Sorby Spindlemaster

[Graham]

Has anybody used it ? does it offer any advantages over spindle gouge and skew ?

[Derwent Woodturning club]

Yes, I've got the ½" and ¾" versions, and they are great tools to use. The profile angle is similar to a skew so you can get fine, deep detail, but, not having 'points', they seem inherently more friendly. And they are easy to sharpen, just hone the top, flat surface. Never touch the rounded bevel with anything, apart from a polishing mop.
If you really want to see these tools put through their paces, try and get to a Tony Wilson demonstration and ask him to show how to use them. He produces some incredibly delicate turnings.

[Katchin]

I just bought one of these, any recommendations on sharpening stones?

[Derwent Woodturning club]

I just bought one of these, any recommendations on sharpening stones?

I use a Fallkniven Diamond Ceramic Knife Sharpener Whetstone DC3/DC4, as recommended by Guy Ravine, although he was using it to sharpen a hollowing tool. These stones are double sided with a fine diamond side and a very fine ceramic side. If you use both sides you can get a razor sharp edge on knives but the ceramic side is also great for polishing the top of a spindlemaster.

I got mine from a1tackleshop who sell on ebay, but I always advise searching around as prices are always changing. And there are two sizes, your choice. This link may help http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Fallkniven-Diamond-Ceramic-Knife-Sharpener-Whetstone-DC3-DC4-Stone-Wetstone-/280861106836

[Graham]

Thanks for the replies guys. My eyesight leaves a bit to be desired and I think I might feel a bit more comfortable with this than the skews I have

[Katchin]

also thanks
and ordered

[Graham]

I see Hamlet do the same thing, but in more sizes, under the name of the Spindlemaker

[Derwent Woodturning club]

I see Hamlet do the same thing, but in more sizes, under the name of the Spindlemaker

Hi Graham,
Ashley Iles (my favourite toolmaker) also do their own version, which they call Elliptical Spindle Tool, available in ½", ¾" and 1" sizes.

[Graham]

Ahh. I have never seen their turning tools but if they are like their ordinary wood chisels....... Mmmmm, to die for