How critical is having the tool bit on center ? I have read different things about setting the tool bit slightly below for certain materials. This info did not pertain to Taigs but in general turning.

If I am correct the center never changes, why is the tool bit not at center to begin with ?

Anyway, I have 2 tool posts ready to go with a left cutting bit and a round nose, shimmed with brass sheeting, I shimmed the bits exactly to the center of the tailstock dead center, I guess this is accurate ? Looking forward to doing some turning tomm. or Sat.

Thanks Tony

You're right that the center of the lathe never changes, Tony. However, when you sharpen a new tool, or re-sharpen an existing tool's edge, you remove some material, so the top of the tool ends up below the center line of the lathe spindle.

Shimming the bits to the tail stock center will usually work fine.

A good way to check if you're really on center is to use a thin piece of metal and pinch it lightly between the tip of the tool and the outer diameter of your work piece. I use a small steel ruler for this. Then look at the ruler from the tail stock end. If the ruler is held straight up and down, (vertical) the tool is on center. If the top of the ruler tips a little towards the work piece, the tool bit is high. If the top of the ruler tips back, as in toward the operator, the tool bit is low.
It's an easy way to judge tool height quickly, and pretty accurately.

Dean
Shop Projects

Ah never thought of it that way, Duh !! All bits are not created equal. I'll try the rule method too.

Thanks Tony

This is one of the reasons I like my A2Z quick change (and why I started carrying their products.) It makes it very easy to adjust the bit height.

I like the look of the A2Z's but they are pretty dear in my opinion. One of my first projects will be a height guage, Gimme something to do while I think of the next project.

Tony