Nice work my man.
Ray, would you mind talking a bit about how to get different finishes?
OK, I can start the discussion now but, I have errands today. Also, I want others to write in and share their experiences as we can all learn...
I want to reiterate that it's more important at first to attain the ability to turn to a specific diameter regardless of the finish. There are different things to learn and if you take it step-by-step like this, you will not encounter evolving, simultaneous problems. Also, I'm not an expert on using high-speed-steel bits. I do indeed use them for specific purposes but not for general purpose cutting; as such, my bag of tricks is limited.
Keep in mind that as you turn a piece of unknown metal, several things are going on. Since the metal is unknown, it may have layers of hardness that impact finish. Harder metal cuts with a cleaner finish (up to a point -but then gets ragged for really hard metal) and as you cut into it, the piece evolves as you reach the softer core. Also, as the diameter decreases, you need to adjust your RPMs to attain the proper SFM cutting rate. This adds a layer of variability if you have a machine with few speed steps or don't have a variable speed lathe.
Keep the above things in mind as you progress.
In general rougher finishes are done with a pointier bit and a slightly faster feed rate. Smoother finishes are the opposite... slightly rounded point with moderate to slower feed rates. On smooth finishes, the vibration in your lathe setup makes all the difference in the world -so that's a area to watch out for.
The real battles to overcome in either case, is knowing what feed/speed to use and depth of cut. When I come back, I'll cover some examples. Later today, I was planning on setting-up some HSS bit holders because, in the last couple weeks, they've gotten out of whack. I'll take some pics... In the mean time, others are encouraged to share their thoughts....
Ray