Carbide Turning Tools VS Traditional Bowl Gouge HSS Video

Carbide Turning Tools VS Traditional Bowl Gouge HSS Video
Which is better carbide or traditional turning tools? That's a good question with a complicated answer. Carbide scrapers are relatively new to the scene compared to the traditional high-speed steel HSS bowl gouge. But which tool is better? Let's see if we can figure out whether carbide turning tools or traditional HSS bowl gouges are best for YOU!
______________________________
Remember to check out my RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT GUIDE at www.TurnAWoodBowl.com/gear
Equipment Used in This Video
• 5/8" Bowl Gouge (roughing) - amzn.to/2WkixLl
• 1/2" Bowl Gouge (all-purpose, finishing) - amzn.to/38UqQmp
• 3/8" Bowl Gouge (finishing cuts and smaller turnings) - amzn.to/2XLc2BF
• Full Face Shield - amzn.to/3laaw5t
• Safety Glasses - amzn.to/3q6cR4Q
• 3M Respirator - amzn.to/368nCvR
• 3M Filters - amzn.to/3l52Jpz
• Small Carbide Scraper Set (seen in this video) - amzn.to/3ilnFbO
(the listings below are a better choice for bowl turning if you want to use carbide)
• Larger Carbide Square Scraper (bowl exterior) - amzn.to/3nQNguD
• Larger Carbide Round Scraper (bowl interior) - amzn.to/2Kjp06v
• Larger Carbide Detail Scraper (details) - amzn.to/38MIHwW
______________________________
If you are curious about, or already completely addicted to turning wood bowls, check out my website dedicated to the art and craft of turning wood bowls!
www.TurnAWoodB...
____________________
Turn A Wood Bowl is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.
_____________________________________________________________
Online Turning Courses --- turnawoodbowl....
Website --- turnawoodbowl....
My Publications --- turnawoodbowl....
KZbin --- turnawoodbowl....
Instagram --- turnawoodbowl....
Etsy Shop --- www.etsy.com/s...
Pinterest --- turnawoodbowl....
Facebook --- turnawoodbowl....
_____________________________________________________________
FREE WOOD BOWL TURNING TIPS EMAILED EACH WEEK - Sign Up Free
turnawoodbowl....
_____________________________________________________________
*** TOOL SHARPENING FOR WOOD BOWL TURNING - ONLINE COURSE
turnawoodbowl.....
_____________________________________________________________
*** WOOD BOWL TURNING Start-to-Finish - ONLINE COURSE
turnawoodbowl....
_____________________________________________________________
#woodturning #woodworking #turnawoodbowl

[@familytaylor4176]

I'm the guy ( MIke) that thanked you three times for your video on using a bowl gouge. In this video OF COURSE you are exactly truthfully 100% HOW REFRESHING !

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Glad I could help Mike! Truthful is the way to go. ;) All the best to you and Happy Turning!

[@judyl.761]

I like both. What’s interesting in my lived experience is that I tend to get cleaner cuts with my carbide tools.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Sounds good, Judy. As I like to say, do what works for you. All the best to you and Happy Turning!

[@jarrodderr]

I spent at least three months never looking to see where my bevel was. Then I found this channel. I’ve improved a thousand percent since learning my AhBC’s. This is awesome. Thank you!!!!!!

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Fantastic! ;) So glad to hear! Keep it up! Happy Turning!

[@DKWalser]

Some important woodturning history: Before we had bowl gouges, many turners used scrapers for turning a bowl. So, the only thing 'modern' about carbide tools is the material the scraper is made from. With that history, the question becomes why did we switch from scrapers to gouges? The answer is bowl gouges provided two primary advantages over the scrapers of the day. First, and most importantly, the cut quality is much superior with a bowl gouge. Second, a bowl gouge remained sharp for much longer than the scrapers of the day. The new carbide tools stay sharper, longer, than do bowl gouges. But, the surface quality is still superior with a bowl gouge than with a scraper. So, in some ways the carbide tools are a step forward. They're also a step backward to yesteryear.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Brilliant! Great point. Thank you for sharing and that helps explain several things all at once. Thanks again. Happy Turning!

[@DiemenDesign]

If you go back into Viking History, they were turning with Pole Lathe's, and using Hook Tools to Cut material, way before scrapping.

[@2д1э]

@@DiemenDesign Вы уверены, что викинги это делали? 🤣

[@Yakov-i9j]

there is a guy in Mexico who onlt uses scrapers for every thing

[@jackthompson8019]

Kent. I use both carbide and bowl gouges when I make a bowl. I can get a pretty smooth cut with a carbide when I put it on edge and do a sheer cut. Thanks for the educational videos.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Right on, sounds good. Happy Turning!

[@charlesputnam9722]

This is another very helpful video from a highly talented wood turner. A few additional thoughts: 1) learning to sharpen bowl gouges properly (and the various shapes for them) takes time and involves no small amount of frustration; 2) bowl gouges do no last forever (every sharpening shortens them up a little bit); 3) sanding reduces the disadvantages of carbide cutters, allowing new turners to produce remarkably good surfaces more quickly than those of us trying to master the gouges and 4) carbide cutters, especially the swan neck variety, help one to master hollow forms and bowl interiors quickly. With all that said, I started with the gouges and have enjoyed the journey toward mastering the gouges. Like Kent, I see a place for both kinds of tools. This channel is a remarkable resource for new turners.

[@SethDowns]

You might be interested to update your information on carbides. I'm a traditional tool user that has been exposed to the Hunter line of carbides that have a different geometry and do allow cutting with carbides.

