Wood Turning - Robert Sorby Sovereign Ultima Review

[@sodacan1011111111111]

Your a good man Mike. Thank you for all you do for our community.

[@MikeWaldt]

Thank you Mr. Renegade, just doing what I love to do my friend. take care Mike

[@ArcticFlies56]

Mike, I've always found your videos to be informative and I believe you to be a very honest person that does his best to enlighten viewers. There will always be the negative people that have nothing better to do then be negative on just about everything. To those people I say have a nice day and good luck to you. I have personally used the Sorby tools and find all of them to be excellent and well made. Yes they do have a learning curve but most things do. Best regards from across the pond. Richard ...

[@MikeWaldt]

Hi Richard, and thank you very much for your supportive words, you can't please everyone...of that there is no doubt. Take care Mike

[@stephenmcfadyen1385]

Mike, what a great review, no holds barred. the thing has more moving parts than I do, you capably show what the tool can do I am looking fr a decent hollowing tool and have been for some time as there are so many versions out there, I think that I will give this one a go. Thanks for your honest appraisal. Cheers Steve

[@MikeWaldt]

Hi Jim, it is a capable tool...but sadly I just couldn't get comfortable with it after much practice, so I'm getting rid, and moving on...not the tool just me I think. Cheers Mike

[@alansimpson596]

Thank you Mike for your review.. I was at a trade demo a couple of years ago and decided I deserved a reward for all my efforts at wood turning and bought the Ultima. It's a great tool. At the beginning I bit too deeply with it but as with any other tool there is a learning curve. I wouldn't pay too much attention to the few people who have a "snipe" at you. Given the number of subscribers you have and the very high esteem in which you are held you are bound to attract such comments. Some people just can't cope with the success of others so just ignore the b******s. I have many pieces of turning equipment similar to yours and some I bought before you reviewed them and others after. When buying my table saw I didn't agonise too much over which one to get and simply followed your review and couldn't be more pleased with it. To change the subject and refer to your other passion of growing chives this seems to be a good year for them so you should have quite a crop to bring in:-). Best wishes, Alan.

[@MikeWaldt]

Thank YOU Alan for your stalwart support, as ever mate, I really appreciate it. I have to say I am struggling a bit with mastering this tool. If I don't get the hang of it soon I'll be looking for an alternative, maybe it just doesn't suite my turning style, nevertheless it's extremely well made, solid etc. etc......we shall see. As far as the chives are concerned i'm hoping for bumper crops this year ;) Take care Mike

[@gunterschone8402]

Beautiful Video Mike. Thanks for the very detailed explanations and demonstration.

[@MikeWaldt]

Thank you, and my pleasure Gunter. Take care Mike

[@Bramsshed1913]

Great review and demonstration Mike ! for people such as myself who have come into woodturning at a very late stage, your reviews are invaluable as to the best tools for the job to purchase .Take care mate, Bram

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks Bram...on this occasion I have decided that this is NOT the tool for me personally. So another system will be practised with, and reviewed in a few weeks, when this one goes on eBay! Cheers mate Mike

[@magpie0854]

thank's for this technical demonstration; I love the storage of your workshop is an example to follow ... Fabrice

[@MikeWaldt]

Thank you Fabrice Take care Mike

[@pjbaddict]

Great review Mike and really good tip about using the modular toolpost as the handle, I've got an old 3/4 one that's about to be repurposed as a steadying handle... Cheers

[@pjbaddict]

As an aside, the ultima is also a great tool for hogging out the centre of bowls

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks Glyn...alas I am moving to another system, as I cannot get this to do what I want it to, just not for me...but still a quality piece of kit. Cheers Mike

[@OliverswoodturningCoUk]

Thanks for the shout out Mike glad you like the tool, I found that once I found the angle that I like to cut at I liked I positioned the handle so that the screws in the handle pointed to 12 o'clock with the cutting head where I wanted it this way I could see that the cutting head was in the correct position every time. Hope that makes sence. All the best Ed

[@MikeWaldt]

My pleasure Ed, thanks also for the tip...but you know by now what the score is ;) Take care mate Mike

[@johnpbh]

Thanks for the review. I am much more of a novice than you are and am contemplating getting this system. Your review has definitely helped me make my decision. Ta

[@MikeWaldt]

My pleasure Cheers Mike

[@yuvallahav]

Took me a while to start catching up again Mike. Lovely review, I have the same system, had for a year now, didn't use it even once... yet... :) I was planing to turn some large hollow forms but never gotten around to do it... Good call on the using the tool rest stock as a handle!! :) Thank you for taking the time to show us all the bits and pieces, it will sure to help me when I'll start using mine. Yuval.

