Custom Made Turning Tools
I design and build custom turning tools. These tools are the result of my searching for a better tool and not finding what I wanted. So, about 25 years ago I built my first tool and started turning with it. The results were great and I continued using it over the years. Then, about 9 years ago I began doing demonstrations of my segmented turning techniques. Of course, I used the tools that I have been using for many years. I was surprised when during the Q&A period I began getting many questions about the tools. When asked where I got the tool, I simply said that I had made it. Then I received requests to make one for them. It had been years since I had made the tools so I had to think about how I would make it now. Several things came to mind to improve them, and the tools you see now are the results of many subtle changes on the original design. The segmented handles add a striking design element to them and are much fun to do. I've also designed in a means to hold the Allen wrench in the handle so that you always know where to find it when you want to change or sharpen the bit.
The tool body is made of 4140 chrome-molly steel, which is very tough and durable. It is 9" long from the handle to the end, and is inserted into the handle 3" deep. It is held in the handle by high strength epoxy. The tool body holds a cobalt-steel cutting bit that is sharpened at both ends to allow you to simply turn the bit around when one end gets dull and keep turning. Since I machine all of the parts myself I can customize this tool any way you may need for your special turning style.
The two tools above show a couple of different designs possible with the segmented handles. I can make the handles to fit any person's hand, which is one of the things people like as most commercial tool handles are all of one generic size. If you like a particularly large or small diameter you can let me know and I can make it to fit. As you can see I also like playing with the large end, doing different shapes and transitions to bring out the best in the woods I've assembled. I also construct tools with handles that are not segmented. Some photos of those will be added later.
Unfortunately, all tools shown here are already sold. If you're interested in one they are sold in the Woodcraft stores in Sterling Heights and Saginaw, Michigan. If you're not local to these Woodcraft stores I can sell you one with a plain handle, not a segmented one, for $110, which includes shipping to U.S. addresses. Contact me if you are not in the U.S. for shipping costs. Just email me if you'd like to purchase one of these tools. Custom tools and ones with segmented handles are $120 and up, depending on how elaborate the handle is. I can accept on-line payments through PayPal or I'll take money orders, checks or cash. I also sell the bits and am developing larger and smaller tools for special uses. Click the "Tool Hardware" tab at the bottom of the page to find out about accessories available for these tools.
