On Sep 7, 6:05 pm, "skidog" skidog@snownews wrote:
I'm considering purchasing a bowl gouge from Woodcraft. I figure the gouge
should have a bar diameter of at least 1/2". I can only afford one bowl
gouge at this time and I'm stuck between a 3/8" or 1/2". I'm currently
working on a Delta Midi and not turning large pieces. Which of the
following manufacturers is the best value for the dollar: Pinnacle, Sorby,
Ellsworth Signature or Crown Pro PM? Thanks in advance....Joel


Hello Joel,

You've had a lot of advice and most of it is good. Many years ago, I
was at your point in time and I purchased a Robert Sorby spindle
gouge. And, after using it for a short time, I managed to afford a
Robert Sorby 3/8" bowl gouge. I've never regretted either purchase.
Currently, I have bowl gouges by Robert Sorby, Crown, Hamlet, and
Ashley Iles. I do not own any of the inexpensive brand tools, nor will
I waste money on them.

For your size lathe, a 3/8" bowl gouge will be most useful and as
someone mentioned will not load your lathe down quite as much.
Incidentally, I use the Ellsworth grind on virtually all of my bowl
gouges. It is a grind that will take you from the rim of the bowl all
of the way to the bottom in one pass without having to change tools,
otherwise you need two gouges or need to regrind your gouge to finish
the bottom of the bowl. The Ellsworth jig (available from several
sources and I believe Woodcraft sells it) is designed for a 5/8" bowl
gouge, but I use it to grind 1/2" and 3/8" tools as well.

Buy a good quality tool and you'll never regret it.

Fred Holder
http://www.fholder.com