I watched this video last night - sorry it took so long. I just want to point out that Rafan says at the beginning that he is making this video to show that you can turn a bowl with a spindle gouge because so many people say it can’t be done. He doesn’t say that this is his preferred tool, or that it’s the best tool for the job. He’s just showing that there aren’t any rules here.
Also please note that he’s making a 20 cm (7”) bowl here and doesn’t tell us what wood he’s using.
I am not dissing Richard Rafan, he has been a huge influence on my work. I think the most important lesson is in the presentation of the cutting edge (he mentions 45 degrees several times) whatever tool is in hand, and in the proper use of the bevel: the bevel should gently guide the cut and the pressure should be down on the tool rest to minimize vibration, not pressing the bevel into the work.
Also please note that he’s making a 20 cm (7”) bowl here and doesn’t tell us what wood he’s using.
I am not dissing Richard Rafan, he has been a huge influence on my work. I think the most important lesson is in the presentation of the cutting edge (he mentions 45 degrees several times) whatever tool is in hand, and in the proper use of the bevel: the bevel should gently guide the cut and the pressure should be down on the tool rest to minimize vibration, not pressing the bevel into the work.