turbine tools

[Bgosh]

I am looking to purchase a turbine tool and am wondering which one would be the one to get. I do not know anything about these except that the power crafter is made in the USA and needs oil for lubrication.I will be using this to do some carving on a gun stock and if someone could put me in the right direction I would be very greatfull. Thank you Stan

[lorax]

I have the powercrafter (the metal one) and I love it. I didn't get the instructions with it, but it would probably benefit you to get one of those DVDs on gunstock carving. I have done a couple things with mine, but I can see the value in some step-by-step instruction for a big project like a gunstock.

The thing I struggle with the most is which type of bit to use. I bought the gammit of bits, but with a viewing of the video I'm sure I would have saved some dough. I think a few shapes of carbide and a whole bunch of diamond bits would be what you need to get started.

The Powercrafter is a fine tool, as I'm sure the Turbocarver is, I would say if you find a good price, you cant go wrong. I got mine off of ebay for a bargain. Getting a good air pressure regulator, water seperator, and filter is also important.

good luck
Pat

[Munionman]

Stan,
I bought a complete Paragraver turbine system from Profitable Hobbies several years ago and have done gunstocks and other fine detail work with it. While the complete system isn't cheap, it includes everything you need to get set up in your own business. Profitable Hobbies provides a number of instructional DVDs on gunstock carving, knife engraving, scrimshaw, etc., as well as all the supplies you need.

Check out their web site at: Wood Carving | High Speed Engraving

Joe

[deweyrf91]

Stan,
I have a powercrafter and I really like it. A few complaints though, you do have to oil it occasionally while carving. The other complaint is you will have to make sure you keep moisture out of your supply air. I ruined the turbine on mine, cost 80 dollars plus shipping to have it fixed. So, just make sure you have clean, moisture free air. It uses friction bits, which makes it nice. I did have some fly out on me though. But as far as carving it really carves through even the hardest woods. It does details wonderfully though. I would recommend getting one that does not require the oiling though. Good luck!

[WoodCarverOH]

I have the Turbocarver for over 1 year now and love it. No lube required, no vibration.
I've cut wood, glass, acrylic, egg shells with no problems.