Some Vega Questions

[Bob Thomas]

I know it has probably been beat to death but I can't find some answers in a search.

Thinking about getting a Vega for my Delta Midi lathe.

1. When you cut out a lure, is it just one pass and you're done (Saw salty do it on the pro series) or do you have to take several passes?

2. For patterns, just use wood or do you actually strap a full lure (not cut in half) on the duplicator?

3. Should I get the carbide or will HSS work. Want to do roughly 50 or so per off-season in AYC.

Thanks!

[J_T_R]

it usually takes me about 5-6 passes with the vega and carbide cutter kit that i got from a member here. i would definitely recommend that upgrade, as the HSS only lasts about 20 plugs before it needs to be honed. you can get about 125 plugs for each side of each carbide cutter, and at only 15 bucks for each additional insert i think it is definitely worth it. i like to use lexan for templates. there is a great how-to on another web site, but i'm not sure if i am allowed to post that here. basically you use the vega to trace the pattern on to a piece of lexan, then cut and sand and you will have a great template that will last longer than wood.

[Jigman]

I like to take a couple of shallow passes to knock the square down some, then go deeper. You can get something like 1/8 inch cuts after that. Last pass is also shallow. I also have the cutter that JTR mentioned. You are also on the other site that he mentioned for the how to on doing up a template (FAQ section, top thread). I have yet to use lexan for a template. I like to turn a body on the lathe, then use that as the template for the dup. If you are doing 100's of plugs, the lexan would definitely be the way to go.

Jigman

[ProfessorM]

I don't use that brand of dup. but I would suggest you save a 1/16 for the final pass so you get a nice smooth finish and less tear out and less sanding. If I am doing a bunch of plugs I rough all the plugs out to a 1/16 of finish size and take them out. Then I put them all back in and take my final pass. That is how I do everything at my job and find it works good in the wood too. I will also use a worn insert to rough all the plugs out and put in a sharp insert to do the finish passes. I am not a purist in wood turning and make my template first and then adjust the template to fit what I am looking for in the plug. Unless you are good at sharpening tools I would definetly suggest the carbide insert. P.