The cutters supplied with these tools have been chosen for their ability to cut wood rather than scrape wood - unlike other carbide cutters more commonly used.  The dish shaped profile of the cutter enables this when it is presented at an angle to the wood blank.  These are not designed to be plunged straight in on the horizontal as with other flat faced carbide cutters i.e the square cutter. The cutter holds its edge longer than traditional HSS tools - BUT NOT FOREVER - many hours of turning can be achieved before it needs to be rotated and they are not a use it and throw away cutter as many will try to tell you. Contrary to belief they can be resharpened by gently honing with a diamond file. Replacement cutters are available when you eventually feel the need to replace.

I am frequently asked how long these cutters will last before needing to be replaced.  As with all tools this greatly depends on the use and type of wood being cut.  If you consider a router bit which has a carbide cutting edge as a comparison, you will no doubt know how long these will hold a sharp cutting edge and at the price these quality router bits can cost you would not use and just throw away.  A carbide insert is no different.

Square Chisel

The square cutter is a flat design with four cutting edges.  This enables you to rotate the cutter for a new sharp edge before having to resharpen or replace.  Having a flat design to this cutter it can be used for straight plunged cuts and is less likely to catch when used in this way.

STANDARD TYPE CUTTERS

The Standard type cutters are very easy to use having a flat profile. They can be used much the same as the square cutter with the bar held flat on the tool rest giving good control and stability when cutting. You can still roll the tool over on a 45 degree angle for shear cutting to give a cleaner finish to your piece.  These cutter hold there edge for a long time and are a joy to use on all types of wood and acrylic.