I made one some years ago for the sole purpose of making a steel between centres test bar (dumbbell type with two raised bands) for setting the tailstock on centre as I didn't have access to suitable grinding equipment. The finish on the bands still looks polished. I haven't used the tool again.

Martin C

The shear tool works really well on a shaping machine for finishing cuts.

You can see the shape of the tool and how it works here.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-CWGScRNXfw

Phil

Edited By Phil P on 25/10/2020 13:48:16

Here is the setting tool I made some time back and the shear bit I made to make it. In use somewhere along the cutting edge is used, not a corner. The top picture shows how the tool is presented to the workpiece, very slow power feed is used.

Martin C

The simplest way to make one is similar to a flat-ended d-bit. Grind a step on a length of round HSS to half diameter, grind relief behind the cutting edge.

Fitted in a simple round holder (e.g. a boring bar holder) with the mid point approximately at centre height, you just rotate the tool for the most effective result. Ideally you are taking cuts of a thou or less.

Neil

Sounds like using a square toolbit, with the end ground at an angle, and mounted so that it is below centre height would do the job?

Must give it a try!

Howard

Have a look here..

**LINK**

I made one last year based on the above; works nice giving a fine finish in trials. I'll take a pic of mine later & post.

George.

Have tried making one, although not quite in the form shown.

Based on the first couple of cuts, it looks to be an interesting tool.

Thanks for bringing it to our attention!

Howard