shopsmith lathe

3624jeffrey · Post by **3624jeffrey** » Tue Oct 14, 2014 10:12 am

Anyone had any experience with pen making on the lathe on a 520 model

terrydowning · Post by **terrydowning** » Tue Oct 14, 2014 5:51 pm

No noticeable difference between Mark V models when in lathe mode.

The Mark V is a serviceable lathe and can be made to make pens.

I've made hundreds. What do you want to know?

[ATTACH]26482[/ATTACH]
[ATTACH]26483[/ATTACH]
[ATTACH]26484[/ATTACH]

Put this phrase in google "pen making site:shopsmith.net"

moggymatt · Post by **moggymatt** » Tue Oct 14, 2014 10:14 pm

Nice pens.

rjent · Post by **rjent** » Tue Oct 14, 2014 11:47 pm

terrydowning wrote:No noticeable difference between Mark V models when in lathe mode.

The Mark V is a serviceable lathe and can be made to make pens.

I've made hundreds. What do you want to know?

[ATTACH]26482[/ATTACH]
[ATTACH]26483[/ATTACH]
[ATTACH]26484[/ATTACH]

Put this phrase in google "pen making site:shopsmith.net"

Love the treble clef!

Nice pens!

mountainbreeze · Post by **mountainbreeze** » Wed Oct 15, 2014 8:48 am

Terry / everyone,

Since you asked, what I'd like to know is two things. First, given that I have a SS with the base set of tools that came with it, what is the minimum set of additional tools required (cutting tools, chucks, mandrels, etc.) for pen turning? And second, what set of tools is desirable if I decide I like it and want to do a lot more of it?

moggymatt · Post by **moggymatt** » Wed Oct 15, 2014 10:09 am

mountainbreeze wrote:Terry / everyone,

Since you asked, what I'd like to know is two things. First, given that I have a SS with the base set of tools that came with it, what is the minimum set of additional tools required (cutting tools, chucks, mandrels, etc.) for pen turning? And second, what set of tools is desirable if I decide I like it and want to do a lot more of it?

Theres only a few additional items really needed besides the mandrel. I picked mine up from Penn industries. Visit their site to get a good idea of all the accessories. Different pen blanks use different drill sizes so if you pick up a 10mm kit you'll need a 10mm drill bit. Some starter kits include the bit. After that all that is needed is a live center with a good point that fits the end of the mandrel, bowl gouge,sand paper and finish.

terrydowning · Post by **terrydowning** » Wed Oct 15, 2014 11:20 am

mountainbreeze wrote:Terry / everyone,

Since you asked, what I'd like to know is two things. First, given that I have a SS with the base set of tools that came with it, what is the minimum set of additional tools required (cutting tools, chucks, mandrels, etc.) for pen turning? And second, what set of tools is desirable if I decide I like it and want to do a lot more of it?

Here is a link to a thread that covers my main process.

http://shopsmith.net/forums/showthread.htm?t=11705

I also use the Penn State Pen mandrel that attaches directly to the drive shaft for slim line and mandrel turning.

If you have a drill chuck or the 1/4" router chuck can purchase just a mandrel to save a few bucks.

The trick with a mandrel is to use the correct live center.
I recommend either a Mandrel saver or a decent 60 degree live center. The standard live center from SS will not seat properly on the end of the mandrel and you can experience out of round issues.

Sharp tools, light cuts and an eye towards precision are really what is required.

As for cutting tools, I prefer a sharp 1" skew with a radius ground on to the edge called a Lacer grind. Google Alan Lacer to see what I mean. I have re-ground 2 of my skews with this profile and I love it. You have to master free hand sharpening for this though.

Lots of people like the carbide scrapers (I don't have one so I can't speak to their efficacy.)

Let em know if you have other questions.