Some essentials I found were things like a shop vac, calipers (all sizes), when I got tools I got them unhandled cause I could make my own handles... I made my own carbide too .. Just ordered steel and tips and did the rest. If you don't have a drill press I think a Jacobs chuck is essential. I know you can turn without a chuck but I found it difficult and consider it essential some may disagree. List of essentials would vary depending on what you turn... Pens, bowls, bottle stoppers, etc...
