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Help with tools

Eddski

Full Member
Joined
Nov 14, 2019
Posts
54
Location
kent
First Name
Ewan
I recently inherited a lathe from my father. We did some turning when i was younger and thought i would try and "turn" my hand at some pen making.
My question is where is best place to go shopping for mandrels, etc. i am close to Axminster power tools but they feel over priced. Is there a good starter kit out there somewhere?
 

alan morrison

Fellow
Joined
Feb 26, 2019
Posts
2,379
Location
Co. Down N Ireland
First Name
Alan
If you buy a mandrel I would suggest the compression mandrel which, I think, is only supplied by Axminster. Make sure that you get the correct Morse Taper to suit your lathe. You won't get much change from £50.
Starting out is an expensive business but if you inherited the lathe maybe you got the turning tools as well.
Pen turning is a rewarding pastime especially when you get involved in forums like this and ask questions, make friends and learn plenty, but, be warned, it's an addictive pastime.
The important thing is to enjoy the hobby.
Alan
 

Frederick

Registered
Joined
Apr 8, 2018
Posts
871
Location
Chatham
First Name
Frederick
Hi
As everyone else has said. Axminster are not cheap because their service is second to none and, usually, do not sell rubbish. Bear in mind that you don't always need a mandrel as some suppliers use 60 degree bushings which fit a hard drive and live centre. If you do buy a mandrel go for the compression type as previously stated as these take the strain away from the rod itself reducing the risk of bending.


Enjoy,

Cheers
Frederick
 

Eddski

Full Member
Joined
Nov 14, 2019
Posts
54
Location
kent
First Name
Ewan
Thanks for the kind words. When you talk about a compression type mandrel does that forego the need for a mandrel saver
 

Eddski

Full Member
Joined
Nov 14, 2019
Posts
54
Location
kent
First Name
Ewan
personally i am wary of buying some of this type of stuff 2nd hand in case it is bent when i get it
 
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