Bending iron pipe size?

[polkat]

I've always cold bent, but recently I was given one of those charcoal igniters that some folks like to use to make homemade benders, so I thought I'd build one.

Building it will be no problem for me, but I got to wondering what size pipe to use. Considering the tight C bout bends, I was wondering if a 2-1/2" diameter would be too big. Any opinions? Thanks!

[~ Ben Conover]

Buy a new bending iron, it's easier.

[captainhook]

1" diameter is about the upper limit unless you're using an unusual model. I use a store-bought bending iron. It was sold as an "instant heat" curling iron. Cost me $8 new, adjustable temp with thermostat and heats up in one minute and 15 seconds.

[polkat]

Naw, I'll build this one. I've got all the parts except the pipe, and building one is no sweat.

Hi capt! Now that I think about it, I'm just going to build a few cornerless instruments, and then I'll probably quit making and concentrate on playing. The cornerless have far milder contures, so a wider pipe might work okay.

Thanks for the replies.