
 

Jim

Grand Master
Joined
Oct 19, 2011
Posts
15,617
I do actually turn between centers on certain projects WB, but 9 times from 10 i turn one half at a time then sand and finish both together. By doing this i find i get better fittings with the accents ... :ciggrin:
 

Penpal

Grand Master
Joined
May 26, 2013
Posts
25,340
Location
Canberra AUSTRALIA
First Name
Peter
I use one of these Precision Machines from Craft Supplies. as well as different methods the sleeved fit of the nose is accurate and firmish with an adjustable collet on the drive end both quick and convenient.

Kind regards Peter.
 
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