Originally Posted by Corey Hallagan
Ok Bob, this is from a beginner that has done only spindle turning. I have done no bowl spinning. I have the 6 piece set of tools that I received from you and a set of Midi sized HSS chisels which include a 3/8 inch spindle gouge, 1/2 oval skew and 1/8 parting tool.
I have found out that I like the long handled tools, even for pen turning. For me I get more control. The large set has a 1 inch oval skew, 3/8 spindle gouge, 7/8 inch roughing gouge, 3/8 bowl gouge, 3/4 inch round scraper. Never used the scraper or bowl gouge yet as I haven't done that kind of turning.
I find even for the little pen blanks, I like to use the 7/8 roughing gouge until it get round, then I switch to the 3/8 gouge. I like the oval skews much better than the straight skew... at least for bead work, seems easier. I like the 1 inch that came in the large set, the 1/2 oval in the pen set is ok, but not long enough handle, so I ordred a 3/4 inch oval skew, right in the middle but haven't received it. Also ordered a 1/2 inch spindle gouge. I guess overall I tend to use the large ones, even for small stuff. I expect this will continue to evolve.
Corey