Shopsmith Forums

In the forums, I see many beautiful pens made on the Shopsmith. Do you use a pen turning set for these? Or, are the standard Shopsmith lathe chisels "good enough"? Thanks, Jim

1957jimp wrote:In the forums, I see many beautiful pens made on the Shopsmith. Do you use a pen turning set for these? Or, are the standard Shopsmith lathe chisels "good enough"? Thanks, Jim

Standard chisels are good enough. The pen type ones are nice because they are smaller and easier to handle (since you don't need the leverage or heft on such a small workpiece), but thats about it. Though doing tiny coves can be impossible with a giant gouge

I use many different types and brand names of chisels. For most pen turning the standard Shopsmith chisels are fine. For unusual or fine cuts smaller chisels are a good idea. One thing is a must, a dull chisel destroy every project they get near. Sharp chisels on the other hand do a great job and are fun to use. Good luck on becoming hooked on pen turning. Jim

I use the standard Shopsmith chisels. They work just fine for me.

I use standard size chisels, either SS or an older set of Millers Falls that I got at a yard sale. I tried the smaller pen turning chisels but I did not care for them. I also use a midi detailer from Easy Wood Tools on acrylic blanks but I find that the EWT tool can be very aggressive and a delicate touch is required.
I find that the longer chisels afford a greater degree of control for me.
Bill V

I have the standard set, ans as yet unidentified really old set (standard size) and the wood turning mini set http://www.shopsmith.com/ownersite/catalog/l_woodturningminitoolset.htm. In general I prefer the standard size tools, but I do use the mini set for detail work that a large chisel just won't do well.

I use the three piece set from Shopsmith. I liked the first set so much I purchased a second set.I find them easier to control when making pen and pencil sets.

BPR

Correct me if I am wrong, but when fjimp said use Sharp chisels, I don't believe he was talking about a brand, but a sharpened chisel. Dull chisels tear the material. This is especially true with turning Corian.

It seems the post I am replying to has disappeared. There was a request for a picture of Sharp Chisels. (the quote link didn't work either).

I use the standard set of five Shopsmith chisels... Although one of Cap'n Eddies carbide turning tools is in the mail.

I'll second the comment about keeping them sharp because dull chisels will destroy anything they touch.

Yes indeed I was referring to the condition of the chisels. Many of us favor differing brand names or styles of chisels. The one thing that makes the biggest difference is keeping which ever tool you prefer "EXTREMELY SHARP!" A dull tool can not only destroy a fine block of wood but do grave injury to ones body and or surroundings. I apologize if my remarks were or are confusing. Jim