My Quorn

The photo shows a Quorn cutter grinder that I made some years ago.

You will note that I did not make the ball ended clamping leavers, instead

I used 5/16 BSF cap head screws with a suitable modified Allan Key

A very expedient decision, Bert

MichaelG.

Making the ball handles was the best bit.

Although they are awkward, cantankerous devices I wish I had not sold it in a period of austerity in my hobby fund

Stay well

Rod

As it happens I am currently building a Quorn Mk 3. Working on the spindle asssembly at the moment.

I'm wondering what to do about the ball handles. I don't mind making them but are they really more practcal than cap head screws operated by allen keys? Don't they just get in the way?

Use "locking levers" such as these from Axminster. Much more practical, you don't need to find the Allan key or mess around making custom washers so they lock in the right place.

I found the spindle the most challenging part of building my Mk2. I wouldn't be without some means of tool-free operation; today I would, as has been suggested, opt for adjustable handles (and split cotters rather than slit castings).

I only rarely find the ball handles get in the way.

The standard rotating base and associated ball handle has been removed to accommodate the large work piece.

My Quorn is only partly painted but I have chosen a colour rather like Roderick Jenkins's.

Any further comments on the (Hemingway) Mk3 would be welcome.

Yes, so much more practical, however, nowhere near as pretty as the original ball handles, and a Quorn needs to look pretty.

Unlike a utilitarian Stent or Kennet or Worden....

Great description from Rod, not heard that one before - cantankerous device - very apt.

And being a Stent owner, i actually do like the Quorn inc the OP's, sans handles.