Hello, this will be my first post, besides the introduction. Hello all
So I'm getting ready to pull the trigger on a new Lathe. I've decided on a Laguna Revo 1216. Fits the space I have perfectly, with room for bed extensions and turning off the side for larger platters. I plan on starting off with smaller projects such as pens, bottle stoppers, rings, and other smaller trinket like projects. However, my real interest really is pots, bowls with lids, shop mallots, and live edge bowls.
I've decided that I'm going to go with carbide tools first. I have every intention of purchasing gouges and traditional tool steal tools down the road, but I want to start off with a carbide set first. I don't have the upfront cost of a grinder and sharpening system. I can use my diamond plates to resharpen the carbide blades to gain a little more life out of them when needed.
So here is my question. Does it really make sense to buy the mini size tools vs the full size tools? I'm sure that I could use the full size for all projects, but what are the advantages of having mini, mid, and full size lathe tools? Does anyone have all three and use them regular for your projects? Does anyone only use mid or full size and would never consider having multiple sizes?
I know some will say ever job has the right tool. So I would assume there's a reason there are mini/pen sized turning tools. You know, besides profit. But Can I get away with a single size for small and reasonably larger projects. I understand the principle of the longer handle giving me more control of the tool and the ability to lock it into my hip for support.
I've also been looking at "Simple Woodturning Tools" for the turning tools brand. The Rockler mini set has a good sale price right now, but their full size set is on average price with other brands like woodpecker, simple woodturning, carters, etc. I have woodpecker rules, squares, and other tools that I love.
So I'm getting ready to pull the trigger on a new Lathe. I've decided on a Laguna Revo 1216. Fits the space I have perfectly, with room for bed extensions and turning off the side for larger platters. I plan on starting off with smaller projects such as pens, bottle stoppers, rings, and other smaller trinket like projects. However, my real interest really is pots, bowls with lids, shop mallots, and live edge bowls.
I've decided that I'm going to go with carbide tools first. I have every intention of purchasing gouges and traditional tool steal tools down the road, but I want to start off with a carbide set first. I don't have the upfront cost of a grinder and sharpening system. I can use my diamond plates to resharpen the carbide blades to gain a little more life out of them when needed.
So here is my question. Does it really make sense to buy the mini size tools vs the full size tools? I'm sure that I could use the full size for all projects, but what are the advantages of having mini, mid, and full size lathe tools? Does anyone have all three and use them regular for your projects? Does anyone only use mid or full size and would never consider having multiple sizes?
I know some will say ever job has the right tool. So I would assume there's a reason there are mini/pen sized turning tools. You know, besides profit. But Can I get away with a single size for small and reasonably larger projects. I understand the principle of the longer handle giving me more control of the tool and the ability to lock it into my hip for support.
I've also been looking at "Simple Woodturning Tools" for the turning tools brand. The Rockler mini set has a good sale price right now, but their full size set is on average price with other brands like woodpecker, simple woodturning, carters, etc. I have woodpecker rules, squares, and other tools that I love.