Cork handled tools

[Bigblackdog]

On the ashley iles stand at Newark there were a few tools with cork handles and a notice saying "pick me up". So I did.

They felt very nice to the touch, and I think that if I re handle some, I will certainly give it a try. I would imagine that the easiest way would be to have a wooden handle and then fit some rings of cork to that, although the AI ones had a full tang going right through the handle.

Did anybody else pick them up and try them for feel?

 

[Lons]

I've never seen them but can't see any reason why they can't be built up construction like fishing rod handles

 

[Penpal]

Rod handles take the punishment why not


All my files small to large have Golf Ball handles.

Peter.

 

[Jim]

Damn, i never saw them Mark .. I did buy a 1/4 parting tool, he didn't have an handled one but said pay an extra £1.50 and i will post one out to you .. So of course i did do that .. Even though i didn't look at the price of the handles i sort of guessed with postage that this price was good ..

 

[Vic Perrin]

Done a few fishing rods in my time with cork handles but never thought about using them on tool handles

Vic

 

[chas_41_uk]

I spotted them, along the back of the Ashley Iles stand. They don't feel as "cold" as hard wood and give a (very) slightly cushioned feel to the handle.
In some cases this would be good, but on the handle of a tool where the other end is being used on a piece of wood spinning in excess of 2000 rpm I would prefer to be able to feel everything immediately not with even the slightest delay I can imagine cork might give

 

[Bigblackdog]

There were only 3 tools with it but cork sanding blocks are cheap enough as a source of cork. Would cork need something inside it- the tang or a timber handle- I presume that it wouldn't be strong enough of it was a 6" handle and a 2" tang?

I treated myself to a miniature skew and a nice thin parting tool. I was toying with the miniature set from AI but there were too many in there that I don't need to make it worthwhile.

 

[paulm]

I've seen them at other shows but for some reason didn't fancy it. I don't know why but it just didn't suit me and I think that the cork would get broken up as I chuck the chisels on the bench... only my opinion mind.

 

[Penpal]

Yes Cork needs a centre piece for sure.

Peter.

 

[wm460]

Interesting never heard of cork handles before.

 

[Bill Mooney]

Below is a write up on the cork handled tools
Ashley Iles woodturning tools

The Reardon Set
Stumpy, DStumpy, dumpy and skinny milliny - spindle gouge, skew and parting tool dumpy and Skinny Milliney

This set, designed by the late Phil Reardon, comprises three tools: a beading tool, a spindle gouge, and a parting tool.

These are all made from heavy round bar that runs all the way through cork handles giving the tools a soft, warm, comfortable feel.

Stumpy - slightly heavier and deeper than normal 1/2 in (12mm) spindle gouge

Dumpy - 3/8 in (9 mm) square skew

Skinny Milinny - 3/16 in (4.5 mm) Parting tool

 

[bassethound]

Thanks Bill, Glad i ain't got to read that lot out loud when Pi$$ed!