The Traditional Fisherman's Forum

Well I promised to share for those that are interested - so here is the progress from this mornings efforts.

I have never made anything on a metal lathe before, let alone machined aluminium so this is all a very steep learning curve!

I am happy to report there were no pyrotechnics or flaming swarf





My goodness, hacking out the line drum doesn't half create some swarf - I'm not sure how to get rid of it all

Parting a 4 inch billet of 6082T6 for the first time was also rather "interesting"

The next job on the drum will be hollowing the back out and a bit of profiling on the bottom skirt/lip.

I need to make some decisions yet about the backplate - I have some Sapele, Birds Eye Maple and American Cherry which have been seasoning in the loft for at least 3 years which would do the job. I think I will need to make up some samples to help me decide.

This project will take quite some time, so please don't expect particularly regular updates - I am learning each new skill or aspect of construction as I go along so it will take me a while. There are bound to be some unforseen technical challenges along the way too.

Cheers
Steve

Steve,

My order is in the post

John

No problem John - at my current rate delivery will be in about 10 years

Steve, that looks fantastic. I am happy your shop is still ok and the local fire department officers can enjoy their sunday pint rather than extinguishing a metal fire...
Keep us posted, please. Bobby

Looking brilliant especially if that's your first attempt
Pete

That is absolutely Brilliant Steve..

Well done indeed!

Excellent stuff Steve, keep it coming

I had a feeling it wouldn't be long before we saw a reel from you! Looks "reely" good so far and I have no doubt it'll be a fine piece of work when its completed. Look forward to your further updates with keen interest

That looks brilliant already.

Steve, your skills at turning your hand to a task amazes me, it looks great so far