For most stuff, a well sharpened HSS tool gives the best results.
However, there's a lot to be said for the convenience of a pre-ground
carbide tool. HF sells a small insert style set of holders, the
inserts are appreciably nicer than the cheap, brazed shank tools.
The 3-jaw is mostly for round/hexagonal pieces. It's possible to
hold squares in it, but, they're off-center & not very secure. A 4-
jaw can hold just about anything to whatever degree of accuracy
you've got the patience to set it to. There are some 4" body ones
that are more capable than the 3" body sold by HF, Grizzly, etc.
The classic lathe book is, "How to run a lathe" by the Southbend
Lathe co. Lindsay books has it & lots more reprints of old books.
Roy
--- In 7x12minilathe@..., "kf4zgz <kf4zgz@n...>"
<kf4zgz@n...> wrote:
Hi gang!
I've been playing,er, working with the lathe and learning a
lot....now fer some info.
1- What type of tool is best for what job?
considerations: cost, main material is plastic (PVC), some metal
involved to keep if interesting.
is there a general purpose tool for most use?
HSS or carbide....pre-made or grind my own?
2-Is there a way to hold square or odd pieces in a 3-jaw chuck?
3- Is there a good book to learn these things from...i.e. 'Metal
Lathes for dummies"
4- Suggestion for a good 1st time real project, thats easy!
Thanks , Matt