[@MikeWaldt]

Hi Yuval, and thank you. I have to say I finally sold it and have a different system now, as I couldn't get "in the groove" with it. All will soon be revealed...lol Take care my friend Mike PS - I have to be at one with my hollowing tool...as I have some special Olive Wood I don't want to mess up ;)

[@KE4YAL]

Great video Mike you make it look so easy wish could make shavings like that maybe I can put that tool on my wish list

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks Jerry, it sure cuts well, almost too well, I'm having trouble getting the technique for smooth cuts...hopefully I'll get there...if not...I'll move on...lol Cheers Mike

[@TheLittleGardenShedWorkshop]

Hi Mike, thanks for showing and sharing your thoughts on the Robert Sorby Hollowing system. It looks like a very impressive tool, hope you're keeping well, Best wishes Harry.

[@MikeWaldt]

Hi Harry, and thank you mate. On this occasion I've been beaten...I can't get to feel happy using it, so it's going. Another one to replace it is on the way. Take care Mike

[@brianwolfe6678]

A good review with very useful information. I don't do any hollow forms as I sell what I make and sales have been keeping up with my modest production. However, who knows what the future will bring; whatever it brings I can now proceed well armed with your shared information. By the way I think your honesty is beyond reproach. Regards Brian

[@MikeWaldt]

Hi Brian, and thank you. In fact I am selling this tool, as it doesn't suit my style, however a new system will be tried out, and another, yes another damned review will be forthcoming in a few weeks...lol Take care Mike

[@WoodsleeSummercraftwoodturning]

Looks like a great tool. I'll put it on the wish list. Well demonstrated Cheers Mike Rob

[@MikeWaldt]

It's a great piece of kit, but I'm still trying to tame it :) Thanks as always for watching and commenting Rob. Take care mate Mike

[@WoodsleeSummercraftwoodturning]

I've actually managed to find some spare parts that might make me a good similar hollowing tool, all stainless steel, with a swivel knuckle head 😝, I will need to do a fair bit of grinding to attach the carbide tip, but it's worth a go. Again great demonstration Mike. Cheers Rob

[@MrSkeeter18]

Thanks mike for that review. Been going to by a hollowed. You sold me on this one. Thanks for sharing. Bob

[@MikeWaldt]

Hi Bob, and thank you...my final thoughts are still in the balance, as I'm finding it hard to control smoothly...not the tools fault...just me I think Take care Mike

[@michaelwright6943]

Thank you Mike. Good vid with some excellent tips and pointers.

[@KostasAnnikasDeftereos]

I totally can understand you Mike !!! i have spend all of my money to buy tools but every time i do 90% of my work with mine handmade tools! i don't like skew chisel ! but i can't tell to no-one not to get it because the 99% of woodturners use the skew chisel !!! thanks a lot for the review!!

[@MikeWaldt]

Glad you agree Kostas :) Cheers Mike

[@gcottee]

thanks for the review Mike ,certainly puts this at top of my want list ,take care garry

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks for watching Garry...but hold fire with that list! I'm changing the system, as this was not what I was looking for in the end. Take care Mike

[@MARKBaid]

That's pretty cool Mike. I just built a hollowing tool. I'm getting the tip or cutters refined and that "business end" just maybe the answer to my issues. Thanks for the video it's a great help. Take care my friend and do a kindness Mark

[@MikeWaldt]

Hi mark, and thank you, hopefully it was of a little help in your quest for a "perfect" shop made tool :) Take care my friend Mike

[@tomdoyle7958]

hi Mike would you think about doing a review and demo on the Robert Sorby Turnmaster

[@MikeWaldt]

Hi Tommy, I'm afraid not mate, as I haven't got one :) Thanks for asking though. Cheers Mike

[@johnhorsfall3281]

Hi Mike I use the woodcut tool of similar design. What is your tool like on cutting dry wood as you only showed it on green wood .

