Having some kinda sale, duno if these prices are special but I gonna get one. http://www.grizzly.com/products/items-list.cfm?key=560000&gid=8223BF53-CCE2-4F9B-8EB2-7187AF9398E2&site=grizzly


Which model? Everyone seems to like the mini G9247, what about the G8690 (20" between centers andmore hp), can you turn 2 or 3 plugs at a time? For that matter how about the G8691 (40" between centers and more hp) turn many at one time plus even comes with a stand for $20 more?

Are the Grizzly tools (turning sets or chisel set) any good?

Do I need a "live" or "spur" center?

I have a 9247. It is an older model and has the 1/3 HP motor. It works fine, but the headstock or spur center is kind of lame. The nice thing about it is that it has a cast iron bed and variable speed without flipping the belt. For the money can't go wrong. I have turned approximately 200 plugs with it and it is still running strong. Someday when it goes kapoot I will buy a Jet mini lathe.As far as turning multiple plugs at a time, not worth it in my opinion. I tried it with pikies and was more of a hassle than it was worth. Hope this answered some of your questions.

I got the 8693 about 18 months ago. Has worked well for me. 3/4 hp, 19 inch between centers, variable speed, around $150. Have done several hundred plugs on it, plus use it for center drilling pikies (added a chuck and arbor for that purpose). I got a couple of cheap tools when I first started, then upgraded once I figured out the basics. Good tools are definitely worth it. A 3/4 inch gouge and 1 inch skew is all that I use. Robert Sorby tools are the good ones I picked up. Keep them sharp and they'll keep you happy.

Make sure to pick up a face shield before turning. A good filter mask is also recommended to keep the small dust out of your lungs.

As for multiple plugs at the same time, depends on the size of the plug. For the larger stuff, I agree with Newell, one at a time is best. I do some smaller stuff (under 3 inches) for freshwater fishing. For those, multiple plugs is best as it will give you more room to work. I did a set of four, 1 1/2 inch poppers the other day. Not sure those would have been possible one at a time.

Jigman