[@victorstalick3719]

Very interesting. I have a tool with the hunter carbide tip that where the shaft was made by a previous owner. I have had trouble with it because I have tried to use it as a scraper and had many catches. But after looking at a video describing how to use it, I will try it again. Thanks for the info.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Interesting. I'll check into it. I have a hunter hollowing tool. It has a slight downward slope to sheer a bit, but it's still a scraper.

[@oct6897]

I use one of these. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe these are called Shear Cup Cutters, and come under not just one brand.

[@MikePeaceWoodturning]

​@@TurnAWoodBowl Like you my go to tools are conventional HSS. The Hunter viceroy tool I have has the cutter mounted slightly downward and also tilted. It is meant to ride the bevel exactly like a bowl gouge and it slices, not scrapes. I think Hunter has some tools that you have to provide the rotation to ride the bevel and slice but it is still intended to slice not scrape. I have used my Hunter viceroy on punky wood to get a much improved surface than I could get with a spindle gouge on a large box. It slices.

[@jerrystark3587]

You make good points that are consistent with my experiences. When I recently started using a lathe, I began with (1) a Robert Sorby 5-piece woodturning set (without a bowl gouge), (2) the same set of small carbide scrapers that you show in the video, (3) and a low-speed 8" RIkon grinder. These were significant investments and it took a bit of time to get the funds together, but I do not regret any of these purchases. At first, all I did was small spindle turnings. For this, the spindle roughing gouge and the small carbide scrapers worked well. I also learned to size my turned pieces to allow for the considerable sanding I had to do after using carbide tools. (I even made a carbide scraping tool using a "negative rake scraper carbide blade" and a handle I turned with carbide tools. I learned you cannot put a burr on a carbide blade, so the the tool is essentially a dull scraper. So, epic fail. The round carbide scraper works much better.) Then, in fairly short order, I started doing some cross-grain turning and, even though I started out with smaller turnings, I found the carbide tools were most useful for certain types of detail work, like cutting tenons or squaring up interior faces of small boxes, lids, etc. For these things, my carbide tools work very well. However, I did not find them adequate for achieving smoothly-turned results. because they were always biting into and fighting the wood, especially the softer woods. Then there was all the heavy sanding and the loss of detail that can result -- and the damned dust! When I started to get into small box and bowl turning, I started using bowl gouges. They have made a tremendous difference in both my interest in turning and in my ability to do either spindle or cross-grain turning. I am still at the beginning of my learning curve, to be sure, but I am learning new things daily that help me to work better and more efficiently with wood turning tools that cut rather than scrape. I am also using the Oneway Wolverine sharpening setup on my grinder now and that makes a world of difference. As you said, you have to have a sharpening station and you have to sharpen traditional tools frequently. Sharp cutting tools offer the benefits of smoother finished surfaces and finer details. They also allow for quicker finish sanding with less dust. I was pretty good at hand sharpening, but the Oneway grinder accessory has been a real game changer for me. I'll put it this way. Using a bench grinder, It is possible to sharpen wood turning tools well by hand; it is also disastrously easy to mess up woodturning tools very quickly with hand sharpening; further, it is difficult to get repeatable grind profiles by hand sharpening on a grinder. On the other hand, with almost no practice at all, it is easy to sharpen woodturning tools with the Oneway Wolverine setup AND it is not nearly as easy too screw up the tool as you sharpen it; further, it is easy to get repeatable grind profiles. This system -- or one like it -- will save you time, frustration, and quite a bit of expensive tool steel. How do you want to spend your time, sharpening or woodturning? For me that answer is easy.: woodturning (Next step, CBN wheels for the grinder. 👍👍) BTW: Those who suggest, by implication, that scrapers are newer than modern bowl gouges have it precisely backwards. Scrapers are some of the very oldest of woodturning tools. Indeed, chisels were among the first tools used as scrapers and they can still be used as such. Skews quickly evolved from knives, chisels, and even hatchets. Bowl gouges like the ones you use with swept-back wings and 45-55-degree grinds are relatively newer tools, as you stated. The material application of carbide to scraping tools is, indeed, newer, but that is not the key point: woodturning scrapers, the techniques they require, and their limitations are as old as turning itself. You made the central point very clearly: Scrapers scrape; gouges cut. The distinction is important. The more turning you do, the more you appreciate that distinction and the more likely you will turn to gouges, in my estimation, even though it will always be possible to turn wood with carbide scrapers. To each their own and good profit to all. Thanks again for this informative and helpful video. Your videos and your online course on bowl turning have really helped me. (Still working on the skew, though.. 😎 )

[@dougfeuge639]

I have an assortment of both. Depending on the wood hardness I choose the tool that works best for me. Most of the time I use both.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Sounds good, Doug. Happy Turning!

[@stuwest7817]

I just bought my first lathe. A Ricon 70-1420 VSR. I am a woodworker for many years and have never had room for a lathe however I have retired and moved so I now have a much larger shop and decided ro pull the trigger on a lathe. I am very excited to try it and I look to videos like this for tips and Knowledge. Thanks so much for the useful information and I look forward to seeing much more content from you!

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Stu, I'm happy to help. Enjoy that new lathe! All the best to you and Happy Turning!

