Faceplate Question

[crokett]

The Lathe I have came with the stock faceplate for turning face work. Ideally I want a jaw chuck but that will only happen after I've done a lot more turning. I am reading a book I got for Christmas by a guy named Richard Raffan and he recommends instead of the mutli-screw faceplate like I have to get one that has a center screw permanently mounted in it. He says this is more secure, but given two faceplates of equal size I can't see how one center screw would be more secure than 3 or 4. It would be more convenient though.

So should I bother looking for a center screw faceplate or stick with what I have?

[gerti]

1) Those center screws are big heavy threads, they work fine (my chuck came with one).

2) The Raffan books are OK, but please stay away from the videos. His practices are downright dangerous, and will only leave you frustrated.

3) Those normal face plates work just fine.

4) Do NOT use drywall screws, to brittle and not intended for side loads.

5) Learning wood turning from a book is almost impossible. At some point you want some help (and I recommend rather earlier than later, keeps the frustrations down). Go to the AAW web site and find a local chapter, guests are always welcome:

http://www.woodturner.org/