Help with tools

[Eddski]

I recently inherited a lathe from my father. We did some turning when i was younger and thought i would try and "turn" my hand at some pen making.
My question is where is best place to go shopping for mandrels, etc. i am close to Axminster power tools but they feel over priced. Is there a good starter kit out there somewhere?

 

[alan morrison]

If you buy a mandrel I would suggest the compression mandrel which, I think, is only supplied by Axminster. Make sure that you get the correct Morse Taper to suit your lathe. You won't get much change from £50.
Starting out is an expensive business but if you inherited the lathe maybe you got the turning tools as well.
Pen turning is a rewarding pastime especially when you get involved in forums like this and ask questions, make friends and learn plenty, but, be warned, it's an addictive pastime.
The important thing is to enjoy the hobby.
Alan

 

[Bill Mooney]

Axminster have a good customer backup service. What Alan says.

 

[fortress]

Hello Ewan and welcome to the forum. I also agree with what Alan said.

 

[Frederick]

Hi
As everyone else has said. Axminster are not cheap because their service is second to none and, usually, do not sell rubbish. Bear in mind that you don't always need a mandrel as some suppliers use 60 degree bushings which fit a hard drive and live centre. If you do buy a mandrel go for the compression type as previously stated as these take the strain away from the rod itself reducing the risk of bending.


Enjoy,

Cheers
Frederick

 

[Eddski]

Thanks for the kind words. When you talk about a compression type mandrel does that forego the need for a mandrel saver

 

[alan morrison]

The saver is part of the package, and as stated before, check which size Morse taper you have.

 

[Penpal]

I use savers for preference.

Peter.

 

[wm460]

Keep an eye on gumtree and fleapay.

 

[Eddski]

according to the lathe specs it has a 2MT. Seems to be the most common?

 

[Eddski]

personally i am wary of buying some of this type of stuff 2nd hand in case it is bent when i get it

 

[alan morrison]

Yep, that's the one to order