[@tothesummit5864]

I am a longtime rockhound who does lapidary work. My father is a woodworker who produces remarkable pieces (his rocking chairs are some of the most amazing pieces of furniture/art I've ever seen). One thing he never added to his shop was a lathe. I recently spent a month quarantined with covid and during that time I went down the KZbin rabbit hole watching woodturning videos. I got super excited about it and decided I needed to add some wood skills to my hobbies (really looking forward to combining my stones with wood pieces). So anyway, my new Jet 1221vs will be delivered tomorrow. I think my Dad is as excited about it as I am! :D I already have had most of the tooling and parts I need to get started delivered to me (I have spent far more on tooling and misc than the lathe cost). I am starting out with carbide tools but I definitely want to learn to use HSS proficiently as well. The bowl gouge just seems like such a versatile tool that produces great results. Let me just say that I love your videos Kent. I have learned so much about turning from them and I've never even stood at a lathe yet. Thanks for all the info you provide. You have saved me from some very costly (and potentially dangerous) mistakes before I even begin!

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Wow! Thank you for writing and sharing! That's fantastic! How exciting getting a whole new set-up and your father can join in the fun. WooHoo!!! Enjoy the process. Remember; persistent, patient practice will yield the bowls you imagine creating! All the best to you and Happy Turning!

[@tothesummit5864]

Turned my first bowl today. Actually a bowl and a half. Had a failure on the first. The pith was running right through my tenon and it broke off as I started working on the inside. Good rookie lesson on the weakness of the pith. Second bowl went well. Could've spent more time on the sanding and finish but I was just concentrating on learning how to use my lathe and apply all the lessons I've learned from videos. They were cut from a piece of 6x6 lumber I hauled home from a jobsite. (wanted to add pictures but don't see how to do that here, am I missing it or is it not an option?)

[@jackwebb8749]

I just got my first lathe for Christmas. I have turned a total of 5 bowls, 1 goblet and 2 small lidded boxes. My last bowl was probably my best. I got a set of bowl gouges, learned to sharpen them and watched your video on riding the bevel and tried to apply that to my bowl. It was an improvement over my first few bowls. I really noticed the difference. Thanks for the videos and keep up the good work.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

That is awesome! You are very welcome. Glad to help. Happy Turning!

[@StephenOgle]

Great vid and it is the best comparison vid I have seen. Most are all partial to one or the other. Well done. However, I must disagree about your "con" on the bowl gouge. I would think that all woodshops would have a sharpening station of some sort and even then you would not have to spend multiple hundreds of dollars to be able to sharpen turning tools effectively. When I first started turning, most woodturners recommended an 80 grit wheel on a bench grinder. I just do not think sharpening is a con. It only takes a few seconds. About as long as it takes to loosen a carbide cutter, rotate, and retighten. I really liked your video and don't get me wrong. Use what you want, it is your shop. Take care and keep em coming.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Thanks, Stephen. I agree with sharpening not being an issue. But I also have to address people who use carbide and do zero sharpening and get introduced to turning through that route. It is a steep curve to go from zero sharpening to learning to sharpen. All the best to you and Happy Turning!

[@POVMTB1]

Getting into wood working you're not only learning how to build stuff, you're also learning how to sharpen your stuff, how to maintain all sort of tools, is just the deeper you go in the forest the more trees

[@MrXstacey]

I bought a set of 4 carbide metal shafts with a handle you’re supposed to swap, but I made my own handles instead. The 3 tips shown plus another round with an angle for hollowing. Cost $150 CDN and came with 10 replacement tips on the Wish app. I’m not saying it’s better or worse, I use traditional tools as well. There are times you want one over the other.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Agreed. Do what works best for you! Happy Turning!

[@hellogamer4242]

I've been using both for a long time. I prefer the bowl gouge but by adapting that technique to carbide by dropping the handle it cuts a little more, and scrapes less, and leaves a smoother surface, although it's still not as good as my trusty bowl gouge. For spindle work I use them all the time though. Nice to have them both for different uses.

[@thesweetone]

I use both interchangeable. But one big thing I would point out is that the uses change a bit when it comes to different types of wood. I find some carbides do wonders and leave amazing results on certain woods over a bowl gouge.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Very good point. Thanks for sharing. Happy Turning!

[@rickschuman2926]

I knew of 2 world class turners. One of them used conventional turning tools to roughy get to the shape of what he intended and at that point used sand paper to finish, beginning with 36 grit and using finer grits until a satisfactory surface was had. The other scraped every thing, using some car bide for thr roughing in and whatever sort of scraper got the best results. There is no better than. There is what ever technique and tools gets the work done.

[@JDDupuy]

I have both types on 2 different Lathes in the workshop. I have my preferences depending on what I am doing. One type won't replace the other in my shop. And I don't draw a line in the sand over who uses what. Two ways to get down the same road. You did a nice job on the video.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Thanks for sharing. Good point too. Happy Turning!

[@bryanperron6748]

Just bought a lath glad I found you on you tube.Lots of my questions and mistakes are solved by watching you.I am the guy that does not read instructions.I seem to like learning by trial and error and blood.My secound piece was a piece of fir 12 inches in diameter mounted it and turned on the lath forgot the frequency drive was on high speed.Thats when The blood entered the picture luckily not much just a sore nose for a few days Tried reversing my 4 jaw chuck from internal to external cannot get it back in time numbers are on the jaws but no numbers on chuck any ideas .

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Thank you, Bryan and welcome. All the best to you and Happy Turning!

[@brokenbranchwoodshop1873]

I use both. I used carbide for everything for a while and have been getting more into “traditional” tools for bowls. I really like the cut quality better with bowls. However I still enjoy the carbides more with smaller spindle work like pens and small handles.

