Matrix's recent activity

  1. Comment on Sony backed down from the PSN requirement to play Helldivers 2. How will this change how the community reacts to game changes? in ~games

    Matrix
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    I was not optimistic that the reaction of the community would change Sony's decision, but it seems that the out pour has worked. The next question is how far will people take these "review bomb"...

    I was not optimistic that the reaction of the community would change Sony's decision, but it seems that the out pour has worked. The next question is how far will people take these "review bomb" protests? I am afraid that any changes to games that some players don't like are going to turn into echo chambers and reviews are going to be unreliable. For example Star Citizen is about to implement a new flight system called Master Modes. The community is pretty split on the topic, but it is clear a large amount of players discussing the change have not played in the test servers and are just basing negative or positive comments on YouTube videos and comments others have left.

    8 votes

  3. Comment on Setting up a pen-turning workshop for my son — need advice! in ~hobbies

    Matrix
    Link
    Thank you for taking the time to type all that. Safety of a huge concern. It's honestly why I don't have a lathe in the shop already. When I got a table saw I ended up spending a few hundred extra...

    Thank you for taking the time to type all that. Safety of a huge concern. It's honestly why I don't have a lathe in the shop already. When I got a table saw I ended up spending a few hundred extra for a SawStop. It came down to how much are my fingers worth. If he ends up wanting to do this I was planning on bringing him to some classes at the local woodshop or somewhere like Woodcraft. I am 100% sure I have bad habits so I might take the safety classes with him.

    1 vote

  4. Comment on Setting up a pen-turning workshop for my son — need advice! in ~hobbies

    Matrix
    Link Parent
    Wow, that is a convenient kit! I watched the video, and it seems like having speed control is a big thing. I am sure swapping the belts over all the time is going to get old quickly. Thanks for...

    Wow, that is a convenient kit! I watched the video, and it seems like having speed control is a big thing. I am sure swapping the belts over all the time is going to get old quickly. Thanks for all the info.

    5 votes

  5. Comment on Setting up a pen-turning workshop for my son — need advice! in ~hobbies

    Matrix
    Link Parent
    Awesome, thanks for the info. I will have to look him up. Even project videos can give ideas on brands the pros are using.

    Awesome, thanks for the info. I will have to look him up. Even project videos can give ideas on brands the pros are using.

    5 votes

  6. Comment on Setting up a pen-turning workshop for my son — need advice! in ~hobbies

    Matrix
    Link Parent
    Thanks! Just trying to afford him the opportunity to get some lifelong skills.

    Thanks! Just trying to afford him the opportunity to get some lifelong skills.

    6 votes

  7. Setting up a pen-turning workshop for my son — need advice!

    ~hobbies Ask (advice)
    My son recently made a pen in his high school shop class and absolutely loved the process. With summer approaching, I've been toying with the idea of setting him up with his own pen-turning...

    My son recently made a pen in his high school shop class and absolutely loved the process. With summer approaching, I've been toying with the idea of setting him up with his own pen-turning station rather than the typical summer job route.
    Here’s where I could use your expertise:

    Lathe Choices: I'm looking at a couple of options from Harbor Freight—there’s a $300 model and a $550 variable speed one. How crucial is variable speed for a beginner? Would the basic model suffice for starting out, or is the upgrade worth it in the long run?

    Chisels: I don’t want to cut corners on quality, especially for cutting tools. Any recommendations for brands or specific tools that are good for beginners but can also handle more advanced projects as he improves?

    Essentials List: Besides the lathe, what are some must-have tools for pen turning? I already have the basics covered with a table saw, miter saw, dust collection system, and drill press.

    Learning Resources: Any favorite videos, books, or other resources that could help both of us learn more about pen turning would be greatly appreciated.

    I want to encourage him to sell them, but I'm also completely fine if they end up as Christmas gifts for the family. I’m excited to encourage my son’s new interest and would really appreciate your input on how to create a great setup for him. Thanks in advance for your help and suggestions!

    16 votes