Shopsmith Forums

I am looking to start pen turning. My question is should I get a mandrel with a live center or the mandrel saver? let me know what you guys think, thanks.

I have and use both. I tend to use the mandrel saver the most but I need to have the tailstock cranked all the way out in order to have room to work on that end of the pen blank. My mandrel savers are a little noisy but provide a straighter mandrel. Using a long mandrel with the brass nut can put a bend in the mandrel if tightened up too much. YMMV.
Tim.

If you can only afford one right now, get the live center, it is more versatile.

If you can afford both, that's the way to go.

I have both and use both.