[@kimr5841]

I agree with you on the finish of the scraper vs the gouge, but have to disagree a bit on cost comparisons. I know lots of turners, and none have a single gouge for turning. There are spindle gouges, and parting tools, and bottom gouges, etc.etc. As you said, the sharpening station is a big initial investment. I've been shopping for both types of tools, and haven't found those really expensive carbides yet. One on one, the two types are similar for quality tools. But as I said, all the turners I know have a box of gouges of various angles and grinds. I am just starting (bought a used midi), and trying to justify which way to spend to get turning. From what I've learned so far, even though traditional does a better job on the surface, it is way more expensive as an overall investment. Thanks for all you do, and I always get so much good information, and learn so much from your videos.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Thank you for writing and sharing Kim! You might be correct for smaller turnings. However, a large scraper used to rough out a 12" blank, for example, is pretty expensive compared to a bowl gouge. And the experience of roughing a large bowl blank with a scraper is not pleasant compared to a bowl gouge. Again, do what works best for you. If you are doing medium to small turnings, scrapers might be the best way for you. More power to you. All the best to you and Happy Turning!

[@stevecampbell4118]

I’m fairly new to turning bowls (I’ve produced 4). I have found your videos to be, by far, the most helpful and well produced out there. I’ve mostly used a bowl gouge but I still struggle a bit getting rid of ridges on the interior of the bowl. A recently purchased round nosed carbide tool helps me produce a better end result until I get more proficient with the gouge. Thank you for this balanced and useful video.

[@davidgrant8267]

I like to use carbide tools for rough turning then traditional tools for finishing. Also I have a carbide tool that has a cupped tip that actually cuts rather than scraping. But it was an expensive tool and it has a very long reach. Love your videos and they are very helpful with turning bowls.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Thanks for sharing, David! That sounds like a plan. Happy Turning!

[@donaldriedlinger7711]

I like the carbides but as I learn more I'm realizing I'm going to need a sharpening jig for the traditional to do everything I want to do. so having both is kind of nice

[@larrylambeth8610]

Brand new to turning - only done 2 small bowls - my lathe I got used and had both traditional and carbide so I've been playing with both and found I love both - so enjoy going back and forth depending on what I'm doing - but never knew why. This was very informative - thank you!!!! I look forward to now going through some of your online courses and following you online.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Welcome aboard! You are at a good spot in your adventure. Having both tools will help you see the differences and advantages as you progress. All the best to you and Happy Turning!

[@TimAshleyWoodworks]

Great info 👍 I've been using my carbide to mostly hollow out the bowl and finish it with the gouge to get that smooth grain. Saves the abuse on the bowl gouge!

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Sounds good. Happy Turning!

[@davidgates5380]

Thanks, Kent, for a very balanced view on the two methods. There are some really good comments from the carbide wood turners in the commentary too. Like you, my preference is for the bowl gouge, but occasionally carbide would be nice, especially with grit infused wood or root balls that hold a lot of sand and gravel. Take care and keep warm over that side of the globe.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Thanks for sharing. Good points. Happy Turning!

[@michaell7877]

I only have the traditional turning tools. 5 in a set, and I have two different maker sets. I invested in the Tormek T8. Very expensive, but I have just about every jig for it too. I have at least 2 grand invested in it. Great vid Kent. And I am already enrolled in your online e-coarses.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Fantastic! Thanks for sharing and all the best to you. Happy Turning!

[@bradlebowitz9730]

You are a great teacher. Thank you!

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Wow, thank you Brad! Happy Turning!

[@jasonhoeg7351]

Started with traditional tools and now I have found carbides, loving them and the challenges of it all

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Sounds great! Happy Turning!

[@Horsewomann]

I appreciate this look at the different tools. I was taught pen turning with a traditional gouge, but it was used as a scraper. I switched to carbide because it is fantastic for acrylics. Now, I want to branch out and learn to do bowls. Looks like I’ll be learning how to sharpen my traditional tools.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Sounds good. Be sure to check out my Tool Sharpening (and shaping) online course www.TurnAWoodBowl.com/sharp Happy Turning!

[@Heliumcraft]

It’s a great video. I just want to add that, if you own a set of traditional tools and sharpening system , it can be very cheap to make the carbide tool set with mild steel bar or even aluminum bar. you can turn handles with different length of handles and can replace most of scraping tools.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Thank you sharing. All the best to you and Happy Turning!

[@2unruly]

Good video, last summer I started turning for the first time. I ordered carbide tools and a mini lathe. The tools came in a week and the lathe took almost 2 months...lol The day the lathe arrived, around noon, I set it up in my shop and put a piece of wood in it around 2 pm. At dinner time that evening I set my first lidded bowl on the dinner table. That is the advantage of carbide. Almost no learning curve. There is absolutely no way that would have happened with hhs tools.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Nice work! Thanks for sharing. Happy Turning!

[@perfectpitchtodd]

I have both the conventional tools and carbide tools. The only time I tend to use the carbide tools is when epoxy resin is involved. I find the resin chips more with a bowl gouge oas opposed to the carbide tools. When turning all wood I use the bowl gouges.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Sounds like you've found what works for you. Excellent! Happy Turning!

[@terrrywilliams3617]

Kent, thank you for this video. I’m 65 and just a hobbyist with a small Rikon lathe. I’ve just started with bowls ,thanks to you . I’ve done some small spindle turning in the past. I do have the carbide tools small and the bigger ones and have found they do good with what I’ve made. I just recently purchased a set of 4 inexpensive bowl gouges but had some trouble getting things going like you said. I’m not use to them yet. I did use the bigger carbides to hollow out the inside of the bowl and finished as best I could with the bowl gouge it turned out ok. I was turning oak and I’m assuming that’s part of my problem. I won’t go on any more. Just wanted to say I appreciate your videos and find them very helpful.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Thank you very much! So glad to help. Checkout the full Bowl Gouge Playlist on my channel here. There's a ton of info there for you. All the best! Happy Turning!

