Shopsmith Forums

fredsheldon wrote:How about those days you misplace your key or if you are like me forget where you put it down last My only concern is slipping of the drill bit in the chuck. I have issues all the time with my keyless drill where the drill bit slips and I can't seem to be able to tighten it enough.

I guess if I had that problem, a spare chuck key or two would be a lot cheaper option to resolve things than a $130 keyless chuck. I wondered about slippage as well - my familiarity with keyless chucks is limited to cordless drills...the makita I originally had slipped all the time and it often was very difficult to open/close the chuck. The DeWalt I now have has been pretty flawless in terms of use, so I presume the technology has improved over the past 10+ years. I'd like to assume that this SS chuck would not have any such issues but I agree if I was inclined to shell out that kind of $$ that I'd like to see a review or three first to make sure I'm getting what I pay for.

They are used all over machine shops to eliminate the chance of that pesky key being left in the chuck when the press is turned on - big ouch can result.

I have a Grizzly in my Delta drill press and have had for several years. A slight twist between the upper collar and the chuck has always tightened the bit and I have not had any slips, even with large Forstner bits.

That said, I agree with others that one is not needed in my SS. But I think the price is reasonable for a high quality chuck: one that won't slip in use.

Forrest

forrestb wrote:But I think the price is reasonable for a high quality chuck: one that won't slip in use.

I think this is a good point - the chuck appears to be well machined and good quality and probably is worth the price, so I guess for me it's not a matter of feeling they are charging too much but rather a question of whether the expense (irregardless of quality) is worth the convenience and in my case, no - there's tons of other stuff on the SS website that would be on my want list before the keyless chuck. I just have a feeling the order quantity will be less that hoped for by SS and I hate to see them come up with a new accessory and not see if be very popular, if for no other reason than I want them to be successful and profitable as a company.

I would use it if I had it so if anyone wants to send me one rest assured it won't go to waste. However, I can find many items in the Shopsmith catalog that I will buy before I buy the chuck.

There was a good safety point made, though, by Forrest. Don't leave the key in the chuck. It can become a hazardous projectile if you do. Obviously not a problem with the keyless version and a good reason why they are popular in machine shops (insurance don't you know.

Looks suspiciously like this $45 chuck, other than the morse taper adapter.

http://www.woodcraft.com/product/200397 ... chuck.aspx

algale wrote:Looks suspiciously like this $45 chuck, other than the morse taper adapter.

http://www.woodcraft.com/product/200397 ... chuck.aspx

http://www.ebay.com/itm/SHARS-5-8-PREMI ... 4d08040711

or that one, again - with the appropriate adapter needed.

Basically, the big deal is the JT3 (which seems to be the standard for these chucks) to 5/8" adapter

That does look suspiciously like the Chinese made for anyone brand chuck. There are great reasons for expensive chucks such as running true, accuracy into the .0005 range etc. metalworking trends away from keyless because it can self tighten when in a jam. I've not had that close a tolerance ever in woodworking but I do love the feel of tools made to that close a tolerance, but I can't afford them even for metalworking.

The idea of a key-less chuck is especially intriguing, especially given the potential of limited capability in one arm, post surgery. Having retired a few months ago I must confess a major case of sticker shock with this item. I refuse to say I will never buy one. I would feel more comfortable should Shopsmith make us aware of salient points such as these being made in America, quality related statistics and some other points related to why these will make such a great buy for us. I would also be more comfortable with reports from other users as to the benefits of use, rationale of price and quality. Jim

[quote="fredsheldon"]How about those days you misplace your key or if you are like me forget where you put it down last

That's why I have two keys: one in the apron and one on my accessory shelf. I, too, am concerned about hand strength. At least I feel more secure being able to use a key to tighten down the bit.

BPR

I've never misplaced my key, now have I left it in the chuck. I have snap riveted to the top of my headstock. The key is attached to a rubber chuck key holder and has the mating snap on it.

Basically the key snaps to the top of the headstock. Easy on...easy off.

Wish I could post pictures with my tablet.

We need a shopsmith android app.

Thanks

Geo