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John Saxton
13th September 2000, 09:16 PM
It would be interesting to hear from those turners who have a moment to expound their ideas to chucking.
In bowls I sometimes glue chuck but predominately use either one of two of the older style scroll chucks,both set up for different uses one for outboard ,the other for inboard.
Can someone explain the advantages of the new teknatool scroll chuck over the older versions which I have.
Cheers http://ubb.ubeaut.com.au/ubb/smile.gif

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Johnno

jamesy
14th September 2000, 09:26 PM
In for a penny in for a pound. These new chucks work well because they they have a large expansion diameter and better surface to surface contact than the standard engineers chuck. I have tried a lot of chucks from the first Technatool, Henry Taylor, Bonhum (from Carbatech) and the Vicmarc. The Vicmarc beats all because it can hold everything from a piece if 13mm dowl (internal) to a large chink of wattle. Lets get this debate going!!!!!

Mal
14th September 2000, 09:58 PM
I just bought a new Vicmarc chuck a couple of weeks ago. It's great. It beats the Teknatool chuck I borrowed from a mate before that. One of the best features is that with a T bar, it only takes one hand to tighten. Trying to use two levers and hold the wood was a little awkward.

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Luv
Mal

John Thuijs
14th September 2000, 10:43 PM
How does this Vicmarc compare to the SupaNova? I do not have a scroll chuck as yet but have had a look at the SupaNova.

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John Thuijs

Jim Carroll
14th September 2000, 11:00 PM
John The Super Nova is used the same way as the Vicmar in that you only have a T bar to open and close the jaws. The T bar also pivots so that you can get it out of the way a little bit for clearance. There is also a large range of jaws to compliment the existing jaws you get when you purchase the scroll chuck. This type of system makes it easier to use than the original nova chuck because if you did not have a shaft lock on your lathe you needed three hands to tighten a bowl into place http://ubb.ubeaut.com.au/ubb/frown.gif
For more information regarding this chuck and other Teknatool products go to www.teknatool.com (http://www.teknatool.com)
I hope this helps you http://ubb.ubeaut.com.au/ubb/smile.gif

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Jim
Turn it up

JackoH
15th September 2000, 05:24 PM
I have a Vic marc VM120 chuck on my Vicmarc VL 300 Lathe and I think they are the best thing invented since sex (and possibly beer!)
I also have a vacuum chuck for reversing bowls to finish, and find that with the above,the screw point and the occasional home made jam-fit chuck I can do every thing I've ever wanted to. I also have a little Carbatec mini lathe with a Microstar mini chuck for little stuff, also brilliant.
John H. http://ubb.ubeaut.com.au/ubb/biggrin.gif

ubeaut
16th September 2000, 02:18 AM
What Doorstop said!!!

I have used in demo's a variety of Vicmarc, and Bonham's, Nova and Super Nova. Give me the Nova's any day. The range of jaws alone must put them in first place. Just the fact that one size chuck (with a variety of jaws) fits all work is fantastic and eliminates the worry of losing bits of knuckles if you happen to only own one of the bigger versions of the others and need to do smaller work. (I have left a few bits of bark on these bigger chucks over the years.)

We all have our preferances for tools etc. and mine is always for the most pracicle. In this respect there is no competition, Nova wins hands down in my book. I own Nova chucks with a variety of jaws. I do not own a Super Nova, I have a spindle lock. However I wouldn't knock one back if offered one by Latalex at the Melb WWW Show. (Hint, hint) http://ubb.ubeaut.com.au/ubb/wink.gif

Cheers - Neil

PS you can purchase the Nova's from Jim Carroll if needed. He is a good guy to deal with and won't push his own barrrow on the BB.

John Saxton
17th September 2000, 01:14 AM
I have looked at Jim Carrolls site he put up for Teknatool and am still trying to find any advantages of the new chucks over the old.
I mean you're up for some serious bux in the purchase of a new chuck these days and before imparting another fingerprint in the ol' Visa I guess it comes down to a personal preference.
I have noticed that my two scroll chucks though well worn,serve me well and cater for most of my needs except for the fact that with one having a left hand thread insert it leaves me short-handed when you have a need of another chuck.
I have also an English chuck on the small lathe that employs three jaws using C spanners to tighten and is ideal for small or miniature turning but has it's limitations.
Apparently there is good support for Vic-mark chuck as well as the Bonham so I guess there is a bit more research to be done.
With all the pro's and cons in the above I would assume that Teknatool still put out a good product in a chuck
Cheers and good to see healthy debate http://ubb.ubeaut.com.au/ubb/smile.gif

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Johnno

[This message has been edited by John Saxton (edited 17 September 2000).]

MJ
17th September 2000, 09:14 PM
I've previously had a bit of a whinge about the Bonham chuck on this BB, but this seems the ideal opportunity to have another go! I have a bonham, and it does the job, but after speaking to others and reading some of the postings above, I am sorry I didn't do some more research. I am sure I would have gone for the Vicmarc or Nova.

