I just purchased a Jet Mini lathe so I can turn my own grips (and eventually turn reel seats). However, I'm curious to hear how others have setup the mandrel when turning cork. I've purchased a 3-jaw self-centering chuck and I'll be turning the cork on some type of mandrel rather than on the blank. First of all, what do you recommend to use for the mandrel (a threaded rod or otherwise)? I don't
Forum: rodboard

I'm becoming interested in purchasing a small metal working lathe in order to pruduce aluminum and/or but caps and trim rings. I know Grizzly has one for $500. I've serched @#$%& but it's usually a sellers market and I don't have the experience to even know what to ask the seller. Any suggestions as to brands, models, or features to look for or stay away from would be appreciated.
Forum: rodboard

I've been asked what I want for Christmas. The thought of a lathe has been in my mind lately. Please feel free to chime in with your opinions on these questions; is it cheaper to turn your own cork grips and reel seat inserts or just buy them? Can a Renzetti rod lathe/ wrapper do these task reasonably well? By the way I give respect to Renzetti proucts and thier quality seeing that I own a travel
Forum: rodboard

Earlier last week there was a discussion on lathes here at rodbuilding.org. Those of you who live near the Piedmont Triad area of NC have an opportunity, today only, to get a nice mini wood lathe for very little money. At the Winston-Salem fairgrounds, in the education building, a woodworking show is underway until later this afternoon. I attended yesterday and there were dozens of the Jet mi
Forum: rodboard

I am going to buy a small wood lathe just to use for turning my grips and some hosels and buttcaps. Maybe a reel insert or two. I am looking at the mini and midi models from Jet, Delta, Ryobi, Woodfast, etc. Could those of you who have any experience with any of these please fill me in on any pros or cons? There may be other models of lathes I am not aware of. I will gladly spend up to about
Forum: rodboard

Hey Guys, Jet has modified their JML 1014 mini lathe to accept a bed extension much like the new Delta Midi Lathe. Unfortunately those of us with the older JML 1014mini lathe arent able to take advantage of this. However I did see that Penn State Industries is clearancing out their stock of the old style lathes for $299.00. This is a great lathe, I have not only turned reel se
Forum: rodboard

I just purchased a Delta lathe after years of working with an old drill for my handle turning. I've been looking for a good quality self centering chuck (preferably with a 1" drive, 8 thread). Delta wants an arm and a leg for theirs. If anyone has any recommendations for manufacturers and / or sources, sure would appreciate it. thanks, richard
Forum: rodboard

I've just finished turning my first reelseat. I started with 1.5" X 1.5" Walnut blank and went after it with a 1/2" gouge. It took about three hours just to get it turned down to the correct diameter. Is this the normal amout of time for a project like this. Does anyone have any tips for speeding up the process. Thanks, Mike Jansson
Forum: rodboard