Making a pen from scratch

[trapper]

Kevin the answer really is "size does matter" also the order in which superimposed threads are cut I will try and post a selection of pics of the steel and aluminium prototypes I've done....... if there is enough interest I'll do a tutorial for those wishing to spin up some non kit cross refill based pens. This is the cheapest and easiest route to moving on from kits

 

[trapper]

coming soon 11 in total all slimline ie cross refill based mainly made from tool steel brass and aluminium with the odd copper thrown in to arrest attention

 

[Jimjam66]

Kevin, maybe this post of mine a while ago will help with visualising things? Bear in mind that I am showing a brass 'skeleton' to be clothed in wood, if you can with your mind's eye replace the brass with acrylic you will have the detail you need - I think!

 

[kjmc1957]

Hi All

I'm really up for this, I'll source a good tap and die set to meet my needs, I've got the Kleinhenz pen turners bible (2 actually, as I'm patently to stupid to be let loose on an Amazon page by myself) and Kleinhenz also recommends a die carrier so that's on the list as well.

I'm going to buy some ally rod to practice on, I'll show when it's done.

 

[kjmc1957]

Just looked on e-bay...is this the sort of thing I should get?

Soba Set of 4 Tapping Accessories Tap Wrenches - Diestock - Tapping Guide | eBay

Ha! just seen this, check the price.......this one must make the pens for you....including a presentation box!!!!!
RDGTOOLS TAP GUIDE SPRING LOADED 1/2" SHANK MODEL ENGINEERING TOOLS | eBay

 

[Grump]

I'm really up for this

You need therapy.

Just looked on e-bay...is this the sort of thing I should get?

Plenty good enuff for ally bar here

 

[Buckeye]

Just looked on e-bay...is this the sort of thing I should get?

Soba Set of 4 Tapping Accessories Tap Wrenches - Diestock - Tapping Guide | eBay

You will need the 2nd and 4th piece if you are going to tap it on the lathe. For dies you will need something like this

Peter

 

[InkyFingers]

Dies have a range of different outside diameters ie 13/16", 1", 1 5/16", 1 1/2" etc. so you will need to buy the correct diestock for the dies you buy.
Most die sellers state the outside diameter of the die.

Inky

 

[Jimjam66]

You will need the 2nd and 4th piece if you are going to tap it on the lathe. For dies you will need something like this

Peter

I would recommend something like this for dies ... It's what I use. Fits four common outside diameter dies, and I've never come across a die it doesn't fit.

 

[kjmc1957]

Hi Grump

35 years as a psychiatric nurse, presently in a category A high secure prison, believe me after I clock off this is therapy!!!!:wink: