Duplicator question

[Dad 818]

Guys I am getting ready to get a PSI Mini-Lathe with the variable speed. I am also getting a "universal" duplicator as well. My question is does a duplicator come with the cutting tool as part of the package?

Thanks in advance. Will be getting knee surgery Friday so I need new toys to help me recover!

[a4scoot]

A "Vega" duplicator comes with a tool steel bit as part of the package. I assume all duplicators have a cutting tool as part of the package. It has been said many times on the plug building sites that you should learn to turn plugs conventionaly before moving on to a duplicator which i would agree with. You need to have that hands on feal of cutting the wood with a chizel before tring to duplicate a plug you have not made before,

[Rockfish9]

Yes, the "universal" comes with a HSS cutter....I had one that was part of the package when i bought my Turncrafter ... if you ony make a few plugs or "trinkets" a year, it will be fine.. but, my advise is to put the money towards a Vega....as eventualy, that's what you will do anyway.

[ElSluggo]

Will a vega duplicator fit on most lathes? I have an older delta rockwell. How much can you expect to pay for a vega? Thanks

[ProfessorM]

pretty much but a picture of your lathe would help. I have a Vega but I don't use it much, I prefer my homemade one, so i am not an expert as to how they mount but many here do use them so post a pic of your lathe and I am sure someone will have the answer for you.

[Striperknight]

Cutter comes with it. I have this duplicator on my lathe.
Works well for small amounts of plugs.

[angler229]

Originally Posted by ElSluggo

Will a vega duplicator fit on most lathes? I have an older delta rockwell. How much can you expect to pay for a vega? Thanks

I think the mini lathe duplicator runs about 300, but if you're like me and have a full size lathe a pro duplicator runs about 650-700. Hence why I don't have one, maybe someday I'll find one lightly used for a good price.

[Dad 818]

Thanks all. Gonna keep saving $.01 for the Vega.

[jeffthechef]

just got the vega. prices ran from 225-300. i got mine for 249 p/up at tools-plus in waterbury ct. the 225 was from a place in tennessee, 300 is what woodcrafters was getting. fits on most midi lathes. fairly easy to install even for the mechanically challenged like myself! so far, i love it in combo with my jet.

[chrisjoe13]

Hey Bill.. here's a pic of my duplicator.. only cost $3. Works just fine and I know you have plenty of time on your hands! Hope everything goes well at under the knife today.

[Dad 818]

Christian, hopefully not too much time! Can't wait to get back to work.