Pipe OD is slightly different than tubing OD. Since we're building cages from tubing, not pipe, you've got some issues.
Bend tubing in a pipe bender and you'll risk kinking the inside of the bends, as the 'shoe' doesn't fit the OD correctly. You can adjust for this by wrapping the tubing with old socks/shop towels/rancid boxer shorts/etc, but you'll probably ruin a bunch of tubing trying to get it right (experience speaking here...). It's possible, but this is a case where having the right tool makes a big difference.
So...the real key is finding the right size 'shoes' for the tube OD you're bending. If you can get them, then you're golden.
