Carbide Wood Turning Tool Set of 5 Mid Size Tools PLUS Interchangeable Handle (Sapphire Blue Handle), USA Made

I just got my first lathe (a "mini") and am trying to learn turning from videos and books. I thought that I'd start with pens, and would avoid the challenges of always having to sharpen HSS. So, I got a kit of tiny "pen turning tools." It quickly became obvious, even to me, that they were going to be inadequate (too short and light) for anything much larger than a pen. So, that is when I ordered this Simple set (trying to "stick my toe in the water" and be a bit fiscally conservative). Upon their arrival, I practiced with every one except the round, edged finisher which still intimidates me a little. These tools are very stable and easy to handle. I appreciated the weight of the all aluminum handle. I felt that it gave me plenty of control. It is easy to swap the tools in the single supplied handle with two Allen set screws, but I soon realized that was going to start to "get old" fast! So, I went directly to the Harrison Specialties web site and ordered four more handles of DIFFERENT COLORS from them. Now, my tools are "color coded" and it is easy to grab the one I want. The square head cutter that is turned at a 45 degree angle is great for getting inside a hollow. The one thing that I might like to see is a "square radius" (i.e., a slightly rounded square cutter). I anticipate that these are "lifetime" tools, and I am thrilled to have them.

I rediscovered my lathe a couple of years ago because of cheaper carbide tools. This year i bought a new bigger lathe and I invested in the Simple 5 piece midsize set and instantly i became a better turner. I used the handle that came with the set to make handles for the rest to include the carbide parting tool. Pro quality and I will continue to buy from Harrison Specialties for all my turning tool needs and wants.

Well, all I can say is there is nothing better than a sharp tool on a lathe. I took one of the other reviewers advise and fashioned my own handles as you can see in my pictures. I found a cheaper and easier way to do it though, I went to the wood shop and picked out four old legs from a side table. I sawed and sanded them, drilled a hole, add glue...voila! Super easy and they work great. Highly recommended and next time I won't buy the handle.

This set is awesome, they make woodturning a joy again. I can even turn old dry live oak with stopping to resharpen every few minutes!

As advertised.

Works great. Great quality

"2nd best Christmas present ever!"That's saying alot considering his favorite Christmas present ever was a $4000 Martin guitar.

Great set of tools

As good as expected