Reamers

[Wawoodman]

From my reading, I understand that hand reamers (with the square end) are different from chucking reamers. The shape at the front end is different, to allow a straight start with the hand style. But beyond that, is there any practical difference? I don't see any reason that I can't (or shouldn't) chuck a hand reamer in a drill chuck or collet and use it under power. Am I missing something important?

[stevec]

Wa, I must admit, I have done power reaming with "hand" reamers, purists will say the tapered "lead-in" can give rise to chatter but I have found that the risk is lower than the dangers of misalignment possible in hand reaming. I use a slow speed when "power" reaming with a hand reamer that I would with a chucking reamer.

[EdK]

I have to agree with what Steve said. I've read that you should use a constant feed with reamers both feeding in and extracting out of the hole.

Ed

[Mayhem]

Never run them in reverse either when power or hand fed.

[bobm4360]

With a chucking reamer, the tapered lead is very short, and easy to get through the workpiece. Using a hand reamer, it has to go farther through the work and you might have clearance issues. DAMHIKT. Using a hand reamer in the lathe, I usually feed the reamer with a tailstock center, very slow, lotsa lube.

Regards,
Bob

[Wawoodman]

Thanks for the tips. I bought a box of large ones, up to about 1", back before I knew the difference. So at least I can give them a try.