Tip: protectors for the ends of tools

[John K Jordan]

Quick tip.

I keep many tools without handles in a shallow drawer behind me when I'm at the lathe, and in other places.

I make custom inserts for tool handles, mount the bare tools in the handles when needed, then often hang them on a wall.
But when in the drawer, the sharpened tools are vulnerable to damage. This is especially true for the extremely sharp cutters on the Hunter tools.
In addition to damage in the shop, the tools can really get damaged when transporting to and from a demo or class.



To protect the ends I make cheap but effective protectors from plastic tubing. I once went to the hardware store
and bought 3' of every size of clear plastic tubing they had - so handy for many things!

To make the tool tip protectors I cut off a short piece of tubing that will fit snugly on a tool. Heat the end with a
small heat gun until the plastic softens, then squeeze the end together with some pliers.
Sometimes I don't even bother with closing up the ends but just use the piece of tubing.

These work well!

JKJ

 

[Tom Gall]

@John K Jordan I also use plastic tubing but don't bother to heat the ends. For shorter tools (tool length from handle) I just cut a length a little longer than the tool and slide it on until it hits the ferrule. On longer tools (i.e. gouges) usually a 4-6" long piece will do the trick. Because the tubing comes off a spool there is always a curve, which gives enough friction to keep it it place. Of course, the ID of the tubing should be a little larger than the tool diameter. Easy on - easy off. For some larger tools (i.e. SRG's, etc.) I've used the black foam pipe insulation and use duct tape on the ends - similar purpose to your heat & crimp mentioned above.

 

[Tim Mortimer]

Yep, I use plastic tubing too. However I wrap a piece of red tape around the tubing because it often falls on the floor among the shavings and it makes it easier to find?

 

[Gerald Lawrence]

I used to use PVC . Heat it to form fit on tool and let it cool. You may have to reheat to get it off but beware it does want to go back to original shape.