Pen Turning on a Shop Smith

RobertTaylor · Post by **RobertTaylor** » Fri Jun 13, 2014 8:11 am

While I am not an engineer Shop Smith does have at least one on their staff. Shop Smith used to sell a pen mandrel that is to be held in their drill chuck. Most pens are 5/8" to 3/4" in diameter and I would wonder how much stress would be created while turning. Any thoughts on this?

kenbu · Post by **kenbu** » Fri Jun 13, 2014 8:30 am

Funny you should ask. See this thread. https://forum.shopsmith.com/viewtopic.php?t=14301

Ken

terrydowning · Post by **terrydowning** » Fri Jun 13, 2014 3:49 pm

IMO

The lateral stresses when turning a narrow spindle (less than 1" or so in diameter) are negligible. At least they should be if your tools are sharpened correctly and you're using proper technique. I have used the drill chuck for turning smaller items with no issues what so ever.

kcmoore · Post by **kcmoore** » Wed Jul 02, 2014 11:39 pm

I turn pens on my SS all the time. They gave a mandrel made especially for the 5/8" shaft. Works like a charm!

moggymatt · Post by **moggymatt** » Thu Jul 03, 2014 8:24 am

Nice pen there kcmoore! It would be cool to see how that design is made. Any chance of getting a tutorial next build?

wa2crk · Post by **wa2crk** » Thu Jul 03, 2014 10:51 am

KCMoore
What kind of wood did you use for the bodyof the pen. I made a pen that my wife carries but I don't know what kind of wood it is. I got it in a box of stuff but it closely resembles the wood in your pen.
By the way NICE PEN. I would also like to see how you constructed the inlay.
Bill V

JPG · Post by **JPG** » Thu Jul 03, 2014 12:02 pm

I am guessing the blank manufacturer 'inserted' the inlay, but I could be wrong!;)

Yes it is gorgeous!!!!!

RoseWood comes to mind.