In its standard configuration, the Bonham does grip both ways without changing jaws. However, the expansion range is limited so the fillet or recess must fall within a quite small diameter range. The standard plates also have two sets of jaws which theoretically means that you have two different expansion jaws on the one set of plates. However, if you use the outside set you have to have a recess 15mm or more deep to accomodate the inner set. Add that to the thickness of the base of a bowl and it starts to get a bit thick.
When you buy the chuck, you are almost forced to also buy a set of expansion plates to give the chuck a greater expansion gripping range. (and they're about $40 from memory!!)

Another very annoying feature of the Bonham is that the expansion plates are mounted by means of small hex head screws. Unfortunately using the chuck on the lathe tightens the screws so far that they are impossible to remove with a standard allen key. After stripping two I was forced to purchase a "T" bar hex key to do the job.

I will say also that the Bonham is a very safe chuck. You can come into quite solid contact with it without leaving large chunks of your knuckles on it!!!

In engineering terms the Bonham is a fine piece of machinery. It's robust and well constructed. However, the annoying design features mentioned above would make me consider alternatives next time I buy a chuck.

Regards

Jacko

ubeaut
18th September 2000, 12:51 AM
John - Think you might find that Nova now have a duel thread insert (L&R thread in the one insert). This would take care of one of the problems you have.

If your Nova's work fine then stick with what you've got. Maybe you could shout yourself a variety of jaws. There are plenty to choose from.

The grass may look greener on the other side of the fence. But it isn't always as tasty and sometimes it's been shat on by some else. YUCK!!! http://ubb.ubeaut.com.au/ubb/eek.gif

Cheers - Neil

P.S. There is no difference between the Nova & Super Nove when it comes to chucking the work. All the same jaws fit both chucks. The major differences are in the action of the locking mechanism, with the Super having a one handed action through a T-bar key. It also has shiny bits and costs more.

Rod
18th September 2000, 03:56 PM
I have had a Bonham for about four years, no complaints its a good chuck. However a few months ago I purchased a Supa Nova because the Bonham couldn't do what I wanted it to do. The range of jaws available for the Nova chuck is terrific. I still use the Bonham a lot because the expanding/contracting dovetail works just fine for a lot of applications.

For anyone purchasing a new chuck I think the versatility of the Nova would be hard to beat.

John Saxton
18th September 2000, 08:26 PM
Cheers Neil, I wasn't aware of the dual purpose threaded insert but I will make some enquiries and maybe save me some bux.I,ll not only buy you a cup of coffee, perhaps a beer as well for services rendered.

I do have a few different set's of jaws but until now it has been a pain in the bum having to change particularly with one useful threaded chuck.

Finally about the grass being greener on the other side have you ever noticed how a paddock full o' cows don't seem to mind where they're eatin'

Cheers http://ubb.ubeaut.com.au/ubb/smile.gif

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Johnno

ubeaut
19th September 2000, 12:04 AM
What a cow of a thing to say, and thats no bull!!!

John Thuijs
21st September 2000, 09:13 PM
I have looked on "Southern Woodturning Supplies" website and read the sales blurb on both the Vicmarc and the Nova/SupaNova. The Vicmarc has a hollow centre so through boring can be done from either end. I cannot see that feature in the sales blurb for the SupaNova. Is this possible on the SupaNova?

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John Thuijs

Graeme
21st September 2000, 11:10 PM
John

Glad you found our site, I've lifted those sales blurbs off the respective suppliers web sites, Teknatool don't mention it but their chucks allow through boring as well.
We sell both brands so don't ask me which is better, I must remain neutral!(cop out)

Regards Graeme


[This message has been edited by Graeme (edited 21 September 2000).]

Jim Carroll
27th September 2000, 10:28 PM
Well its time to push my own barrow. Thanks Neil for the compliment.
With the upcoming Melbourne Working with Wood Show Jim Carroll ( Carroll's Woodcraft Supplies) & Ray Sanders (Beenatree Crafts) have got together with Teknatool to offer some really great specials on the Supernova Chucks, Nova 3000 Lathe and the introduction of the Mercury mini lathe.

Stand 65

The Supernova Companion Chuck will sell for $185.00, this is the ideal chuck to buy if you already have a nova chuck and want to upgrade and buy a second set of jaws. This is the bare chuck including insert and jaw screws. Save $62.00

The Standard Super Nova will sell for $220.00 this includes the 50mm jaws, woodscrew, jaw screws and insert. Save $64.50

The Premier Super Nova for gripping those logs includes the companion chuck, extra long woodscrew, Premier Jaws and insert will sell for $242.00 a saving of $62.50.

