Pat Riley
Jack,

I have used brass for all of my ferrules. I typically use brass plumbing nipples. I usually buy a few, cut them to approximate length, then stuff them in a box to use as needed.

They work great because they are fairly thick and can be tapered while on the lathe. I do the heavy work with files, then the final tune using regular old lathe tools. This way the blend into the wood is perfect.

It also ages very well. The rasps and some of the drivers in the picture I did almost 20 years ago. The draw knife and 6-in-1 screwdriver I did last week.

I'd be happy to answer any questions.

Pat