Don Geiger Report
I have two of the Kobra systems. One is the Green model designed for use on mini lathes and I had Jerry, at Kobra, build me a system to support it on my Stubby. I also have a Red model system that fits my Stubby (16" over the bed) and Jerry has supplied me with what I need to adapt it to lathes up to 24" for my demos.
The Kobra has a thrust bearing at each joint which, if I remember correctly, is rated at 1,850 lbs of torque. The tension of each joint is adjustable and there is no slop, vibration or noise even when it is full extended. The Red Kobra comes with a 1" i.d. receiver that has two set screws for securing the boring bar. I have the 1" X 15" bar and adapters for 3/4", 5/8", and 1/2" bars. Additionally, I use a set of Trent Bosch bars and several others. The 1" bar that is supplied with the Kobra is center drill with a 1/2" hole to accept their straight, 22.5 and 45 degree tool bit holders and two scraper bits holders. One thing I really like about their tool bit supports is they have square broached holes to accept standard tool bits without having to round them first!!! This is huge! I buy a box of bits from a machinist's supply and sharpen both ends of each so all I have to do when one gets dull is to flip it around and keep turning. Also, not having to pre-round or purchase pre-rounded bits saves time and money. I have the tool bit supports for 1/4" and 3/16" square bits. I even have carbide bits with square shanks that fit into the holders.
I asked Jerry to make me an 1/2" thick off-set plate to place the intitial pivot point behind the bed of the lathe several inches (about 6")which gives me more reach for getting under the lip of hollow forms. I can also attach the plate to the auxilary bed of my Stubby which gives me much more flexibility. This extension plate is now standard with all Kobras.
I couldn't be happier with the products or the service at Kobra.
Jerry called me the other day and they have some Kobras in-stock now and can ship quickly. He can be reached at
jatooling@yahoo.com .
Don Geiger