Hi Paul
I have used the majority of hollowing tools since I started turning 16 years ago, in my workshop I use a combination of tools which are: both sizes of the munroe, Trent bosch swan necks, Melvyn firmagers angle tools and my own home made tools
I use a combination as I’ve yet to find just one tool that will cover all shapes and sizes of hollow forms that I want to hollow.
The best way to find out which suits your needs best is to try a few before you commit to buying them, you are more than welcome to email me and pop over to my workshop if you wish.
I have had several people in the past few months do just that and overall most can use all the tools within the first few minutes but most find that my tools are the easiest to pick up and feel comfortable with in the shortest amount of time.
Some advantages of my style of tools is that they can work through very small holes so the user is not restricted in the future as their skill level or projects progress. My tools also make tiny chips or dust within the hollow form which are easier to get out compared to shielded cutters which make shavings.
Shielded cutters do remove material quicker and most of them have the advantage of moveable links which can be quickly adjusted to suit the situation, also the smaller munroe can hollow thru a ¾” or 5/8” hole with practice.
Hollowing is a huge subject and one that I am passionate about, there is no one suits all in my opinion but there are good all rounder’s like the mini munroe, but if you are new to hollowing and can’t justify the munroe price then my style of tools might allow you to dip your toe in the water so to speak for less outlay and see if you enjoy hollow form turning.