Hey everyone,
A few days ago I asked about which tools to start with for wood turning since I am a beginner. Many people suggested going with carbide tools because they are easier to use, require less sharpening, and make the learning process more convenient. So I have been doing some research on Amazon and found a budget-friendly carbide tool set.
Before I go ahead and buy it, I wanted to ask if this kind of cheaper carbide option is actually good for a beginner, or if it is better to invest in a higher-quality set from the start. If anyone has experience, I would really appreciate your advice. Also, if you can recommend a good carbide tool (with a link if possible), that would help a lot.
These kind of posts are beginning to look like the product of a clickbot (or whatever they are called–shilling for affiliate links). I wonder if Ressil’s account has been infected…
You don’t have to but the most expensive tools, one thing to understand is the length of the tool is somewhat proportional to the diameter of the object being turned. This is why you will see “pen”turning tools much shorter vs a much longer tool that would turn a table leg for example. You can use the shorter length tools on on larger diameter objects, the shear angle is greater on larger diameters and this will put more load on the tool which you have to be careful with a short handle.
Carbide is carbide but there are better and worse grades. The cheap Chinese tools will work but make sure you know what size carbide inserts they use and get a few when you buy the tools. The cheap carbide tools are just that. They will work.
I would suggest you see if there is a turning club near you. You will get some real life experience and advise. The American Association of Woodturners (AAW) https://www.woodturner.org/Woodturner/Woodturner/AAW-Main-Homepage.aspx lists affiliated clubs that may be near you. You dont have to join but you will learn faster with some help.
When you begin turning most people turn too slow. Spindle projects should turn around 2000 RPM. Bowls and larger items 600-1000 depending on size and shape. Be sure to wear a face shield because things do come loose and start flying. Plus the chips will fly. When beginning you tend to get more catches and that can lead to the object coming off the lathe.
