Bowl Coring with the Woodcut Bowl Coring System

Having used the Woodcut Bowl Coring System for several years, I want to share my insights and experiences with this versatile tool. I chose the Woodcut system over the Oneway Easy-Core System primarily due to its affordability, which makes it a more budget-friendly option for woodturners.

One of the standout benefits of this coring system is its efficiency. Most of my wood comes from firewood, downed trees, and driftwood, and this tool has allowed me to maximize my resources. Instead of just crafting one bowl from a blank, I can create multiple bowls while significantly reducing hollowing time.

Here are some tips and tricks I’ve picked up along the way:

Tips for Using the Woodcut Bowl Coring System

1. Go Slow and Be Gentle: The coring process can get quite noisy, so it’s important to proceed slowly and gently. If you press too hard on the lever, the cutter may dig in too deeply and come to a sudden, grinding halt. This not only disrupts your work but can also damage the motor, belts, and cutters.

2. Handle with Care: Exercise caution when inserting the laser pointer into the depth guide. The small button can easily detach, so make sure to insert it delicately.

3. Watch the Heat: During my initial attempts, I was too aggressive, which led to rapid wear on the carbide cutter after just six or seven bowls. Adjusting my technique has allowed me to successfully core over twenty bowls using the replacement cutter without issue.

4. Ideal RPMs: Running the lathe at around 200-240 RPM — sometimes even as low as 100 — has proven effective in minimizing heat buildup and extending the longevity of the carbide. This lower speed also lessens the impact of any potential catches.

5. Navigating Knots and Inclusions: Knots can be particularly challenging, often causing catches if not approached carefully. Engage the handle gently, as applying too much pressure can lead to complications.

6. Benefits of Green Wood: Coring through green wood has been a much smoother experience. The moisture content allows for easier scraping and reduces the amount of dust created during the process.

7. Dust Management: When working with dry wood, the amount of dust generated can be substantial. Be ready to position a hose to manage the dust effectively, as it may not align with the usual dust collection setups.

8. Blade Adjustments: The blades tend to be pushed down and may not always slide through their guides on the base smoothly. You might need to slightly adjust these guides to prevent pinching, ensuring an unobstructed cutting experience. Also, be sure everything else is tightened down so nothing slips under the pressure.

For more information about the Woodcut Bowl Coring System, check out the official of Woodcut Tools.

I’m eager to hear your own observations and experiences with the Woodcut Coring System. Feel free to share in the comments below!

Note: I am not affiliated with Woodcut Tools Limited, nor do I receive any compensation for this, or any other content related to their products.