Pens - Irish Bog Oak

Bloosman · 9 Jul 2008

First post, so be kind folks...

I've obtained a number of pen blanks, cut from rather old Irish Bog Oak.

Has anyone used this stuff before...?

Any pitfalls that I should known about...?

Dougie.

Paul.J · 9 Jul 2008

Hello Dougie and welcome

Haven't used it meself but i believe it can be brittle,so a nice sharp tool is needed i should think.
Will look forward to seeing some finished.

Bloosman · 9 Jul 2008

Thanks for the welcome Paul...I'll ensure my tools are sharp enough, and certainly post the results on the forum..

Dougie.

mr · 9 Jul 2008

I've used Bog oak, beware the sudden hollows in it. No telling if they're there until you cut whereupon you might discover hidden hollows. Other than that it seems to respond well to sharp tools and polishes well with high grit papers.
Don't know if you can see it too well in the picture but the black bit on this knife is Bog Oak, as is the black offcut at the top.

cheers Mike [/url]

jpt · 10 Jul 2008

Bog oak is great stuff to turn but as the others said sharp tools and light cuts are needed. So is good dust protection, it is like sanding coal, I imagine, lots of fine dust that sticks to everything.

It will take a good finish but is open grained so I find to get the best finish I use the BLO/Super glue method.

john

oldone · 11 Jul 2008

Hi all...Just loged on for the first time and I am a newby
I saw the post by Bloosman and had to join in as I am at the moment using IBO to make some pens.. I love the stuff . As Paul.J and mr Cabinetmaker
say sharp tools are a must.
I find its best to use the tools direct from the grinder with just a little rough edge..Also take care drilling, if the drill overheats it can split the wood..