[@MikeWaldt]

Hi John, I haven't tried dry wood, and won't be now as I'm going for a different tool(s), but I understand it curs well on dry wood also. Cheers Mike

[@YTcustomchris]

Seem to have a bit of chatter to it or was that the guard rubbing? It dose look like it would make those impossible to sand projects turn out better as far a hallowing goes .

[@MikeWaldt]

Hi Chris, still trying to get the upper hand on this tool, it cuts like crazy, but taming it is a bit harder :) Cheers Mike

[@JimG31547]

Hi Mike, I thought your review was a very good review along with the demo. I appreciate the complete review and your feelings on the tool. By the way I like the beard too. Thanks for taking your time to video the review and share with everyone. Jim

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks James, still coming to grips with it...and the beard lol Take care Mike

[@Cadwaladr]

I'm not much of a turner, I did a little turning in school, but I don't have a lathe at home. I am a bit of a woodworker though, and I've got some Sorby woodworking chisels and a couple of framing mortice chisels. What I'm wondering about this tool is what the cutting edge is; is it steel or carbide? To me the Sorby brand seems to be about being made of really good steel. And having nice handles, which mine do, though some of the brass ferrules have cracked and fallen off. Anyway, I think I'd be a bit disappointed if they put a carbide cutter on this one.

[@MikeWaldt]

Hello, and thanks for your comment, it is in fact an HSS cutter, not carbide, so you can rest easy :) Take care Mike

[@cunningstunts3329]

Many thanks Mike. The Hope Sanding system goes on my Xmas list! I've been using the Chestnut Wood Wax 22 and what a great product it is. I've also been using their Friction Polish and found it to be excellent.

[@MikeWaldt]

Glad to be of service Graham :) Cheers Mike

[@paulweis9797]

Hi Mike. This comes in handy as I purchased the same off Oliver's in Coventry (amongst many other gimmics :) ). Funny though, there was no handle with it. Is it sold separately?

[@MikeWaldt]

Hi Paul, the handle is an extra mate. I finally decided to try another tool, as I can't quite get this to do as I want. Just me though...not the tools fault at all. Take care Mike

[@paulweis9797]

Mike Waldt Hi Mike. Thanks for this. Before I might get the handle, I still have to try the hollowing thingy. I also took the bowl gouge flute as an extra insert. That I like so far. In terms of turning, well time is limited as I have work around the house I need to get done first and this saturday, finally, electrics in the workshop. Yay... about time there too... Cheers. Paul

[@gilgrace1915]

Is changing the angle of the cutter the only way to achieve a fine cut or can the blade guard adjust to an extremely fine cut for finishing? Also what is the diameter of the tool bar as that could create some chatter near the bottom of deep vessels. Oh yes, one more thing...you'd better hurry if you're going to do the Santa thing this year.;-D

[@MikeWaldt]

Hi Gil, I have finally given up with this tool, even though it is well made and balanced. A different system will be tried and tested soon, so watch this space mate :) Cheers Mike

[@BlindWoodTurner]

Hi Mike !! The Ultima system sounds like a serious bit of kit.Thanks for sharing your findings with us my old mucka !! Take care and say hi to Mu for me. Chris.

[@MikeWaldt]

Hi Chris, and thanks mate. Take care Mike PS - Have you made any mistakes yet????

[@BlindWoodTurner]

Lots !!!!

[@michaelflynn6178]

good review Mike

[@MikeWaldt]

Thank you Michael. Cheers Mike

[@awldune]

How would you compare this tool with the Hollowing King? The "outrigger" on the HK appeals to me but clearly this tool works well, too.

[@MikeWaldt]

The HK was more stable without a doubt, in fact I'm moving on to something else, in my quest to find a suitable replacement :) Take care Mikw

[@awldune]

Mike Waldt You say replacement, what happened to your HK?

