Customer Reviews

PSI Woodworking CSC500K Barracuda Micro Key Lathe Chuck System

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I bought this because I wanted a small dia chuck that wouldn't mangle my fingers when working close to the headstock. I make small boxes, Xmas icecicles, etc. It does a fine job except the pin jaws mount with only one screw and there is a small amount of play in the mounting guides. This makes for a slightly out of round (less than 1/32) turning. Please note- I hold the piece by around 1/4" spigot. If I used something longer (1/2-3/4) it would probably stabilize itself.

Overall it is a nice chuck for small detail work. I'd buy it again.

I have two Nova Mercury minilathes and have been hesitant to use chucks weighing three pounds and more on them, but the 2 1/8 inch, 1 pound PSI Barracuda Microchuck meets my needs perfectly. The chuck is well-balanced and all the sets of jaws fit perfectly. I have used all three sets and am hard-pressed to find adequate expression for my satisfaction. This little fellow is an absolute gem. I do not plan to use it for large projects. I use the #2 jaws to grip 1X1 pieces up to 5 inches long when I make finials. The pin jaws are ideal for inside grip on small face turnings, and the step jaws are great for gripping small tenons. If you plan on larger work don't buy this chuck, but for miniwork on a minilathe there is nothing better on the market. I just ordered another because I hate to have to change jaws, but at this price I can afford two of them (maybe even three).

This is exactly the chuck system I have been looking for. I build model vehicles and the physical size of this chuck is perfect for my work. It is a very precision instrument. I am very pleased with it.