I have gotten interesting responses to my posts about using carbide inserts.
"....difficult to get nice finish..."
"...difficult to make clean cuts....."
"...Carbide tools are just not going to get the job done...."
OK...exactly what is it about carbide inserts? I understand that a tool like a bowl gouge is quite different. However, there are other tools with similar geometry as the inserts. Is there real differences or is this a traditional versus new phenomena.
Just as a note...I do not intend to try to be an expert turner as some on the forum. I want to be able to turn some easy things to complement other woodworking such as a tool handle or simple turned box. I do not want to invest a lot of money in sharpening set up for turning tools but want to have sharp tools. Many of the frequent posters are great turners with a high level of expertise and their posts exhibit it. However, for those of us with lesser aspirations and capability, are the carbide inserts a good way of having sharp tools.
The answer for me is yes. I made a set of tools for less than $50 and they will stay sharp with almost no effort. I have used mine for turning several items and am happy with them.