Just got my first metal lathe and after receiving a set of index cutters decided to try to face a piece of 5/8 aluminum rod. Ever time I face it there ends up being a slight cone rather than a flat end. I am brand new at metal working (moving from wood to metal) and am thinking its pushing back during the operation causing a cone. Is this common and how do I counter it. As far as I can see there is no axis lock on the X axis. I would appreciate any help/suggestions any of you can throw at me.