Homemade Carbide Handle

[qquake2k]

I bought some 15mm carbide radius cutters from Arizona Carbide a while back, and finally got around to making a handle. I used a 12" length of mild 1/2" square steel. I marked it, drilled it, and tapped it with an 8-32 tap. For the notch, I cut a slot with a hacksaw a little deeper than the cutter is thick. Then used a combination of my 1" belt sander and a coarse file to cut the notch. I had to put a chamfer in the tapped hole with a countersink, so the screw would tighten all the way.

 

[qquake2k]

I still need to turn a wood handle for it, but for now I wrapped the end with friction tape. It actually works! I used it to turn two brittle blanks. It's not exactly precision, but I'm happy with it.

 

[Penpal]

Looks pretty good to me Jim, well done.

Peter

 

[bassethound]

That really looks the business Jim, good stuff..

 

[wm460]

Looks great to me Jim.

 

[Freck Fraser]

Nice one Jim[emoji106][emoji106]

 

[Vic Perrin]

Never mind how it looks Jim. It works well

 

[fortress]

Sweet Jim, looks like you've got all the gear.

 

[Woody]

Just the job I enjoy making my own tools

 

[Louie_Powell]

Looks good! These are fun to make, and its satisfying to use a tool that you made yourself for a fraction of what the commercial version would cost.

One suggestion - I found that putting a heavy chamfer on the bottom of the rod directly below the cutter was helpful. When using the cutter, bottom of the bar can get in the way, and having a chamfer makes it easier to get into tight spaces.

 

[qquake2k]

That's a good idea. I'll have to do that.

 

[woodhacker]

Nice one Jim. That's a job I've got on my list of (things to do)

 

[Bill Mooney]

I made my own set like this Jim then I made a smaller set. It's great to make your own tools.

 

[Dalboy]

There is me looking for a nice turned handle as the title so where is it come on only half the story:wink::wink::wink:

Good looking tool should be great when you do make the handle for it

 

[qquake2k]

It's been a long time since I've turned a spindle. Certainly a lot different than turning a 3/4" pen blank. I used a 2" x 2" piece of poplar. It's rough, but I'm happy with it. I think I'm going to stain it to make it darker, then put an oil finish on it. I still have to figure out a ferrule for the front.

 

[Winemaker]

Nice one well done

 

[woodhacker]

Question- will you be grinding the tool down to make a tang or will you split the handle and router a square down the centre.
Only asking because I have this to do as well and am looking for the best options.

Peter

 

[qquake2k]

No, I'll be grinding it and drilling a hole in the handle. Then I'll epoxy it in.

 

[21William]

The last Ash handle I made had an aluminium insert with a socket set (grub) screw so I can use it with different tools. The next one I'm working on has a collet chuck.

 

[Penpal]

They both seem awfully long for pens I feel very happy using shorter ones for pens, ideal for larger items. With the longer handles you can lose the sensitive touch for many of todays cast blanks you seem to prefer Jim.

Peter