Newbie and Mandrel Sizes - Advice Please

[sulla]

I'm new to penturning. I bought an Evolution mandrel and a basic 7mm pen kit from Turners Retreat for my DML320. I'm quite pleased with the result but turning to a consistent diameter can test the skills!
The issue is this, I then purchased a Slimline Twist Pen kit from Axminster with the required bushings. Out of the three bushings only one slid on to the mandrel; the other two need some fettling/broaching/filing (depending on your upbringing) to fit. Not a great amount but significant.
Is this usual?

 

[flexi]

It's not the first time.... I bought a mandrel years ago and it's baggy in my Axminster saver..... There can be slight discrepancies

 

[Phil Dart]

Hello Ken - welcome to the forum

Unfortunately, there is no standard for the diameter of a mandrel shaft, and no standard for the hole through the middle of bushes. It's a subject that gets me on my soapbox not infrequently.

It would be nice to think though that the hole would be consistent throughout a set of bushes! We can put astronauts on the moon, so surely it can't be beyond the wit of man to bore the same size hole through 3 pieces of metal.

 

[sulla]

Thanks; It's as I thought.
My fear was I had somehow bought a 'non standard' make of mandrel.

I shall sharpen the files and turn on!