Smallest Capable Lathe

[Inky.Fingers]

I am in!

 

Now, where do I start? A lathe.

 

Which is the smallest lathe that is capable of handling a pen job? Need to include gears for threading.

 

So how much are we talking just to get the basics? (List of gears/machines to get.)

 

No CNC -- going all Medieval.

[Driften]

Small wood lathes make nice pens, but can't do threading. For that you will need a metal lathe which tend to be much larger. Maybe look at Taig or Sherline. Both are small lathes that can do threads and are small.

[Inky.Fingers]

Thank you. Will look into it.

[darrin1200]

I have heard the HiTorque lathes, from Little Machine Shop, getting great reviews. They also have package deals on basiic tooling.

 

http://littlemachineshop.com/products/product_category.php?category=1271799306

[richardandtracy]

Can I advise that you take a quick look at this thread:https://www.fountainpennetwork.com/forum/topic/272484-help-for-those-wanting-to-start-pen-turning/

I have been meaning to add to it for ages, but time never seems available. Can anyone help me there?

 

Regards,

 

Richard

[Pierre---]

Most of the kitless pens are made with taps ans dies, very often on a wood lathe, gears for threading are by no means a necessity. A metal lathe is very clumsy at making curves, you'll end up with cylindrical pens.

 

I would say starting by buying a tool before learning how to use it or just seeing what it is able to do, is the best way to buy the wrong one. Why not giving a try one afternoon at a turner's workshop, using a lathe or even - let's go crazy! - a gouge?

Edited April 26, 2017 by Pierre---

[Inky.Fingers]

Thanks Richard. It is a good start. I will need to do more research it seems.

 

Perhaps Pierre have a point too. Before investing...Try it out first.

 

Anyone in California bay area?

[More4dan]

A 7" x 10" mini metal lathe from Harbor Freight (~$400) and is about the minimum size for pens and is what I use. Sometimes drilling on the lathe can be a challenge with larger bits, not enough length. A 7 x 14 would be better. A rest can be added to allow turning like a wood lathe for adding curves and tapers. A wood lathe can be used with taps and dies for making pens, but I do like the precision of the metal lathe and the ability to make metal components for my pens. I do use taps and dies for most of my threading utilizing guides to keep them straight. Check out another forum dedicated to pen making, www.penturners.org where you can find great advice and tutorials.