1/2 in. Tool holder?mistake?

[bfi]

So I had a 10 in Powr-Kraft lathe tlc15-2136 follow me home a couple of weeks ago. Been busy cleaning it and replacing a few missing parts. I bought a Bostar axa wedge qctp. Then this is where I might have made my first mistake, buying before completing my research! I bought a axa master turning and boring set from Precision Matthew’s with 1/2 tool holders. I now see that it’s better to use 3/8 tool holders. What are your suggestions? I can grind some off or the bottom of the holders to lower the tool insert, or I could cut and weld the holder in a slight offset to lower the insert to center line of material being machined. FYI I am not a hobby /novice welder. I’m a retired nuclear maintenance technician certified welder for many years. What are your thoughts? Leave as is or modify? Thank you so much, I have much to learn about matching and using a lathe.

 

[ChazzC]

A 10" lathe fitted with a AXA QCTP should be prefect for 1/2" tool holders.

I have a 0XA on my 7x16, and use 3/8" tool holders; I have a 1/2" cutoff holder that fit, but I needed to mill the bottom dow so I could get the insert on center:

 

[matthewsx]

So I had a 10 in Powr-Kraft lathe tlc15-2136 follow me home a couple of weeks ago. Been busy cleaning it and replacing a few missing parts. I bought a Bostar axa wedge qctp. Then this is where I might have made my first mistake, buying before completing my research! I bought a axa master turning and boring set from Precision Matthew’s with 1/2 tool holders. I now see that it’s better to use 3/8 tool holders. What are your suggestions? I can grind some off or the bottom of the holders to lower the tool insert, or I could cut and weld the holder in a slight offset to lower the insert to center line of material being machined. FYI I am not a hobby /novice welder. I’m a retired nuclear maintenance technician certified welder for many years. What are your thoughts? Leave as is or modify? Thank you so much, I have much to learn about matching and using a lathe.

How many tool holders are we talking about here? Will PM accept a return if they’re not suitable for you?

1/2 should work but if somehow it doesn’t allow you to get on center I’d be more inclined to modify the tool holder as above.

Will be watching your threads for welding advice….

John

 

[woodchucker]

I have a 9" southbend, I use 1/2 no problem.
I prefer the big cutters mostly.

 

[jwmay]

Whatever you’re comfortable with. There’s a half dozen solutions with all the same result. I’d probably do whatever is quickest for you, according to the tools and skills at your disposal,

 

[WobblyHand]

I use 3/8" tooling in AXA quite frequently. A lot easier to grind 3/8 HSS than 1/2.