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first morta block
Posted: Sun Apr 20, 2014 6:52 am
by JDwood
I just purchased my first morta block from Vermont Freehand. It looks really dense. What should I expect when I start turning it? How does it differ from briar? Do most people sand blast it or finish smooth?
Re: first morta block
Posted: Sun Apr 20, 2014 8:45 am
by sandahlpipe
Turn with sharp tools and don't be afraid to re sharpen. Take small passes to avoid tearout. It's got normal wood grain compared with briar, which is burl, meaning grain direction does make a bigger difference. Most people will blast it, but it looks nice smooth.
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Re: first morta block
Posted: Sun Apr 20, 2014 11:06 am
by Jthompson1995
Also be aware that it is fairly brittle, especially compared to briar. Be careful when fitting the tenon as it will split easier than briar. DAMHIKT.
Re: first morta block
Posted: Sun Apr 20, 2014 8:25 pm
by JDwood
Sounds like you know from experience.
Re: first morta block
Posted: Sun Apr 20, 2014 8:43 pm
by sandahlpipe
I've split both shank and bowl on one pipe.
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