Carbide inserts how many spares and price versus quality

[BGHansen]

I've had good luck with import GTN 2, 3 and 4's. I usually drop into back gear and slow things down, see nice curly-Q's on the bits.

That being said, have had very good success with a tapered-sided HSS blade too and use it on open spindle.

Sounds like from your use you will be well served to pick up 10 imports.

Bruce