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Robert Larson
turning tools are manufactured to the
highest quality. A wide variety of tools are available that will allow the
best possible selection for the woodturner.
The Blades
The most
important issue in a well-designed turning tool is the quality of the
blade. All Robert
Larson blades are
manufactured to precise specifications. The steel is M2 molybdenum based
high-speed steel, which is machined from the solid in most cases. A few
tools are entirely forged into shape. Next the tool is heat treated, being
hardened and tempered to sixty-two degrees on the Rockwell "C" scale. By
no means is this the end of the manufacturing process as the blades are
next machine ground and, in a number of cases, hand ground as well. The
cutting edge is carefully ground, with this being followed by hand glazing
and polishing of the tool surface. Polishing is linear to the blade
length, unlike other manufacturers that leave circular polishing markings
on the blade. In the case of fluted tools, polishing is accomplished with
specially shaped abrasive impregnated rubber wheels. A thorough quality
inspection is made on each and every tool before it is proudly marked
HSS Steel, Made in
Sheffield England.
The Handles
While the
blades may be the most important part of a woodturning tool, the handle
can make a tremendous difference in the accuracy of your turning, as well
as how long you can turn before getting tired.
Robert Larson
turning tool handles were designed
in consultation with a leading woodturning company (established over a
century ago) to provide both a firm as well as comfortable grip that will
let you do your best work for hours on end! The handle starts with a blank
of quality ash wood, which is shaped into a unique style with beaded
grips. While other manufacturers will apply a lacquer finish to the
handle, our handles have an oil finish, which provides a firmer grip. A
solid brass sleeve is mounted on the front of the handle to strengthen the
fitting of the blade tang into the handle. Each tool has been given the
best size handle for the job.
Sets
A number of
sets have been assembled to provide help in selecting the basic turning
tools to begin your turning with. As you become more involved in turning
simply add tools from the wide range available.
Options
If you are a
woodturner that likes to "do-it-yourself" you will find that all of these
quality tools are available unhandled! Choose your wood from commonly
available hardwoods to exotic species to customize your woodturning tools
by making your own handles. The brass sleeves we use on our handles are available as
well. Another option is to handle your own tools, as replacement handles
are also listed. Perhaps you would like all longer handles . . . no
problem! You can also choose our sets in a kit form. These include blades,
oil finished handles, brass sleeves, and an instruction leaflet. Handling
is a small challenge that can also be a lot of fun.
Specifications
Each tool is
listed with a part number, overall handle length, blade length without
handle, and the cutting edge size.
Turning Tool
Storage
Check out our
tool roll and storage section for both leather and cloth turning tool
rolls. These help protect and organize your investment in these fine
tools.
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cabinet
makers, and finish carpenters.