Yep.... Seriously!
I've had this ball turner for near 3 years now and never had to adjust it, just tighten checked it a couple of times.... Always been good
I made the base from a piece of 3/4" steel plate (once cleaned up it was thinner... I'll have to measure it).
It's a lot deeper than required in Steve's plans. hence the cutouts for the bolt holes. If you watch my videos you will see that a series of steps were cut into the front of the base plate too, so it missed the chuck!
However, I am interested in responses about my idea (even if it is negative).
I think it could have possible friction issues? it's such a large area to have metal to metal turning when force is being applied by the cut.
The shape you have chosen is very similar to a taper roller bearing. Some people have used them in their turners. I often wonder how long it is though till they have notchy cuts and have to replace/clean the bearings due to swarf ingress? Of course if there is a shoulder/guard or a very tight fitting turret then that might never happen?
Still, that's my wonderings and opinions, it may work wonderfully?
These are the things we must try for ourselves.... That's how I made my peck drill, and that works
Have fun, hope it all works out.
If you need it, I can help you set it up to cut a ball rather than an ogive (sure I've written that somewhere recently?)
Ralph.