Holy cow, I finally did it. After a few years of making do with some pretty archaic workarounds, I finally closed my eyes, held my breath and made the big purchase. What I am talking about? I bought a Oneway Stronghold four-jaw chuck for my lathe. And not only that, but I got the extra #3 jaws as well.
It was far more money than I wanted to spend, and to be truthful, I could have purchased a less expensive version and likely have been well satisfied – but let me tell you, I couldn't be happier with the purchase. (I have my late father's voice echoing in my head: "Buy the best you can afford and you'll only cry once!") Well, I have to tell you, I am not crying at all. This tool works like a Swiss watch, and frankly, it is just cool to look at.
Now I know that this sort of indulgence is not for everyone; my heritage is Scottish, after all. But if you are looking for permission from someone to go out and get that new woodworking widget – consider this it!
I don't know about you, but I am planning to spend even more time in my shop this summer and I think the new chuck will be ready for a rest by the time the snow flies. But too bad! That is just the time for holiday gifts.
More turned bowls ... my family just can't wait!
Rob Johnstone, Woodworker's Journal
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