I had a chance to try out the new lathe radius tool and here are some results and problems:
-Setting the radius is a bit of a challenge despite the instructions. I set up a 0.75" radius using a precise step guage and the ball being developed measures around 7/8" diameter rather than a 1.5" diameter. this just needs a little playing around.
-The handle is a bit too long and runs into the tool post. Despite being new, it may require a little surgery.
-the provided bit is just too sharp (it is almost an engraving bit). it just cuts into the material too much. we’ll need to replace this with something a bit rounder (as with our tool inserts).
-you’ll have to center this to the workpiece manually.
this is fun to play with. the tool is out on the lathe table for people to use. here are some ‘results’ pictures. it’s not pretty.
