Harbor Freight Turning Tools

[CC]

I just bought a 1000MM 4 speed lathe at a garage sale, never been out of package. I know it will not be something great, but maybe it will be enough to see if I am interested in turning. I have read before that the Harbor Freight turning tool sets are not too bad to begin with.

the sets from their online site the same as what is available in the stores? or is the set in the store different? It's an 80 mile trip to the closest HF store and if I can get the same on line I would rather do that. If they are not the same, then the trip may be worth it. Thanks CC

[bridger]

that is a great beginner set. the mail order set and the in-store set are the same. they're cheap enough that you can get an extra set or two and experiment with different grinds and such.

have fun....

[CC]

Thanks for the information. I just ordered a set of the tools on line from HF. If I find I want to get more into turning, I will invest in a better lathe and tools. But looks like it will be a good starter (learner) set to begin with CC

[bf]

In general, they are ok. But be careful. They are not top quality. I had one of the scrapers catch on me, and the blade snapped off at the handle and cut me. Definitely wear face protection when using these.

Really, if you want my advice, I'd go to a store like Woodcraft and buy a reasonably priced guage and learn how to use that. You can do a lot with only a guage. Later, you can buy a skew or a scraper.

You can buy a decent gauge for about the price of the HF starter kit if I recall (around $50).. and then you can keep it forever. And you don't have to worry about the poor quality tools snapping on you while you turn.

[CC]

I will look there too. There is a Woodcraft store a little further away than the HF store. I will get over there and look at their tools. I also ordered a face shield at the same time as the turning tools. I felt that would be a must item when turning. CC

[mac davis]

Penn State has some good prices on what I consider medium grade tools... I have their bowl chisel set and their scraper set and love 'em..

Mac

03 Tahoe Widelite 26GT Travel Trailer replaced 1958 Hilite tent trailer 99 Dodge Ram QQ 2wd - 5.9L, auto, 3:55 gears

[CC]

Thanks for the link Mac CC

[fredfighter]

My understanding is that the turning chisels made under the Buck Brother's name are NOT made by the same people who make the crappy Buch Brothers planes.

Moreover, they are good quality and available at Home Despot.