I have a 7x10 (7x12?) mini lathe. Do you think that is big enough to work on a bolt handle...or do you think I would need a larger (i.e. more rigid) lathe?
Thanks in advance for your thoughts.
Printable View
I have a 7x10 (7x12?) mini lathe. Do you think that is big enough to work on a bolt handle...or do you think I would need a larger (i.e. more rigid) lathe?
Thanks in advance for your thoughts.
I can't answer that as I've never owned or operated any other lathe besides the one I have now. I'm guessing you'd be fine, but maybe someone more knowledgeable will chime in.Quote:
Originally Posted by thomae
It really should be, but without seeing your set up in person, I will say that i usually keep my cut depth on the lighter side when using those mini-lathes.
Nice looking fixture. What RPM do you turn at?
It looks like I just found me another project.
Is it made with mild steel or something that can be heat treated. I love making any kind of useful gadgets.
Thanks.
I made it from a piece of 1" mild steel, but it wouldn't matter. The angle is 11 degrees. I don't know what RPM it's turning at. I bought an old South Bend lathe last year and started playing. Those details like RPMs, SFPM, and feed rates are still beyond me. I just know how to make bolt knobs and install muzzle brakes ;DQuote:
Originally Posted by mike82352
I got me a jig made and turned my first bolt. Works really well, Thank you for the idea.
I did not realize how hard these handles are? It was some slow cutting until I got past the hardend part.
http://i1144.photobucket.com/albums/...bolthandle.jpg
http://i1144.photobucket.com/albums/...52/boltjig.jpg
I got the 7x10 and plan on trying this some time.Quote:
Originally Posted by thomae
Make sure you have carbide tooling, as these bolts are hard!!!! The center of the bolt is softer, but that outside portion is tuff. It will also be easier to dial in with a 4 jaw chuck. Other then taking it slow ,you should be able to do this. I think the next one I do, I will grind it down before I chuck it in the lathe, just to get past the case hardened portion.
It helps to gring the outer layer down on a belt sander or with a grinder. The polished blue ones seem to be the hardest coating to get through. Be prepared to find air pockets inside as well!
Here's a few more of mine.
http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h2...edknobs001.jpg
http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h2...s/rails005.jpg
I'll take the LH ones. ;D
Those look great.
Where's the slobber, druel, and repeat e-con?Quote:
Originally Posted by mscott71
I like the first one inline myself. I would love to have one.
He made me the first one on the left and I really like it. It is in natural aluminum and stainless colors.
Here's a stainless one uncoated.
http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h2...verknob003.jpg