[@flippingize]

thanks good review from nz regards Brian

[@ArkansasVapergmailcom]

Gotta respect a man with integrity....😉

[@MikeWaldt]

Lol...then I demand no respect my friend. Take care Mike

[@murraylowe8677]

There seems to be quite a bit of chatter with that tool which would cause wash board marks in your turning. I imagine it would be compounded as the tool is extended because of the light duty bar which holds the cutter. But it is a very interesting concept.

[@MikeWaldt]

Hi Murray, thanks for your comment. I am actually going to try a different system, as this is not for me. Take care Mike

[@shearsjamie]

Great review Mike I regret getting the big brother now...

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks Jamie...watch this space mate...I couldn't get on with this, so a different system is on the cards soon. Cheers Mike

[@rodjewell5138]

Hey Mike, thanks so much for taking time to share. My question for you is: I think I noticed significant downward torquing when working on the side of the piece? If this is true would it be improved by having the tool shaft flat like some of the other R Sorby hollowers? Perhaps there is no torquing?? Thanks again for all your sharing I don't always take time to click the like button but I love all the videos you post :) Have you had any catches that would be piece destroying?

[@MikeWaldt]

Hi Rod, suffice it to say I am selling the tool and moving on mate, great build quality..but just not for me. The new system will hopefully be more in line with what I am looking for. Trial and error is part of the fun...so they say ;) Take care Mike

[@JimsonMakes]

Beardtastic review Mike. This tool was already on my wish list, just need to get some funds together ! I have big hands and I would probably make a wooden sleeve to glue over the stabiliser handle. I think it would make it more comfortable ( I don't think the handle needs the knurling !) cheers mate, Jim

[@MikeWaldt]

Lol Jim, and thank you ...I think!. I agree with what you say about the handle too, but I had a hard time getting used to it...so I'm selling it now, and trying a different system soon :) Cheers Mike

[@kennelson7591]

Very informative review Mike it looks quite a hairy beast when hollowing but effective I can see, have you ever reviewed the turnmaster tools yet? That would be useful, as I’ve only seen Robert Sorby videos so they are very biased towards there own tools. Thanks for sharing your review....

[@MikeWaldt]

Hi Ken, I eventually sold this tool, as it just didn't suit my style of turning. I have never used a turnmaster, but now I use Simon Hope tools both for normal spindle and bowl work, and his carbide hollowing tools, and find them excellent for me. Hope this helps. Cheers Mike

[@baconsoda]

That seems like a fair assessment of the tool. I am looking at these type of tools so a review like this is very helpful. You suit a beard. Best Wishes, Brendan.

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks Brendan, but hold fire mate, not keeping it now, it doesn't suit my turning style...if you can say I have one...lol. Take care mate Mike

[@Supershineshop]

Another great video mike whats with the beard you in Panto this year or are you being santa this year if so can I have the Sorby hollowing tool in my Christmas Stocking

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks Dave, and you guessed it...my future in Panto awaits ;) You can have this very tool if you visit eBay, as I'm selling it...not the tools fault I suspect...just doesn't suit me personally. Take care Mike

[@richardcoyle8091]

Very informative video on the hollowing tool. Looks like it can be very aggressive. 'Stay safe and well.

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks Richard Cheers Mike

[@DropbearWoodworks]

G'day Mike. As usual your reviews are fair and impartial. I always take more notice of blokes who use the tools they're reviewing than the ones who use them as wall decorations. I'd have to say I'd pass on this one. I use the Sorby Hollow Master as well as the Sorby Midi Multi Tip tools. I really like the flat sided shaft on these tools which I find gives a lot more stability than round bar especially when you have so much tool overhanging the tool rest. I'm not surprised you moved this tool on. Hope all is well mate. Glen

[@MikeWaldt]

Hi Glen, the points you make are very valid mate. The Ultima is a well made and quality tool, but I couldn't get to "feel at home" with it, so rather than flog a dead horse I decided to move on :). Thanks for watching and commenting mate. Take care Mike

[@crood1954]

Not in the market but enjoyed the review never the less. Good Job

[@MikeWaldt]

Thank you for watching. Take care Mike

[@ZOEng99]

nice new opening clip

[@MikeWaldt]

Thank you Peter Cheers Mike

[@cunningstunts3329]

Hi Mike. Great video. I've been looking at that system and wondered what it could do. Have you tried the Hope Turning Sanding System? Regards Graham. PS still having a love affair with my new lathe!

