Kelton Multi-Axis Scraper Review
Keith Fenton tests this new scraper
and finds that it provides the option
to remove both large quantities
of wood quickly whilst achieving
a fine finishing cut
This article first appeared in the British publication
Woodturning Magazine, January 2012. Reprinted here with their permission
The Kelton Multi-Axis Scraper
is a heavy-duty multi-purpose scraper that is designed to
be used in a variety of modes. The shaft is 22mm (7/8in) diameter and the tool length is 350mm
(14in). The head swivels, which combined with the adjustable rake angle and a rotating cutter,
allows you almost unlimited configurations in use. It is capable of negative-rake scraping, shear
scraping and working within hollow forms and deep bowls.
The main shaft and head assembly
are coated to resist corrosion, and the replaceable tip incorporates a top layer of a specially
formulated alloy that is designed to hold its edge well. The main shank has two machined flats as
well as a round portion along its length. The flats are angled so that the tool can be used between
left and right hands for shear scraping in either direction. The round portion of the shank allows
you to vary the angle of the tool tip as the work progresses.
In use
I used the scraper in two different situations. I firstly used it to achieve a ripple free finish on a wet
turned oak (Quercus robur) bowl and the second to take out the tooling marks on the inside of an elm
(Ulmus procera) vessel. In use the toolrest needs to be positioned sufficiently far enough back from
the workpiece so as to allow the head assembly and socket screws to avoid contact with the toolrest.
The tool can be used in either of two modes, that is with the cutter either above or below the
shaft. This is achieved by removing the cutter, turning it over, and reinserting the cap head
screw.
All my work was completed with the cutter in the low mode – under the shaft – as I
feel this provides maximum control and stability. The tool was used flat, slightly pointing downwards
within the oak bowl and with a gentle action, the timber was removed easily. I had no need to try a
sheer cut. The tool head can be rotated in relation to the shaft to achieve various scraping modes.
It is suggested that the tip should not be positioned at angles over 45 degrees as this
will increase the chances of a catch. On the outside I tried sheer scraping to blend the curve and
the cutter performed well. The rake angle of the cutter can be adjusted by loosening both the cap
screw and the side socket screw. The large screw holds the tip in the assembly whilst the side screw
holds the desired angle.
On the inside of the elm vessel, the cuts were very gentle and only
intended to remove remnants of the hollowing tool marks. Most of the work was conducted with the
cutter almost flat but rotated slightly downwards; the wood was fairly dry and again, the tool
performed well. The cutter was rotated in order to use only a small segment of the curve.
A further important adjustment is available as the cutter can be rotated to any position. This will
enable any radius to be reflected between the cutter and the work or simply just to expose a fresh
section of burr on the cutter. Adjustment is via the cap head screw that holds the cutter to the
carrier. When the degrees of rake and cutter angle are considered, the scraper is almost infinitely
configurable to achieve any angle or cut.
Verdict
My first and last impression when
picking up the tool was its sheer size, weight and mass. I found the tool bulk to be very
reassuring. The tool will provide the option to remove both large quantities of wood quickly whilst
achieving a fine finishing cut.
Score
Ease of use: 95%
Performance: 100%
Build quality: 100%
Second opinion – MARK BAKER
, Editor of
Woodturner magazine
I like the rigidity and the build quality of this tool. It can be used over a large distance and as Keith
says, there is minimal vibration even at the limits of its extreme reach. The cutter takes a very
keen edge and can be ground to suit your own preferred angle or shape. The edge seems to last a very
long time in use and is capable of agressive and refining cuts. All in all, a nice tool that does
what is says it should.
How to order the Kelton Multi-Axis Scraper
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