[@bobmonday925]

I find that I haven’t been getting good information from my local supplier..they tend to be more focused on quick sells and I have made bad purchases from not doing enough research. Thanks for good information,bad and good prospectives.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Bob, Thank you for writing and sharing! Yes, they benefit from sales obviously. It's always good to do homework first. Have you seen this one? kzbin.info/www/bejne/f3OaeYaKrL2Zn7M All the best to you and Happy Turning!

[@discardo]

I absolutely use both. I feel carbide works better on resin and the bowl gouge works better on wood. But like Kent said whatever works best for you is right.😁

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Right on. Happy Turning!

[@Dorweaver]

I got my carbide tools the other day and have been turning a few small bowls with them. Boy are you right about the smoothness of the cut. I mean, they get the job done, but gee whiz I hope I can get my hands on a sharpening wheel soon to start using my gouges!

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

They both have uses, but I think you're right. You will see a difference. Happy Turning!

[@larrystanley3886]

Really enjoy your videos. You seem to have the natural ability to explain what you are talking about!!!! I've learned a Lot from your videos. Now I have to learn how to turn correctly. Lol. Thank you so much!!!!!! 👍👍👍👍👍

[@Tuxon86]

As a new wood turner I went with the carbide for the simple reason that I still don’t know my lathe very much and carbide tool seems to be more forgiving. Just keep the tool steady and level and it does its job. Traditional tools imply learning many different approach and technique that can be a bit overwhelming to a noob like me. Once I understand more about my machine and this craft I’ll try traditional tools.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Alain, sounds perfect. Keep things simple. You can always move up to the Bowl Gouge later. All the best to you and Happy Turning!

[@johnallum6466]

I agree, the old tools are best. I started in the 60s and have just purchased a used lathe without tools. Decided I would try carbide, they work but not as well. Just had to know, now I need to buy another set.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Thanks for sharing, John! All the best to you and Happy Turning!

[@danwalton395]

You've got to admit that carbides last a long time and are very easy to sharpen. You can make a carbide tool quite easily and fairly inexpensively. I may have led you in the wrong direction though. I use traditional tools (although I did go with swept back grind), I'm just considering adding carbide to my collection of tools. I will make them myself. Everything but the carbides. Thanks for replying to my questions. Have a great day.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Thanks for sharing. All the best to you. Happy Turning!

[@michaeljohnson3913]

I’ve been turning for several years and although I agree carbide has its place, I have two EWT pro series tools, I still use my cryo bowl gouge as my go to on any bowl interior. Lately I’m turning bowls with resin and can’t really us the carbide tools at all do to catches.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Thank you for writing and sharing Michael! It sounds like you've found what works best for you. And THAT is what's most important! All the best to you and Happy Turning!

[@billrobinson8939]

Lots to think about. I have the carbide and they're relatively easy to use. The gouges i got with the used lathe don't seem to be at the right angle, except for the 1" one. I'm going to build a sharpening station tomorrow. If it doesn't work, I'll have to spend the big bucks. Thanks for all you do. You're the best

[@michaelogden5958]

I recently bought a carbide "shear scraper" tool just to experiment with carbide. I've been using conventional tools for years and I often shear scrape (actually not a scrape, but a very fine slice) with a bowl gouge. The carbide tool "bar" has a small bevel-like surface which, in theory, could help produce a slicing action. In my hands, the carbide tool bevel angle between nothing and a dig-in just about infinitesimal. But I'll keep practicing with scrap and cutoffs to see if we can be friends. 🙂Cheers! Great videos!

[@allenhuckabee3764]

Thanks for the education. I am in the process of learning and I have both but just can’t get the hang of the bowl gouge for some reason.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

You can do it! Lots of practice. Actually, in my Turning eCourse, you'll pick it up quick. TurnAWoodBowl.com/turn Happy Turning!

[@peterjenne3552]

Love your videos, they have been a huge help. I am new to turning and started with carbide tools I built. I am learning the bowl gouge, but need to practice more with it before I will get to like and trust it. Keep the great videos comming...thanks

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Great to hear! Will do. Happy Turning!

[@ff5973]

My first few bowls were with the carbide scrapers. I was able to make them work, but they catch ALOT!. I have recently been trying ti use the bowl gouge. The learning curve is definitely sharper, but they are fantastic. Use the tool that is better for you.

[@danwalton395]

Good point. I have some brand name tools and I think the 1/2" bowl gouge wasn't properly cured. It requires constant sharpening and it's to the point that it won't work with my Wolverine sharpening jig. This tool has lasted about one year and with lockdown gets used pretty much every day. I also have a 5/8" bowl gouge by the same company that requires about 1/3 to 1/4 the sharpening. New 1/2" bowl gouge here in Canada start at about $68.00 and up.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Thanks for the info! Interesting about the gouge not keeping an edge. Hm? Happy Turning!

[@jarmstrong2843]

I have been turning wood periodically for about 1.5 years. I started out with carbide by making my own tools and eventually bought a conventional set of Sorby tools. I only use the carbides when I have difficulty turning a piece of wood and conventional turning tools are not working for me at the time. My inexperience in turning wood is the limiting factor since I don’t turn that often. Yes, even an inexperienced turner can see the difference between the two types of tools and the quality of finish. When using carbide, to achieve a better finish on the wood, you must use higher turning speeds and keep the tool at the center of the piece or just a tad bit higher. But in the end, you’re still scraping and having to sand more to achieve a nice finish on the wood. It is best to learn the art of turning wood with conventional tools since they are part of the art themselves. It is gratifying to know you turned something nice with conventional tools. IMHO, wood turning is like golf. You never master it because every piece of wood and where the ball lands on the golf course is different. You go with what the wood or golf ball lie will allow.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Very well said. Thank you, thank you! Happy Turning!

