3 point rests and long bits

[bloggs1968]

This forum is great to get info on stuff you have no idea about.

Anyway another query if I may.

I want to turn some long spindles up to around 10'. would it be possible to use a 3 point rest ( I think that is what they're called) to support the work in the middle? Would I need 1 or 2? Any advice on brands?

TIA

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[hughie]

I want to turn some long spindles up to around 10'. would it be possible to use a 3 point rest ( I think that is what they're called) to support the work in the middle? Would I need 1 or 2? Any advice on brands?

Hmmm, well at that length it would almost be a given that you need a steady, maybe even two. Brands, most lathe manufacturers have their own design available as after market items.So first contact your lathe manufacturer.

http://www.newwoodworker.com/stdyrstpln.html
http://www.turnwood.net/projects/SteadyRest.pdf
http://www.woodturningonline.com/Tur...cles.html#jigs

Failing that make your own, above are a few links to start you off. Do also a search of the forum as this topic has been covered extensively in the past with some very good info

[RETIRED]

What diameter?

[bloggs1968]

Thanks Hughie,

I'll have a look at the links.

,

looking at up to 2 1/2". I was making a set of oars the other day the old fashioned way - 8 sided, 16 sided etc and thought how easy and quick would this be with a lathe. A pair of oars takes about 3-4 days from start to finish and being able to turn them would save at least a day. Still have to shape the blades with the other tools.

I experimented a while back on another lathe on a small boat mast. I took the tail stock off the bed and screwed it to a bench to extend the bed length. Worked okay for sanding ( still shaped it with a plane) but seemed a bit delicate for shaping without some other support amidships.

regards,

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