Carbide cutter sharpening

[CMC75]

First off, today I found one of Mark's videos on turning and learned how to use the square cutter differently than I am using it now. Mark your videos are great for new turners like me, so thank you!

Secondly, I realize the cutter blades will last a while and you can also rotate them along the way but how often would you say you would sharpen a blade? Should I look into a diamond card sharpener for keeping the blades in good cutting shape? Thanks

 

[Mortalis]

Resharpening carbide inserts

 

[bugradx2]

I sharpened mine for a while but it didn't seem like they were quite as sharp as new ones. It's possible that may have been the guy doing the sharpening too. The video @Mortalis shared is a great example of how to sharpen the cutters.

Anymore, I will sharpen my cutters occasionally but usually just order a new cutter head. It gives me an excuse to get some M&M's from Exotic Blanks.

I do not personally know anyone who sharpens the negative rake cutters though.

 

[CMC75]

It gives me an excuse to get some M&M's from Exotic Blanks.

Haha I like the way you think!

 

[Woodchipper]

I sharpened mine for a while but it didn't seem like they were quite as sharp as new ones. It's possible that may have been the guy doing the sharpening too. The video @Mortalis shared is a great example of how to sharpen the cutters.

Anymore, I will sharpen my cutters occasionally but usually just order a new cutter head. It gives me an excuse to get some M&M's from Exotic Blanks.

I do not personally know anyone who sharpens the negative rake cutters though.

Mark Dreyer feels that rubbing the carbide on a fine surface only burnishes it. May get a couple extra hours from it. Recommends buying new carbide cutters.
Good idea, bugradx2. M&Ms are made here. Support the local economy.

 

[KenB259]

I resharpen all mine on a 600 grit diamond card. Always works for me and they feel and cut like new.

 

[Mortalis]

Resharpening is purely dependent on how much wear there is. I look at mine through a B&L microscope and I've seen the wear start to erode the relieved side. When that happens you're better off just replacing it.

 

[Woodchipper]

Resharpening is purely dependent on how much wear there is. I look at mine through a B&L microscope and I've seen the wear start to erode the relieved side. When that happens you're better off just replacing it.

Haven't used a microscope since 1971.