r/turning • u/ittthelp • 2d ago

newbie Blanks and chucks questions

Just a few questions, I'm new to turning. I've ordered this Nova chuck set. I want to make small boxes like this, this seems like an easy method.

  • Could I use 2x2 blanks like these with 2" jaws or do you have to use 3x3 blanks? I don't know if the 2" jaws will be able to close enough to hold a tenon after rounding a 2x2.

  • Could I use the pin jaws to hold 2x2 blanks if the 2" jaws don't work? I can't tell if the interior of the pin jaws are meant to hold a tenon or not and I'm not sure how far they can expand. I don't want to cut mortises into the pieces I make.

I think the 2" jaws will work, this page says "Tenon Diameter: Min Cylinder 45mm (1 1/14), Max Cylinder 65mm (2 9/19). Min Square 40mm (1 9/16), Max Square 50mm (2”)." Does that mean it can hold onto tenons between 1 1/14" and 2 9/19" in diameter?

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u/BlueEmu 2d ago

Yes, that’s what it means and it should work for 2x2 blanks.

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u/ittthelp 2d ago

Thanks! Just curious, are they called 2" jaws because they can hold a 2" square piece of wood or is there some other reason?

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u/External_Switch_3732 2d ago

If memory serves, that 2” is closest to the size of the smallest mortise you can use them with. It should be noted that the more accurate measurement of the jaws is the 50mm, which is then converted to roughly 2 in for the sake of marketing the jaws in America (a lot of people here have no idea how big 50mm is)

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u/ittthelp 2d ago

Ah, makes sense. Thanks!