[@randyrockwell6136]

Great information! I am brand new to turning ...... waiting for a midi lathe to arrive that came with a set of 3 carbide scrapers. My primary use will be to turn small parts and wheels for wood models. I think that the carbide tools will work just fine foe my needs. In the future that might change if I really get into turning. Again .... Thank you for your great videos!

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Thank you and I think you are on the right path. Have fun! Happy Turning!

[@bullfrogpondshop3179]

Thanks for an informative video! I've used HSS my whole "career" (31 year shop teacher), but recently bought my first carbide tool. WOW! I'm turning ravioli pins in endgrain maple and this thing is sending ribbons of wood off the tool! I just mic'd one at .005" thick. The surface is smoother than anything I've ever gotten with HSS, although I will admit I'm only an intermediate level turner and I have no idea what "riding the bevel" means. Yes, the carbide tools are more expensive than HSS, but a good sharpening system will cost several times more than carbide tools, not to mention the learning curve for the sharpening system itself on top of that. I'll be investing in more carbide tools in the future, but no plans to completely abandon my HSS tools either.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Right on. Do what works for you. Happy Turning!

[@bullfrogpondshop3179]

@@TurnAWoodBowl do you have any videos explaining "riding the bevel"?

[@erkful]

@@bullfrogpondshop3179 31 years a shop teacher and you don’t know what riding the bevel is?

[@kenvasko2285]

Great video. I started with carbide tools. They let me thinking more about bowl design rather than tool presentation and technique. As I turn more, I do find myself using the bowl gouge. I use the carbides more for roughing and less for finishing bowls. This process cuts down on the frequency of sharpening the bowl gouge so it makes me feel more efficient. I think carbides versatility comes into play when you go from bowl turning to spindle turning. Carbides can be used for both well. On manmade materials, carbides outperform, especially with the new negative rakes tips. Again, great video. Gets us thinking about our own processes.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Thanks for sharing! Yes, it's all about the process. Happy Turning!

[@JOHNSmith-pn6fj]

Thank you for another good video and explaining some good points about different types of tools. I am very new to the wood turning world and have both carbide and traditional bowl gouges, spindle gouges, etc. I want to learn how to use both. Either way I am having a blast turning and learning how to turn better.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Thank you, John and Thank you kindly for your support! Happy Turning!

[@Elyyfz450]

Thank you Thank you thank you so much for sharing thus video. The first time I turned I was introduced to carbide and got pretty good at smaller turnings and details like pens and rings. No I'm very interested in making bowls and got a cheap set of gouges but I really need to learn how to use these geat tools. I really appreciate your information on both tools for bowl turning. One happy subscriber. 😊

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Wonderful! I'm so glad to help. Be sure to see my other videos too. All the best to you and Happy Turning!

[@georgepauselli769]

Hi I've only been turning on and off for the past year and I have both carbide tools and traditional tools, carbide are a lot easier to use but a lot more sanding and more sanding, thanks for the info keep them coming stay safe

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Thanks for sharing. Happy Turning!

[@poppy.fishing]

I use both carbide and traditional turning tools but I prefer the traditional bowl gouge. I just like the feel and sound of the cut.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Thanks for sharing! Happy Turning!

[@sylanceX13]

love it thanks for all the info , about to buy my first lathe , im getting jet 1221vs and carbide tools. make more videos pless we love them

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Thanks, will do! Great lathe, the 1221vs. Enjoy and Happy Turning!

[@josephwise485]

Thanks Kent. Very informative.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Glad you enjoyed it Happy Turning!

[@stephanie09.11]

I am a super newbie and went with carbide. I am the worst at sharpening anything. You can get reverse rake tips for the carbide, which has it’s own advantages. You can also get carbide hollowers. 😁

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Can I let you in on a little secret? I hated sharpening tools before too, because I needed to learn how to do it right. We've all been there. Check this out TurnAWoodBowl.com/sharp All the best to you and Happy Turning!

[@felicitywt9291]

Great video thanks, I've never used carbide but have considered trying it at times, I feel I do fine with a bowl gouge and love the flexibility of it as you've explained in this video, I think the only reason I've considered the carbide is when I'm turning Aussie hard woods to just rough out the bowl, as some of the timber is extremely hard on the tools.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Sounds great! Do what works for you. Happy Turning! (down under) ;)

[@richkeelan1312]

Great info as I will have a lathe soon thanks for sharing

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

You bet. Happy Turning!

[@jean-louishoules5198]

A really well study between both systems. Thanks Kent for your really instructives videos Be indulgent for my English, as I'm a French speaker, but your videos, besides they improve my wood turning, also improve my English learning. 😉👍

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

You are very welcome. Thank you and I understand you clearly. All the best to you! Happy Turning!

[@chrisrae5589]

Very informative I did not know the difference between the 2 I did order a couple of cokburne scrapers and hopefully they will serve me well. Most of my turning has been with a bowl gouge And this helped me understand I like that you put pros and cons for both that's how the world should be looked at not just In this topic but in all. If you can do the same video On Finishers With pros and cons that would be great. I've asked you the question before and you answered it so and of little confusing. Plus I think other people would appreciate it as well

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Thank you. Yes, we should discuss all the angles with these topics. Happy Turning!