[@MikeWaldt]

Hi Graham, I am not keeping this tool now, as I had trouble feeling comfortable with it...so a new system is on the horizon. Yes I have the Hope sanding system, and it is really good, in my opinion. Cheers Mike

[@ErikAnderson1]

I really like my Lyle Jamieson Hollowing tool and if you get a chance give it a try! This looks good but I think at about 9 to 10 inches you would start having a real hard time with it due to flex and vibration! I like the new Handle and I like Jimsons stuff Jim and his comment about a wooden sleve for the Aluminum handle because those steel threads are bound to strip out the aluminum ones real soon so be careful. I just had that happen on some aluminum tube we were threading on steel flanges and it sucked. Nice review and I like the beardish thing! Much love from across the pond and be well my Friend!!!

[@MikeWaldt]

It is a good system by all accounts Erik, and I take your comment on board re the handle. It is not really an issue now, as I am selling this tool, and going for a different system. Take care my friend Mike

[@ErikAnderson1]

Thanks for the update sorry I rarely check my G+ I guess I better start

[@walshjp17]

Nice review, Mike. Like the new hirsute you. Welcome to the fuzzy faced turners club.

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks John...on both counts mate...and thanks for the welcome! Cheers Mike

[@IanMaude]

Great review Mike! I would have to buy a new shed to use one of those though :). Hopefully one day! The beard is great. Get a haircut and we could be twins 😎

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks Ian...I'm ploughing on with the practice. a huge LOL re the haircut... Cheers Bro ;) Mike

[@alx252]

Mike Waldt ... becoming 10 years older in just a few weeks ;)

[@wotstaylor]

good honest review Mike, stand a bit closer to the razor next time mate lol.thanks for sharing.

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks Brian...the trouble is mate I'm afraid of sharp objects...lol Cheers Mike

[@kjellobrun6800]

great review! Now I love my Munro even more :)

[@MikeWaldt]

Lol Kjell...glad to be of service ;) Cheers Mike

[@martkt10]

Hi Mike, is the cutting edge a carbide edge ?

[@MikeWaldt]

+martkt10 Hi Mart, yes it is. Cheers Mine

[@martkt10]

Help! Mike i want to use carbide tools, but can't make my mind up on either the TurnMaster by Robert Sorby or the Standard set by Glen Teagle , what would your opinion be ? Many Thanks Mart

[@MikeWaldt]

Hi Mart, if you are going down the carbide route, then I would suggest Glen's tools, as they are extremely well made, and excellent value for money as well. I have to add that I have never used the Turnmaster, so can't make a direct comparison. When I used carbide, I found that glen's were brilliant...I now mainly use traditional tools for "general" turning, but use carbide for hollow forms and the like. Hope this helps Cheers Mike PS - Sorry for the late response :)

[@martkt10]

Thank you for your wisdom as you are one of the best turner's I have seen and it's you that has inspired me to take up the hobby, I hope to go on a course in Alton the black dog place, just can't make my mind up on a lathe probably be a charnwood I know people don't like them but we aren't all million airs

[@glockmeister1213]

That's a nice lathe behind you, whats the brand?

[@MikeWaldt]

It's the Axminster AT 1628 VS. Cheers Mike

[@glockmeister1213]

Mike Waldt thank you

[@woodturningwithowen9216]

Hey Mike, great review and footage. What camera are you using please Owen

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks Owen, I use the Canon G1X, and have for the past four years or so. Cheers Mike

[@alanrouse8301]

Really nice tool. Will look into getting one. One question. Are you going to be in the running for being a "Live" "Christmas Man" this year? LOL

[@MikeWaldt]

Hi Alan, it is a great tool...but I've decided to try a different system...will keep you posted :) Take care Mike PS - My Christmas Man bookings are going through the roof my friend...lol

[@CarlJacobson]

If I send you a FREE razer will you do a review on it PLEASE!! It doesn't even have to be a good review.......LOL Seriously it looks like a great tool mate. Take care my friend, Carl

[@MikeWaldt]

Lol...thanks Carl you're a true friend... I think...lol ;) Cheers mate Mike

[@SuperBowser87]

Holy crap you sold your razor to buy wood. You need help! BTW what kind of finish do you use?

