High speed steel has a rich history, dating back to the mid-19th century. Throughout the passage of time, it's undergone serious improvements and modifications in order to meet industry demands. In fact, that is how M42 rose to prominence, it's unique ability to tackle difficult-to-machine steels and high-hardness alloys. For this very reason, M42 has frequented our machine shop for over 40 years.
M42 High Speed Steel for Woodturning Tools
High speed steel has a rich history, dating back to the mid-19th century. Throughout the passage of time, it's undergone serious improvements and modifications in order to meet industry demands. In fact, that is how M42 rose to prominence, its unique ability to tackle difficult-to-machine steels and high-hardness alloys. For this very reason, M42 has frequented our machine shop for over 40 years.
Cobalt: the Element Behind M42
In both the woodturning and manufacturing industries, M42 is known for both edge durability and edge sharpness.
Cobalt is the element that sets M42 apart - it has a unique 10% cobalt content. Cobalt is responsible for M42's superior "red hardness." This red hardness allows M42 to be heat-treated harder than other high speed steels. In turn, this rigorous heat-treatment provides the steel's renowned edge durability.
This edge durability results in a long-lasting sharp edge. Hats off to cobalt for allowing woodturners to leave the grinder lonely!
Cobalt: the Element Behind M42
In both the woodturning and manufacturing industries, M42 is known for both edge durability and edge sharpness.
Cobalt is the element that sets M42 apart - it has a unique 10% cobalt content. Cobalt is responsible for M42's superior "red hardness." This red hardness allows M42 to be heat-treated harder than other high speed steels. In turn, this rigorous heat-treatment provides the steel's renowned edge durability.
This edge durability results in a long-lasting sharp edge. Hats off to cobalt for allowing woodturners to leave the grinder lonely!
Cobalt: the Element Behind M42
In both the woodturning and manufacturing industries, M42 is known for both edge durability and edge sharpness.
Cobalt is the element that sets M42 apart - it has a unique 10% cobalt content. Cobalt is responsible for M42's superior "red hardness." This red hardness allows M42 to be heat-treated harder than other high speed steels. In turn, this rigorous heat-treatment provides the steel's renowned edge durability.
This edge durability results in a long-lasting sharp edge. Hats off to cobalt for allowing woodturners to leave the grinder lonely!
Cobalt: the Element Behind M42
In both the woodturning and manufacturing industries, M42 is known for both edge durability and edge sharpness.
Cobalt is the element that sets M42 apart - it has a unique 10% cobalt content. Cobalt is responsible for M42's superior "red hardness." This red hardness allows M42 to be heat-treated harder than other high speed steels. In turn, this rigorous heat-treatment provides the steel's renowned edge durability.
This edge durability results in a long-lasting sharp edge. Hats off to cobalt for allowing woodturners to leave the grinder lonely!
Cobalt: the Element Behind M42
In both the woodturning and manufacturing industries, M42 is known for both edge durability and edge sharpness.
Cobalt is the element that sets M42 apart - it has a unique 10% cobalt content. Cobalt is responsible for M42's superior "red hardness." This red hardness allows M42 to be heat-treated harder than other high speed steels. In turn, this rigorous heat-treatment provides the steel's renowned edge durability.
This edge durability results in a long-lasting sharp edge. Hats off to cobalt for allowing woodturners to leave the grinder lonely!
Working with M42 High Speed Steel
After working with M42 for 40 years, we have a few tricks up our sleeves to enhance the strength and sharpness of your tools.
Polished Flute
Every tool is meticulously polished to increase edge life. Steel has natural inconsistencies, and though microscopic, they prevent a clean cutting edge. When these are "smoothed over" through the polishing process, the tool can be honed to a finer, longer-lasting edge. An added benefit, you can use your bowl gouge flute as a mirror!
Round Tang
A unique feature of every tool is our 3" long round tang. While it adds to the manufacturing process, we think you'll agree that the elevated strength and longevity of the tool is more than worth it. A round tang also allows for a precision fit between tool and handle, reducing vibration.
Double Bevel
An aspect of the tools we take great care in is the factory grind, and that's why each tool sports a double bevel. With less steel in contact with the wood, the double bevel reduces catches and unwanted marks on the cutting surface. By allowing your tool to protrude an extra 1/2" from your jig, this double bevel is easily replicated.
Working with M42 High Speed Steel
After working with M42 for 40 years, we have a few tricks up our sleeves to enhance the strength and sharpness of your tools.
Polished Flute
Every tool is meticulously polished to increase edge life. Steel has natural inconsistencies, and though microscopic, they prevent a clean cutting edge. When these are "smoothed over" through the polishing process, the tool can be honed to a finer, longer-lasting edge. An added benefit, you can use your bowl gouge flute as a mirror!
Round Tang
A unique feature of every tool is our 3" long round tang. While it adds to the manufacturing process, we think you'll agree that the elevated strength and longevity of the tool is more than worth it. A round tang also allows for a precision fit between tool and handle, reducing vibration.
Double Bevel
An aspect of the tools we take great care in is the factory grind, and that's why each tool sports a double bevel. With less steel in contact with the wood, the double bevel reduces catches and unwanted marks on the cutting surface. By allowing your tool to protrude an extra 1/2" from your jig, this double bevel is easily replicated.
M42 At Your Lathe
Seven years ago, Paul Carter decided he wanted higher quality tools at his lathe. Tools that don't just work, but excelled. Familiar with it from the machining industry - M42 high speed steel was the clear choice. One cut at your lathe, and you'll be enamored, too.
High speed steel can be honed to a razor edge, and M42 takes this a step further with renowned edge retention. You'll find yourself walking to the grinder less, and turning more. Clean cuts, less grinding - it's a win-win.
When you are ready to touch-up the edge, M42 is quickly and easily ground on a conventional slow running grinder.
M42 At Your Lathe
Seven years ago, Paul Carter decided he wanted higher quality tools at his lathe. Tools that don't just work, but excelled. Familiar with it from the machining industry - M42 high speed steel was the clear choice. One cut at your lathe, and you'll be enamored, too.
High speed steel can be honed to a razor edge, and M42 takes this a step further with renowned edge retention. You'll find yourself walking to the grinder less, and turning more. Clean cuts, less grinding - it's a win-win.
When you are ready to touch-up the edge, M42 is quickly and easily ground on a conventional slow running grinder.
M42 At Your Lathe
Seven years ago, Paul Carter decided he wanted higher quality tools at his lathe. Tools that don't just work, but excelled. Familiar with it from the machining industry - M42 high speed steel was the clear choice. One cut at your lathe, and you'll be enamored, too.
High speed steel can be honed to a razor edge, and M42 takes this a step further with renowned edge retention. You'll find yourself walking to the grinder less, and turning more. Clean cuts, less grinding - it's a win-win.
When you are ready to touch-up the edge, M42 is quickly and easily ground on a conventional slow running grinder.