These bargains will be available at the show ( Oct 27-29)
If you are unable to attend the show they are available via mail order in this same period so give us a call prior to the show so we can put a chuck away for you .
Carroll's Woodcraft Supplies 03 5251 3874
Beenatree Crafts 03 5998 2881

If you can get to the show the Nova 3000 lathe will be on special with a bonus companion scroll chuck at a great price.

So come and see us on stand 65 then go and see Uncle Neil and his motley crew and get your free coffee on stand 18 But be very nice to Aunty Pauline

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Jim
Turn it up

John Saxton
27th September 2000, 10:46 PM
I might have to take you up on that offer Jim and have a look at those sets of jaws you have, preferably to allow a little more choice on the lathe of course.
I will have to give you a tingle and we'll sort something out.
Cheers http://ubb.ubeaut.com.au/ubb/smile.gif
Apologies for using the BB in this regard But e-mail is down!

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Johnno

Gino
28th September 2000, 03:04 PM
Hi fella's

I've yet to purchase a chuck and I'm just begining to look into it. I've come across a chuck at the woodsmith called a "Titan".
It's made in England and it goes for $335 or $365 depending on the locking mechanism. It looks very well made.
Has anyone heard of it and do you have an opinion on it?
I would be most intersted in what you may have to re this chuck.

thanks

Gino

Gino
28th September 2000, 03:08 PM
Re my previous post.

I forgot to mention how does this chuck compare to the others.

Gino

John Saxton
28th September 2000, 08:56 PM
G,day Gino,can you offer us a brief description on the chuck you have in mind.
Cheers http://ubb.ubeaut.com.au/ubb/smile.gif

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Johnno

Iain
28th September 2000, 10:20 PM
My concern would be the current exchange rate on a UK chuck, I have a Bonham on my little record which I think is OK and I paid well under $300 for it.
Something to consider when importing a product and value for your hard earned readies.
I rarely contribute to this forum as my wood turning skills are suspect but I do appreciate value for my dollar and something would have to be very bloody good before I would consider it over a local product.

Gino
28th September 2000, 11:30 PM
Thanks John and Ian for you reply.

First let me say that I'm with you Ian re purchasing localy. I only buy imported stuff if it really is a lot better hence me posting the question.
As for a better discription of it I'm not sure what to say about it (please keep in mind I know very little about the subject)

But here i go anyway.
Things that I've taken off the advert on A4 paper says that
1) it is only 83mm in diameter
2) it has a hardened scroll ring as per an engineering chuck
3) The jaw slots are fully enclosed ie the jaw carriers are fully self contained.
4) It has inbuilt indexing (24 positions)
5) has a variety of different jaw types available, it can also take faceplate rings, mounting plates, mores taper mounts, drill chucks, and a bit more.

Hope this is of use to you

regards

Gino

DonN
29th September 2000, 05:41 AM
Gino
If you wait until the Wood show at the end of Oct. you will be able to buy a Nova Chuck at a lot less than the Multstar Chuck. Nova may not look as good in apparence but it is engineered just as good. I have 2 super Nova chucks and 1 multstar Titan chuck.
DonN

ubeaut
29th September 2000, 09:15 AM
Gino
I don't want to denigrate English technology but. Almost everything made for woodturning in England is either from the dark ages or a rip off of a product from another country.

There are 3 main scroll chucks here Teknatool (made in NZ), Vicmarc & Bonham (both made in Aust). All are excellent chucks but to reiterate. Teknatool have the goods when it comes to jaw combinations. At the prices quoted by Jim Carroll for the WWW Show you would be mad to buy anything other than a Tecknatool - Nova or Super Nova. http://ubb.ubeaut.com.au/ubb/smile.gif

With the Titan you will be paying well over $300 for what is probably (at tops) only a $100 chuck, and if it is like some other English imports - spare parts etc. aren't always readily available. http://ubb.ubeaut.com.au/ubb/frown.gif Although I must admit that the Woodsmith does tend to keep pretty good backup supplies for products like this.

John Saxton
29th September 2000, 09:00 PM
G,day Gino, can I make a suggestion that you check out the comparisons if you can on the relevant manufacturers or their agents www sites.
Conversely with the Oz dollar being in a sad state these days the question begs that if you buy local not only will you get parts and service readily but more value overall.

I have a couple of Nova chucks and have served me well for close on a decade now but I would possibly look at the bigger of the two Vic-mark chucks if indeed I was contemplating a purchase of a new chuck.....they compare favourably.
Cheers and hope this dosen't confuse you any more. http://ubb.ubeaut.com.au/ubb/smile.gif

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Johnno

Gino
30th September 2000, 11:34 PM
Dear DonN, Ubeaut and John Saxton.

Thanks for your valued opinion/information.
I will take your advise and wait for the working with wood show. And purchase either a Supernova chuck or a Vicmarc.
I felt it would come to this anyway I just needed to see what people with more experience then I had to say.
And I'm very gratful for your help.

Best regards

Gino