Hey all. Had a purchase proposal for an updated mountmaking setup get approved last Summer when the DuoMite 54000 was sitting at $655usd. Now that the fiscal year has turned over and I'm going through making purchases I see that it is currently listed at $1,507usd ... So we're not going to be buying that. I know this is kind of the gold standard for a smaller bench stock bender, but does anyone know of any other potential options in the original price range that we could get a similar functionality out of? Thanks!
John Berner
Preparator
Chazen Museum of Art
Good question John!
I know this might be controversial: (The Duo Mite is certainly a great tool) but I often prefer to work with a good bench vise (with a few different types of bench jaw inserts), and a series of high quality pliers (parallel jaws, ring bending) and good hammers to form metal. I will let others share their experiences, but I typically find myself not using it as often as I thought I would.
It really is a matter of preference, as the Duo Mite offers consistency and regularity to metal forming. If your mount shop is also expected to mass produce parts from time to time, the Duo Mite may be worth the investment.
From what I have read, budget alternatives to the Duo Mite do not offer the finest results, with bends being out of square, inconsistent, etc...
Sorry I can't suggest a direct alternative, but: numerous vices and some quality hand tools -especially if kept organized and accessible- can be a lot more user friendly.
That's been my experience anyway!
Nick Clemens