Duplicator question
 

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!

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,

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.

Vega question
 

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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