Good morning everyone. Although I have been doing hobby woodwork most of my life (I'm 71) this is my first adventure into turning. I live in Auburn, AL, work at the University, and I'm retired military.
I have been making cutting boards and various other items (some using my CNC router) but have not had the ability to go "round". I would like to start with things like pens, items with turned handles, candle holders, etc. I don't anticipate doing large bowls until I have some experience. I have a LOT to learn and look forward to advice from you experienced members. After a lot of research, and a lot of going back and forth, I have decided to get the Laguna REVO 12/16, with the stand, mobility kit, and bed extension. I hope that will be a good choice for a newbe.
One thing I've discovered is just as with so many other woodworking tools, there is a bewildering variety of accessories - all promising to be just what the turner needs (LOL). I would welcome any advice on all the accessories to get: for example the Axminster AK100 seems to get high praises - is it a good choice for a new turner and for this machine? Are there competitors that might be as good or nearly as good but lower price? What about the turning tools? Acme Tools offers a nice 6 piece HSS set from Penn State. Is this a good starter set - not too expensive, but not junk either? Or should I bite the bullet and go ahead and get carbide tools? Is anyone using the Ultra-Sheer pen mandrel - if so what is you advice? If there are other tools that I should be considering, please let me know.
I'm looking forward to learning from this forum.
Glynn
I have been making cutting boards and various other items (some using my CNC router) but have not had the ability to go "round". I would like to start with things like pens, items with turned handles, candle holders, etc. I don't anticipate doing large bowls until I have some experience. I have a LOT to learn and look forward to advice from you experienced members. After a lot of research, and a lot of going back and forth, I have decided to get the Laguna REVO 12/16, with the stand, mobility kit, and bed extension. I hope that will be a good choice for a newbe.
One thing I've discovered is just as with so many other woodworking tools, there is a bewildering variety of accessories - all promising to be just what the turner needs (LOL). I would welcome any advice on all the accessories to get: for example the Axminster AK100 seems to get high praises - is it a good choice for a new turner and for this machine? Are there competitors that might be as good or nearly as good but lower price? What about the turning tools? Acme Tools offers a nice 6 piece HSS set from Penn State. Is this a good starter set - not too expensive, but not junk either? Or should I bite the bullet and go ahead and get carbide tools? Is anyone using the Ultra-Sheer pen mandrel - if so what is you advice? If there are other tools that I should be considering, please let me know.
I'm looking forward to learning from this forum.
Glynn