Recommendation for pen turning vendor

rdewinter · Post by **rdewinter** » Fri Jul 17, 2009 1:30 am

I would like a recommendation of a good vendor that distributes supplies for turning pens. I want a vendor that supplies superior pen mechanisms, pen blanks and supplies.

If you have run across such a vendor, please share the vendors name, web site URL and/or telephone number.

Thanking everyone in advance for their recommendation.

Bob
San Diego

mbcabinetmaker · Post by **mbcabinetmaker** » Fri Jul 17, 2009 4:55 am

Bob

You cannot beat Packard Woodworks for service. They ship the same day you order. http://www.packardwoodworks.com/ Also these guys have some very nice kits. http://bereahardwoods.com/pen/supplies/ ... -main.html

hudsonmiller · Post by **hudsonmiller** » Fri Jul 17, 2009 8:54 am

I'd recommend Penn State Industries. I had placed my first order and mis understood some of the items contents. PSI called me and clarified that some of the parts I was ordering were already included in one of the larger sets and I need not order some of the items. Exactly where could you possibly expect now days to encounter that kind of customer support?? Really refreshing.

dicksterp · Post by **dicksterp** » Fri Jul 17, 2009 2:20 pm

Also consider Arizona Silhouette. They handle Berea kits also.

http://www.arizonasilhouette.com/

tom_k/mo · Post by **tom_k/mo** » Fri Jul 17, 2009 2:43 pm

I'll give a 2nd recommendation for Penn State Industries. I've been very satisfied with their pens and blanks. The only thing I can say negative about PSI is their processing/shipping can be a little slow. Normally you can figure 7-10 days from order to delivery.

Another company I've ordered from which I'm real pleased with is Wood-N-Whimsies. They also carry PSI pen kits and their prices are cheaper than PSI's on the same kit. The way they work, for 1-10 kits, they charge the same rate as PSI charges for 11-20 kits. They give a one-volume price break over PSI's price. They also usually ship same day. I've really been pleased with them, EXCEPT... I live in the same state as them, and I have to pay Sales Tax when buying from them which ups the price somewhat. If I need it immediately, I'll order from Wood-N-Whimsies, otherwise I order from PSI.

nuhobby · Post by **nuhobby** » Fri Jul 17, 2009 7:06 pm

I have been very happy with Penn State, and from what I hear several dedicated mail-order places as mentioned above are good.

From my experience the Penn State kits are better than the Rockler or Woodcraft store-brand kits, in terms of precision dimensions, fit/finish, etc.

rkh2 · Post by **rkh2** » Fri Jul 17, 2009 8:03 pm

I will have to toss my recommendations for Penn State as well. They also have the mandrel adapter for the SS. I have always been satisfied with any orders I have received from them.

fjimp · Post by **fjimp** » Fri Jul 17, 2009 8:09 pm

rkh2 wrote:I will have to toss my recommendations for Penn State as well. They also have the mandrel adapter for the SS. I have always been satisfied with any orders I have received from them.

I have tried many suppliers. Most are adequate. Penn State stands above all. I would rate them number 1. fjimp

rdewinter · Post by **rdewinter** » Fri Jul 17, 2009 11:43 pm

Thank you to everyone who shared their experiences, good and bad. It appears that Penn State Industries is the preferred choice. I will certainly give them some business. But to be fair, I will check them all.

Thanks again. This is the sort of input that makes this forum so awesome. I also like that fellow woodworkers share their ideas and opinions with those that ask.

Bob
San Diego

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Recommendation for pen turning vendor

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