[@danwalton395]

Every second and thanks for sharing. I am a subscriber and watch most of your videos.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Awesome, thank you so much! Happy Turning!

[@sateeshum394]

Catches in case of carbide scrapers are so nasty one must be careful, yes wrong use of gauge also can cause it but not as bad as carbide.. yes big have their place..❤ love your candid review...

[@tonyhayden3385]

I haven't read all the replies but it seems obvious to me that you'd use a scraper to shape and a gouge to finish a project 🤔 Unless you are going to spend a little of money on each you can have both and have fun😊👍

[@AKD_In_The_Shop]

How about a carbide bowl gouge best of both worlds. Thanks for all the great videos.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Hm? Interesting. ;) Happy Turning!

[@tomletourneau4156]

Just confused a bit. There are so many very expert production turners who use HSS scrapers, many who regularly use negative rake scrapers in their work. What is the wood turning difference between these (often expensive) tools and carbide tools? Carbide tips are now made which have negative rake built in. I’m a hobbiest and have several of all types of tools, so I can’t say I have enough experience to judge with my own work. BTW… I really enjoy Kent’s videos.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Thank you for writing and sharing Tom! Usually HSS scraper, like the round nose scraper are used to final smooth a surface. They are rarely used to shape and remove bulk material. Where the carbide tools are made to do both. Use what works for you and gives you the results you prefer. All the best to you and Happy Turning!

[@tomletourneau4156]

@@TurnAWoodBowl Of course. That makes perfect sense. Should have thought of it this way. After hundreds of $ invested in both types of tools, my goal has still been to improve my HSS handling. I’m actually attracted to the idea of proper sharpening anyway… and always enjoyed tackling new skills. Thanks for your time and expertise, Kent.

[@DesjardinsValier]

As always, great video! I use both as well as cutting bits and agree with your take on this subject.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Awesome, thank you! Happy Turning!

[@lmallard3788]

When building with treated lumber, I prefer my hand plane to using a belt sander. I have gotten some amazingly smooth surfaces with my plane that did not need sanding later. I am pretty sure I’d want to use the turning tools that must be regularly sharpened and I am almost ready to drop a load of money on tormek t8 system. I’ll get beyond that and buy a lathe that fits my tight space

[@jmrivera83]

Great video as always! I use them both and started out with carbide because turning was a little intimidating when I first started and they helped. They both have their uses but I'm with you 100%, I love the bowl gouge! It took me a lot of practice to get really comfortable with it but it's worth it if you do a decent amount of turning. I still use carbide on some of the rough stuff, just to save time on sharpening.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Right on! Happy Turning!

[@mikethompson9745]

I started turning because my family bought me a mini lathe on Christmas, I had it a long time because I didn't have a mentor to teach me things, I discovered carbide and started on pens, great fun and I have since mover up in skills, I still use Carbide because I still do not have a mentor and before I spend the money on traditional, I want ot know how to do it. Join club you might say, I don't like the clubs the guys with the Robust lathes and see what I have vs the have nots , I am getting a new full size lathe , maybe a revo maybe the tecnatool DVR not sure , but If i can find a mentor on teaching traditional I will look into it. Thanks for your tips

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Mike, I completely understand. You do what works best for you. Oh, and by the way all the teaching courses are ready and waiting for you here www.TurnAWoodBowl.com/courses All the best to you and Happy Turning!

[@jerrybridges584]

Thanks again Kent. Good to know the pros and cons of each type tool. I own two carbide scrapers that I bought when I started turning spindles. They have their place in my shop. However, when I started turning bowls I bought a 5/8 and a 1/2 inch bowl gouge. I am still perfecting my cuts with the gouges. I had already invested in a sharpening station for my spindle tools so I had already absorbed that cost. I now have five bowl gouges--two with the Irish grind and two with the relief grind, and one with 40/40 grind. These gouges are dedicated to those grinds so I do not have to modify the grind each time I sharpen. A word of caution to someone considering turning bowls---it is addictive. The more bowls I turn the more I want to turn, experimenting with different shapes and different finishes.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Jerry, thank you for sharing. And yes, WARNING, bowl turning is addictive. ;) Happy Turning!

[@northernwesty]

I personally don’t understand why people get so defensive about tools. At the end of the day, did you finish your project (bowl, spindle, other)? Were you safe while you were making your project? I don’t care if you used the edge of a credit card to scrape the bowl. Use what works

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Correct, and well said. I think it is because some might not have experience with one tool or the other. As humans, we have a tendency to become defensive when in uncharted waters. ;) Happy Turning!

[@AlbenLee-u1k]

Thank you for the info brother. Tex

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

My pleasure, Tex!

[@anneturner2018]

I use both depending on what I am doing but if I had to choose I would go with the bowl gauge...😊 I was taught with a bowl gauge first...

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Thanks for sharing!! Sounds like it works for you. Happy Turning!

[@ironleatherwood1357]

👍I just prefer carbide!

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Sounds good. But have you used HSS? Happy Turning!

[@anitak8056]

I can't wait to make this!! I am vegan but your recipes are so fantastic and easy enough to adjust to be vegan too❤

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Um? Ok? ;)

[@A50S2D]

I use both HSS and Carbide, but mostly HSS.

