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hook tools

Joined
Apr 25, 2004
Messages
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Location
Burnt Chimney, SW Virginia
Website
www.burntchimneystudios.com
I saw Alan Lacer use a hook tool to hollow part of a turned box. It looked easy. I figured "ride that bevel and nooooo problem". Wrong. That sucker likes to catch. Now this was on end grain, as if hollowing a box, and it was a piece of waste walnut that is dry and cuts nicely with a small gouge. I started the process with a spindle gouge and then tried the hook tool.

1. Okay, make fun of me. I'm married and can take abuse. 😀 😀

2. Provide any tips on the use of the hook tool that you might have.

3. And I thank you.
 
Okay, what hook tool were you using? I have Stewart hook tools, both large and small, and there is no bevel to ride.

Perhaps you were using a hook tool that is used in the way you use a ring tool?
 
Last edited:
pictures

I found pictures of Alan Lacer making and using a hook tool, and it is one of Alan's that I am using.

Hook tool pictures

This is the first page of two. At the bottom you see Alan using the tool, and that may have a clue to its use. The next page shows the tool in a close-up.

To explain the bevel, point with your left index finger, then bend it in as far as you can. The bevel is about where your knuckle is and that is where you sharpen it.

I may have had the tool in too upright a position. 😕
 
Ed,

I have made and use an Allen Lacer hook tool. It has been my experience that it great for engrain green turning. Turning in dry end grain requires a much lighter touch as the tool want to remove large amounts of stock resulting in a catch. All I can suggest is chuck up some scrsp and go at it till you get the feel. One other thing, when I first made my tool it didn't cut for beans. I experimented with resharpining ( different bevel degrees) until it workred to my satisfaction.
 
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