The winters are long here, so I'm considering picking up a hobby lathe for wood turning, which I can use to try my hand at creating shaving brush handles, and maybe some fountain and roller-ball pens.
I've got my eye on the Wen 3421, though I see two on the 'zon, one is $170, the other is $238, and I'm unable to determine any notable difference in the tool. One, the lesser expensive model, is labeled "2023 model", though there is no indication if the other (pricier) 3421 model is older or newer.
Anyway, I know nothing about using a lathe. The last time I used one was in high school wood shop 50 years ago, where I turned a bowl for my mom.
Of course, I have questions:
- Cutting tools.
I'll need a set of tools. Any considerations?
- Stock
I see pen kits and I see pen blanks. Any considerations for a beginner?
Will I need a vise and drill press to center and drill the blanks? I don't really want to invest in additional, limited-use tools that aren't strictly necessary.
I'm also thinking, as I progress, of turning corn cobs and briar into smoking pipes...or maybe forgetting the whole thing altogether.


Any tips or advice?
I've got my eye on the Wen 3421, though I see two on the 'zon, one is $170, the other is $238, and I'm unable to determine any notable difference in the tool. One, the lesser expensive model, is labeled "2023 model", though there is no indication if the other (pricier) 3421 model is older or newer.
Anyway, I know nothing about using a lathe. The last time I used one was in high school wood shop 50 years ago, where I turned a bowl for my mom.
Of course, I have questions:
- Cutting tools.
I'll need a set of tools. Any considerations?
- Stock
I see pen kits and I see pen blanks. Any considerations for a beginner?
Will I need a vise and drill press to center and drill the blanks? I don't really want to invest in additional, limited-use tools that aren't strictly necessary.
I'm also thinking, as I progress, of turning corn cobs and briar into smoking pipes...or maybe forgetting the whole thing altogether.



Any tips or advice?
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