Hollowing tools

[Jim Nelson]

Is there a consensus on the best hollowing tool system- I find several systems from vendors I buys from, but I’d like to make an informed decision- thanks

 

[Steve Saah]

Of course there’s a consensus on the best, just as there is for the best lathe, the best chucks, the best gouges and steels. 🤣🤪

Sorry Jim, but I couldn’t help it.

And I can’t actually help too much on your specific question as I made my own, but I’m sure the rest of the gang will chime in. Good luck!

 

[hockenbery]

There are lots of choices and they all do some jobs well.
Check with local clubs.

I like the Jamieson system with the Trent Bosch bars and the Bosch visualizer.

This tread is a pretty good discussion

Yet another hollowing system question

Jamieson, Bosch, or Elbo? Or is there something else that’s better? I know there are a lot of threads but is there one thread that compares the pros and cons of the top hollowing systems? Or is there new information? I’m looking to hollow up to 12 inches, later to add laser or camera...

www.aawforum.org

 

[Dave Landers]

Is there a consensus on the best hollowing tool system

No. That is, there is no consensus.
Nor is there actually really any "best". Some are better for some tasks and/or some ways of working, and/or some types of forms.

There is certainly a system that is best for the way I work... but I have to admit that the way I work is likely strongly influenced by the system I use.

 

[Dean Center]

Lots of folks have bought several. Considering the investment and how personal preference and fit play such a crucial role in deciding, I'd recommend test driving some systems before buying. Local club members may have some, classes may have several to try, vendors bring gear to symposia. Lots of ways to try before you buy.

 

[Bill Alston]

Of course there’s a consensus on the best, just as there is for the best lathe, the best chucks, the best gouges and steels. 🤣🤪

Sorry Jim, but I couldn’t help it.

And I can’t actually help too much on your specific question as I made my own, but I’m sure the rest of the gang will chime in. Good luck!

What type did you make, do you have any pictures you’d like to share? 🙂

 

[Kevin Jenness]

Lots of options, if you can get your hands on some different systems through a club that would be good. Lyle Jamieson has a good simple setup. I have the Clark system and it is very stout, perhaps one of the best for deep hollowing but a little cumbersome. I recently got a Trent Bosch rig which is what I use most for moderate size work, very quick to set up and well designed and made.

 

[Darryl Fective]

This reminds me of the motorcycle forums and questions about motor oil or tires.

 

[Steve Saah]

What type did you make, do you have any pictures you’d like to share? 🙂

I’m sorry Bill, but I don’t have any pics available at the moment. I’ll try to take some this weekend for you. In a nutshell, it’s an articulated arm version that clamps to the ways along with the tailstock via a Jacob’s chuck. On the business end, it has a simple ferrule with set screws to use standard hollowing tools - I use John Jordan. I’ve also installed both a laser and camera / monitor to assist with getting the final wall thickness just right.

 

[Mark Jundanian]

No single answer to your question. For what I do, the Simple Hollowing System hs been great.