Sharpening Carbide Cutters

[kooster]

I've read somewhere that it's possible to sharpen the carbide cutters on the Easy Wood Tools using a diamond file. Just wondering if anyone has done this and how effective it is. It's my understanding that carbide is extremely hard and once the edge is dulled, it's pretty much a matter of discard and move on. Any thoughts???

 

[pensbydesign]

i have tried useing a ef diamond file on the top flat side. it did work but not as good as new.

 

[randyrls]

I have some bits I have used for years!. I put them flat upside down on a diamond credit card style hone. Add a drop of water, and move in a figure eight pattern. Rotate 90 degrees, and repeat 3 more times. Dry the hone and bit. Takes about 2 minutes, tops. Don't use the kind with holes in it, the bit catches on the holes.

 

[Lenny]

I will often do as Randy recommends in order to keep a cutter going, however if I have an expensive blank to turn I will put on a new cutter!

 

[KenV]

A diamond lapping plate also helps. Looking at the edges of a new cutter vs a "rehoned" one under madnification showed me I was not getting an as new edge.

I estimate that I get about 70% of new. These are good for rough work, and use of a rehoned cutter can spare a good cutter when going into dirty wood or bark.

Still want a new/factory cutter for finish work.

 

[kooster]

Sounds like some very useful advice. Thanks so much.