Hi Chuck,
I would first like to express my heartfelt condolences on the loss of your dog. I feel blessed every day with my cats and understand you completely on your desire to show respect for your dog with your artisanship and the choice of wood.
The photographs I posted were found on the Web, I don’t have a steel snake, but will add my observations on what I have gathered from my search.
I think there are two areas of greatest importance to designing and using a steel snake; smooth movement of the joints, and stability of the tool’s arms. Let’s discuss both below:
This post from
Sawmill Creek discusses the importance of the bearings used in the joints. Personally, I think this is the most critical element. Without the lowest coefficient of friction at the joints, the tool will “jerk” and be hard to control. The post gives suggestions as to the choices of joint elements, I suggested Super High Density Polyethylene Plastic before, but that is a “work around”.
As to the material for the arms, I think you have a broader choice of materials, any of which will give you stability, which is what you are looking for. I have been very happy with
Speedy Metals for their prices, quick shipping, and customer service.
Holding the snake in the tailstock is a function of the shape of the distal end of the tool. Stan’s Elbotool clamps to the tailstock, a comment says a morse-taper attachment would be better, and I agree.
I should also point out the importance of a clean, smooth surface on your toolrest.
The following are other sites that sell or discuss the tool:
Stan Townend’s Elbotool
American Association of Woodturners forum
Chuck, With all that being said, is a steel snake the best, or only tool suitable for hollowing? I don’t think so. If you search Family Woodworking for
urn you may get some additional ideas or techniques that may be better choices.
I hope this discussion helps, please respond if I can add additional insight.
Frank