[erickejah (OP)]

I recently started to read a book about gyroscopes (Carl Machover), it is very interesting. I would like to understand the precession effect by experimenting with a real gyroscope. I have not had any luck finding one with google; mostly all the hits are about spinning tops.

Does anyone knows where I can get one? (two degree of freedom preferably(economic too))

Thanks

[CliffordK]

I suppose it would depend on your goals.
I'd recommend playing around with a bicycle wheel for a bit. 

I can remember that the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry had a device that you could stand on and spin with by tilting a gyroscope.  Cool device, but not too practical. 

Most gyroscopes in use would be components of other things such as aircraft controls.

There is a beautiful bronze torpedo gyroscope on E-Bay right now, although the seller doesn't list the size.  I'm guessing less than 6" tall.  Unfortunately, it also appears to be missing the drive mechanism.

[Geezer]

Yes - a bicycle wheel and a revolving office chair is a good way to go.

There's probably a demo on Youtube.

Here's one

[erickejah (OP)]

Thanks!!

[Soul Surfer]

Simple gyroscopes are available from science shops  and the very best toy shops.  You can also get ones designed for exercise purposes from sports shops ( look up gyrociser but not the hula hoop! )  I have one and the forces produced by this can be really impressive when you get it going fast.