- Joined
- Jan 7, 2016
- Messages
- 3,279
Many folks on here like HSS steel cutters to get started, but I have mixed feelings about that approach. Certainly, HSS is far cheaper than insert cutters, but before using HSS they need to be sharpened. This can be as easy as a quick touch-up with a diamond stone, or as involved as shaping the entire cutter to fit your needs. But, you need to learn how to do that first.
I rarely use HSS anymore. After reading David's (Best) book on insert cutters, I have a much better understanding of what cutter needs to be used for a specific material and operation.
I learned early on not to buy cheap tools (any tool!). Buy once, cry once. I have started purchasing some items from https://www.maritool.com/ and other local US sources. There are Chinese inserts that are good for far less money, but it takes some vetting to narrow down a seller.
When it comes to measuring equipment, I highly recommend Mitutoyo from a reliable source. https://www.mscdirect.com/ and https://www.msi-viking.com/ are two reliable sources. Mitutoyo instruments found on eBay are almost certainly counterfeit unless it is a used one that is being sold.
Cutting fluids are where David and I diverge. I recently discovered Boelube products and have been very happy with them. I used some of the liquid on my metal bandsaw over the weekend and I felt it made a huge difference. Boelube does not discolor metal nor give off noxious fumes during the cutting process. I purchase mine from MSC Direct.
Hope this helps a little.
I rarely use HSS anymore. After reading David's (Best) book on insert cutters, I have a much better understanding of what cutter needs to be used for a specific material and operation.
I learned early on not to buy cheap tools (any tool!). Buy once, cry once. I have started purchasing some items from https://www.maritool.com/ and other local US sources. There are Chinese inserts that are good for far less money, but it takes some vetting to narrow down a seller.
When it comes to measuring equipment, I highly recommend Mitutoyo from a reliable source. https://www.mscdirect.com/ and https://www.msi-viking.com/ are two reliable sources. Mitutoyo instruments found on eBay are almost certainly counterfeit unless it is a used one that is being sold.
Cutting fluids are where David and I diverge. I recently discovered Boelube products and have been very happy with them. I used some of the liquid on my metal bandsaw over the weekend and I felt it made a huge difference. Boelube does not discolor metal nor give off noxious fumes during the cutting process. I purchase mine from MSC Direct.
Hope this helps a little.