[@bradmcnamar5679]

As usual, your content was timely. I am trying to decide on whether to purchase some carbide scrappers and Rockler has them on sale right now. I have some bowl gouges and I try to sharpen them properly, but it is not working out well and what looks like simple cuts on your videos has resulted in major frustration for me. I think I'm going to get some and try and do a combination while turning. Thanks for the advice. I am also contemplating signing up for your class, but since it is not interactive I question my ability to get a lot out of it. I have yet to make that decision.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Brad, thanks for writing. As for the classes, you can interact with me, as many students do. I answer all comments and questions in all my courses in great detail. I think you will not only enjoy them, but benefit greatly. Check out the Tool Sharpening course here TurnAWoodBowl.com/sharp and the Wood Bowl Turning Start-to-Finish course here TurnAWoodBowl.com/turn All the best to you and Happy Turning!

[@bradmcnamar5679]

@@TurnAWoodBowl I think I will probably take the sharpening course within the next week or two and the other one maybe a month later. Thanks for the feedback

[@im4dabirds]

i use both., thanks for the info

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

No problem! Happy Turning!

[@oneturnatatime6309]

Very informative Ken. Thanks for sharing

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

You are very welcome. Happy Turning!

[@ridwanw]

Thanks Kent for this video

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

You are very welcome. Happy Turning!

[@edkuhar3050]

Ed K. Welcome, NC. The turning course; start to finish.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Thanks for entering! Happy Turning!

[@lenshandcraftedwoodsigns6033]

Thank you, that helps me to understand more.

[@TheCdrbaby]

Good stuff thank you:) would you please do a video on the different types of carbide positive rake vs no rake vs negative rake? I only ask because I noticed on my duplicator the carbide has a positive rake and it gives me a cut finish so I bought a carbide tool and lol it doesn't give me a nice cut. It does exactly what you are saying smashes grane.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Thanks Clyde. I'll see what I can do. Happy Turning!

[@freshcut6952]

As always great job

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@lmallard3788]

Excellent video! Ill be looking into your ecourses.

[@joenelson8940]

Would you clean out the inside of the bowl with carbide scraper and finish with a bowl gouge to save time and sharpening?

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Joe, good question. I can clear out the interior much faster with the bowl gouge and the sharpening only takes a few seconds. Happy Turning! Kent

[@sdoitla1431]

First, I have and use both carbide and traditional turning tools. To be fair re the cost comparison, the cost of a sharpening station should be included. After all, as you pointed out, you will have to sharpen traditional tools to use them. 3 quality larger carbide tools and a set of replacement tips; my cost, $215 US. Cost of three gouges, (for various profiles,) and a sharpening station; $1,136, my cost. Re learning curve, the learning curve for proper sharpening is at least as long as that of bowl gouge proficiency.

[@TheKingOfTheBrocean]

I respectfully disagree. I got 3 Thompson gouges without handles for $230. Scrap wood handles, 20$ for an old Facebook grinder, $100 for a 180 cbn wheel and then the Peachtree jig setup for 89$. But I also bought two AliExpress hollowing carbide tools for 37$ so I think if you want to go the cheap route which is working amazingly for me…you can. I just don't like when people list prices. You should figure out what you like and then wheel and deal or find sales to get to that place. I think as a hobbyist using hss tools is so much more fun. My first gouges were from a 20$ harbor freight clearance box of 8 tools. I still use them sometimes with the weird grinds I put on them. So in my opinion everyone should go that route. Plus you need to sharpen more often because the steel isn't as great which is great for practicing and learning.

[@jeanlong4285]

Oh yeah, thanks for the lesson.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

You bet! Happy Turning.

[@robinhorton6625]

I use carbide tools that are made with a bevel, so they cut like any other tool and leave a smooth surface, they are from a UK turner.

[@txmexnittro]

Awesome video and thanks for sharing‼️ I’m new and I haven’t bought the wood lathe and tools yet.... I know Harbor Freight has a nice tradition 8 pierce HSS set for $79 but they need more sharpening.... Have you ever tried the HB tools to see how they compare to higher end turning tools? Last, have you made a video that shows the difference between the bowl gouge & carbide scraper?? Thank you

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Thank you for writing and sharing! I think this video answers many of your questions. kzbin.info/www/bejne/f3OaeYaKrL2Zn7M Happy Turning!

[@keithedwards1038]

I’m a total newbie. Just purchased my first lathe and a set of carbide tools. I’ve literally practiced two times. Just got everything in the past two days. My question is how much pressure do I need to apply when im turning a project? Seems like perhaps im being a little skittish. Again im brand new to all of this. So if anyone has advice, please feel free to let me know.

[@SigniousCA]

Best point I've heard on the gouge vs carbide debate: Show me what you made with it. Let the product of the tool in the creators hands be the judge.

[@harveygoodman8078]

Having said that, I did enjoy the video!

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Thank you kindly!

[@StevenDavisPhoto]

Thanks for this video. I'm just getting into turning. Can you just sand more after using a scraper? Also, this video made me buy your course.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Good question, Steven. Thank you for your support and WELCOME! The scraper, because it doesn't slice like the gouge, has a tendency to pull out end-grain fibers. They can be pulled out pretty deep. In order for the surface to feel smooth you would have to sand all the way to the base of the pulled fibers. A.k.a., a LOT of sanding. That being said, there are turners that claim to be able to get a nice finish with the scraper. The wood being used will also be a contributing factor. Hope that helps a bit. All the best to you and Happy Turning!

[@terryhinton9910]

I teach wood turning for the blind. I find the carbit tips easer to teach with as the learning curb is not as steep.

[@TurnAWoodBowl]

Terry, that makes total sense. What is the most difficult aspect of teaching the blind?

[@terryhinton9910]

The initial introduction of the chisel to the timber the sound and feed back through the chisel. Can be a dit daunting, but we work through it. I'm happy to share some of the work they are doing.

[@terryhinton9910]

Is there a way I could share some photos of their work?