2011 Thompson Lathe Tools purchase
Earlier this year I commented that I would most likely organise the next Thompson tool buy when life quietened down a bit, probably September. Well September is here and so is the group 2011 Thompson Lathe Tools purchase. Not so certain that life has quitened down, though.:doh:
I have permission from those on high to conduct it in a similar manner to that conducted by NeilS last year (last year's thread) . Thanks to Neil for flling me in on the behind scenes dirty work.:2tsup:
The Aussie $ is at about 1.04 at the moment which just might cover the forex costs. Doug has again offered to pay for postage... thanks Doug (assuming we get a reasonable order together).
The Thompson website is here. Remember that gouge sizes listed are rod widths, not flute widths like the UK sizing, and that all tools come unhandled. Doug is offering handles that can be purchased separately. And, to quote Doug, "Next week I will have a 16 inch handle for the 1-1/4 spindle rouging gouge". I see that he has some tools made from 15V tool steel.
Please let me know what you would like and if there is any interest. I want to close this off fairly quickly and note that last year it was all done and ordered in about 2 weeks - So I'll aim to order the first week of October, and we will well and truly get our new toys before Xmas. So not too much procrastination please
The process will be much the same as last year; funds transfer upfront, etc. If required I’ll pressgang someone in another state to be a co-distribution point. Also note that some tools are unavailable (this is marked clearly on the website) and there will be no back ordering as part of this exercise. Doug has also said that any 20" or over 20” handle is too long for his postage offer, sorry.
And, for the benefit of those that haven't had a chance to use a Thompson Tool they are pretty good. (A bit of an understatement really). Have a look for Ern’s comments (rsser) here and here