Looking at dovetail cutters and would like to get opinions...

ScrapMetal

ScrapMetal

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I am in the market for some dovetail cutters for my mill (Wells-Index 860). I don't mind spending a bit more to get good cutting tools but I'm a little undecided if I should stick with HSS/Cobalt, try some carbide, or really go out on a limb and get the Dorian indexable dovetail cutter. (I really like the idea of the Dorian, but need to get some feedback on them first.)



Thanks much,

-Ron
 
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If you are not in a hurry for a pending job, why taking the fun off? Do it yourself, is an easy tool to make and you will learn. My advise is to make it with a single insert to avoid the problems related to variabilty and finish.
Remember that if you are doing this for fun, take your time and enjoy more.
 
Thanks much guys! I can actually use both projects on Steve's page. I hadn't thought of making the dovetail cutter but you are right, it would make a nice project.

I was already planning on making an arbor for some slotting saws so that section was a bonus!

I'll post back with some results once I have them.

-Ron
 
I just noticed in your sig that you have a shaper. Which begs the question; if you have a shaper, what are you doing messing around with dovetail cutters on a mill?
 
I'm going to try my hand at making a 1 flute and a 3 flute cutter when I get my new mill.
That way if the 3 flute doesn't work out I'll still have the single flute for backup.

Gary
 
One thing I learned in using the indexable dovetail cutter was, to take progressivley small cuts until you reach your desired dimentions.
Every pass your taking more material off, so first pass maybe .015 last pass .005
 
DMS said:
I just noticed in your sig that you have a shaper. Which begs the question; if you have a shaper, what are you doing messing around with dovetail cutters on a mill?
Click to expand...

My poor old shaper needs a ton of work before it is anywhere near operational. :o Still a good point though. I hadn't really thought about using the shaper for cutting dovetails.


GaryK said:
I'm going to try my hand at making a 1 flute and a 3 flute cutter when I get my new mill.
That way if the 3 flute doesn't work out I'll still have the single flute for backup.

Gary
Click to expand...

Sounds like a good plan. Remember the pics! :biggrin:

aliva said:
One thing I learned in using the indexable dovetail cutter was, to take progressivley small cuts until you reach your desired dimentions.
Every pass your taking more material off, so first pass maybe .015 last pass .005
Click to expand...

Thanks, will keep that in mind. I am a bit nervous about using a dovetail cutter in that they seem to be so fragile.

-Ron
 
ScrapMetal said:
Thanks, will keep that in mind. I am a bit nervous about using a dovetail cutter in that they seem to be so fragile.

-Ron
Click to expand...

Nice thing about making your own using tcmt inserts. Not fragile at all and if it breaks for some reason 5$ insert and you are cutting again, You can buy a 25$ 1/2" shank insert holder set that comes with 5 inserts. Use good inserts in the turning tools and the OEM in the dovetail cutter as they work well and hold up good. The softer carbide is right at home with the impact.

Steve
 
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