Help with tools please

[Roxy]

Hi,
I just wanted to ask your opinion on what set of turning tools would make a nice gift?
My brother makes bowls etc and has kindly and patiently helped me make some for Christmas presents
I would like to get him a decent set of tools as a thank you. He does have a lot of tools already, but I thought a new set might go down well.
Any input would be very helpful,
Thank you!

 

[GazPal]

Hi,

This sounds like an excellent idea and I wish you every ounce of luck in finding a good set your brother will be able to use for years to come. My own turning tools are a little outdated, as they're 70's era by Marples and I've not replaced or added any for quite some time, but I'm sure someone here can help

 

[Noggsy]

Roxy, welcome to the forum, it s a lovely idea what you suggest, but to be honest, I wouldn't do it. Most turners I have met have lots of turning tools, many of which end up redundant and the ones you get in sets tend not to be the best quality, unless you go for a very high end one (which will be very expensive). If it were me receiving the gift, I would prefer to receive the next tool on my 'list', which is likely to be for a specific task rather than the standard ones in a set (bowl, roughing, spindle gouges etc). A good alternative would be to get him some Axminster vouchers, but I accept that this is less personal.

If you know any of his turning friends or if he has a partner, they may well know what bit of kit he is lusting after, but I honestly don't think that a set of tools is likely to add much to his collection. Good luck.

 

[Phil Pascoe]

No matter what the quality of the tools, half of any set will never be used. It's false economy to buy sets.

 

[jimi43]

Wood turners never have enough of one simple thing....wood blanks!

The variety of exotic woods out there to make things with is astounding.....and you can either surprise him with a recommendation from one of our turner brethren or buy him a gift token from someone like Matt at WORKSHOP HEAVEN.

That link is to his wood page but they also sell consumables and tools...either of which would be great to get with a gift token.

So you have a choice...surprise him with a new exotic blank of wood which one of our guys would like to have...or go the safe gift token route with a bit more flair!

That's what I would like if it were me. The mere fact that you have gone this far would make me glad to have such a considerate sister! =D>

Jim

 

[Roxy]

Thank you all for the replies, it has been really helpful, what a lovely forum!
I am going to get a gift voucher and as you said he can pick what he wants.
Thanks again!
Roxy x

 

[xy mosian]

Gift vouchers, at least in my hands, sometimes get put to one side until too late. How about a day out at the store of his choice, with you along side to pick up the bill, or at least part of it.
xy