Posted by:
roger wilson
(---.hsd1.mn.comcast.net)
Roger,
I just use threaded hardware store rod. For all of the handles that I have turned, this rod has worked very well for me.
I make sure to put a 60 degree centering hole on the end of any rod that I use in the lathe. The hole keeps the rod centered and easy to use on the lathe.
Whenever using a mandrel or threaded rod on the lathe, I always use the largest size rod that is consistent with the size of the hole in the handle. The larger the rod, and the larger the hole in the blank, the stiffer the rod will be for use on the lathe.
If you don't have a set of 60 degree centering bits, buy a package. Then, using your lathe, with the threaded rod pushed all of the way through the chuck, with the centering bit on a jacobs chuck installed in the tail stock, drill a centering hole in the center of each end of any rod that you use on the lathe. Simple, easy and makes an excellent tool for use with the lathe.
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