Turning Tools

Turning chisels are available in a variety of styles and sizes which are specialized for different turning applications. For general purposes, we will describe the five basic types of chisels to get you started. There are a wide variety of other chisel configurations and tools for specialized applica- tions. We recommend you consult a good text on lathe turning to learn more.

The five general types of turning chisels are shown in Figure 23:

A. Gouge Chisel - a gouge can be recognized primarily by its curved or arced shape. The size of the arc and the type of grind across its cutting edge will determine the job it is best suited for. A roughing gouge is generally ground straight across the end and is used to get the initial round shape on the stock. A spindle gouge will be a bit lighter and will have the end ground semi-circular. They are used to achieve the convex or concave surfaces on the turning. They are available in different sizes measured as the distance across the blade, and will be noted as a shallow or deep flute.

B. Parting Tool - has a sharp point with bezels cut on the narrow edges of the blade. The cutting edge occurs on the blade portion where it is the thickest. The parting tool is

used to make a plunge cut by setting it on the tool rest and pushing it into the stock at a right angle. It can also be used to make deep grooves or to cut a finish piece off of the master blank. The size of a parting tool is measured as the thickness of the blade at its thickest point.

C. Spear Point - has a point formed by grinding two bezels ground onto the same surface of the blade at a 110˚ or less angle. It can used to form V shapes and for finishing corners. Available in a number of different sizes and angles, size is generally called out in the overall thickness of the blade and the angle.

D. Skew Chisel - has a point formed by grinding two bezels on each side of the wide blade, and the cutting edge is angled across the end of the blade. The skew is one of the most versatile turning tools, used for scraping, paring, smoothing and finishing cuts. Skews are measured across the blade width.

E. Round Nose - has a rounded cutting edge ground across the end of the blade. This chisel is used to form concave surfaces, grooves or cove shapes. Measurement is across the overall width of the blade, but the radius of the end is also generally called out.

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Figure 23. Five basic chisel types.

G1495 Heavy-Duty Wood Lathe

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