wingnut720
Member
As I desired to give the "carbide" turning chisels a try some time ago, but was scared away by the price , I made my own. I made two "mid-size" chisels using 3/8" bar stock and the "name brand" replacement cutters. My $60 to $80 chisels cost me a whopping $18 to $20 each. After using them, and realizing they would forever be a part of my turning future, I decided to step up to the heavy duty 1/2" bar stock full-size chisels, and figured I would shop around a bit for alternate cutters . BEHOLD!!!! I struck pay dirt!!! AZ Carbide in Chandler, Arizona is my new carbide best friend. I ordered two 15mm square cutters, two 15mm R2 cutters, and one 16mm round cutter for my new projects. The square and radius cutters were less than $6 each and the round was less than $11!!!!!! What a savings, and they were shipped and received in two days for only $2 shipping (if my memory doesn't fade.) Believe me, the quality is absolutely amazing. They include a new screw for each cutter and come in a nice little plastic case for safekeeping. My new chisels, which would cost $80 to $140 each depending on the manufacturer, cost me a whopping $10 to $15 each...bar stock and cutters...and the handles were turned for free from scrap oak I had lying around. All you DIY chisel makers...check them out at www.azcarbide.com You won't be sorry!!!
