Where do we get material to make turning tools? I have tried files, large allen wrenches and HSS stock that I bought at a machine shop. Allen wrenches are easy to shape but don't hold an edge very long. Files hold edge longer but are very hard to shape. Machine tool stock seems to hold edge well and is easiest to shape, but getting a piece long enough is difficult. I buy unhandled tools because I get better steel and my handles are better (I think). I have some specialty tools that work well that I made but don't stay sharp very long.
Russ had some pretty strong ideas on how stuff should get done turning wood! Back when he wrote this article making your own carbide tools because not many makers or vendors selling them.
I have made a couple of special purpose turning tools from star drills that I found cheap at the flea market. It takes quite a bit of grinding to get two of the "fins" off. But, then, you have a fairly flat surface to make your cutting edge with. I didn't do any re-tempering.
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