Dave Hoskins
Member
- Messages
- 5,252
- Location
- Parker County, Texas
I decided a bit ago that it was time to replace the 5/8" bowl gouge. 90% of my turning tools are by Hamlet, which I like a lot. Sharpen well, and stay sharp even turning bodark. I actually settled on them after trying Sorby, Crown, and Henry Taylor. All good tools no doubt. Well, my regular supplier was out of 5/8" Hamlets so I decided to experiment with a lower dollar tool. I remember some folks here talking about Benjamin's best tools and decided why not try one. So, I ordered the 5/8" bowl gouge. I even ordered it with the extra long handle. OK. Got here fine and on time. Wheee!!! New toy!!!! First discovery was it was so light I had to make sure it was in my hand. Second was the diameter. They seem to measure their sizes on the outside diameter, not the flute. So basically it's the same size as my Hamlet 1/2" gouge. But on the plus side the weight of the gouge could have advantages in some cases. It does cut fairly well. Just have to get used to the weight of it I suppose. But I think I will get another Hamlet as soon as they are back in stock. Anyway, after all the rambling it simply boils down to you get what you pay for. I paid less than half of what I pay for a 5/8" Hamlet and get less than half a 5/8" Hamlet. Oh, well. Here endeth the lesson such as it is.