No screw holes to deal with, I have to add those myself, a chance to use my transfer screws.
I know very little of carbide, but what I have came with the lathe, a set of 1/2" holders made by H.B. Rouse. They have silver grey triangular inserts maybe 3/8" along each side. I don't know if these are good or cheap, but they say made in U.S.A. so guessing at the least they are not bottom of the barrel ebay specials.
On the surface finish, it seems I was just being too timid and taking too light of a cut. I cranked it up and by taking 2-3x deeper cuts I'm getting a nice shiny finish.
I've been able to spend very little time in the shop the past 8 or 9 months, but it is starting to come back to me.