[@MikeWaldt]

Hi Tom, I'd sell my dog (if I had one) to get wood mate, and I can't remember what the finish is now ;) Take care Mike

[@SuperBowser87]

+Mike Waldt I would get rid of a dog that eats instruction sheets for sure.

[@andyvan5692]

good review, by the way R. Sorby probably made the side handle that size because the handle size you put on it makes the whole tool look like a bobby's (policeman's) baton!, and hence everyone ( including Sorby themselves) would have some problems shipping this tool ( customs might nick it, claiming it as a concealed/prohibited weapon :-) ) and arrest the person carting it.

[@MikeWaldt]

Thank you Andy, and that sounds true mate, given our security measures now :) Cheers Mike

[@joescarborough1]

There's something different about you which I can't put my finger on. You seem a jot more professorial. . . or something. Here's a suggestion from another viewer who doesn't have any hands on experience with the tool: As you are developing your relationship with this tool, try using a pull cut from the center out like the Sorby demonstrators I have seen suggest. Could be the quality of cuts will improve. I don't think they would use that technique in a sales presentation if there wasn't some reason. Keep practicing and give us an update when you perfect YOUR method. Thanks for an honest review and novice's demonstration. Skål, --Joe

[@MikeWaldt]

Hi Joe...you are very observant my friend...lol Thanks for the suggestion, but I did use that method soon after the video, and things did improve, but I have decided to sell it and try a different system...will be a review in a few weeks, hopefully a tool that will stay with me :) Take care Mike

[@GordonRock1]

Nice review, Mike. It's a good thing I'm quite accustomed to being poor. Your reviews can get expensive!!! ;-) Take care, Mike, .....Gord

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks Gord....and a big LOL mate. Take care Mike

[@NineteenSeventy0ne]

Great review and video as always, if you grow that majestic beard out you'll pick up the nick name "The Gandalf Of Wood Turning" lol .. Regards Pete

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks Pete, and lol to your second comment :) Take care Mike

[@2701peterb]

Dont like the beard Mike, But I do like your channel

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks Peter...I'm not 100% sure about the beard either mate, but maybe it will grow on me in time ;) Take care Mike

[@preacherjon7311]

If you are not going to give a bad review, after useing a product. Just wont do it, then why do I really need you out there doing any reviews. You could just pick of the tool and say here is one I use. And leave it at that.

[@MikeWaldt]

+Preacher Jon I just don't see the point in slating a product just because "I" dont like it Jon, I'd rather pass on good findings of a product I like, so that others can give it real consideration...I did say that the handle is rubbish though ;) Cheers Mike

[@SuperBowser87]

FIRST SECTION: : A one man operation invented a tool in his basement. He has sunk his life savings into patent and materials to build product. He is selling a few and it's looking like his product is going to be a hit with turners. He starts making money. Him and his family have lived in poverty for many years now things start to get better. Kids have clean clothes and shoes without holes in the bottom. They are being fed properly for the first time in there life. Things are great. He sends Mikey a tool to review. Mikey gets tool but little does he know his dog ate the instruction sheet. Mikey has no idea instructions were in the box. Mikey is aggravated because he does not know how to use tool properly because of the missing instruction sheet. Mikey gives very bad review because his dog ate the instructions. GO TO 2nd PARAGRAPH PLEASE

[@SuperBowser87]

2ND SECTION: Turners see that Mikey gave a 4 skew down review. He says he really hates the tool. The instruction sheet is now a pile of poo in the backyard. The inventors sales come to a screeching halt. People who bought the tools send tools back for a full refund. The inventors operation has cost the inventor everything he owns. One of the inventors children look at him with tears in his eyes and says " daddy why are we poor again"? Inventor has nervous breakdown and can't take it anymore. He goes to his workshop and takes his life. This happened because of Mikey, his dog and a pile of poo. I think that's a good reason not to give bad reviews.

[@MikeWaldt]

Lol Tom :) :)

[@MikeWaldt]

Lol even louder Tom :) :) :) :)