7 Best Full-Size Carbide Turning Tools: With Pros and Cons

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This post is for new and seasoned woodturners. If you’re new to woodturning, you’ve likely heard mixed opinions about carbide turning tools. This article aims to clear up common misconceptions and highlight the best full-size carbide tool sets for new and seasoned woodturners. These tools offer strong leverage, control, and efficient wood removal without frequent sharpening, thanks to their long handles (all over 12″) and removal tips. The reviewed sets range from 3 to 9 pieces. Read the full article for details, or click for the top recommended set.

Feel free to use the Table of Contents below to jump to the section that has the info you’re looking for.

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• Carbide Turning Tools Overview
• Best Full-Size Carbide Turning Tools Ranked
  • Best Overall: Asieg Carbide Tipped Turning tools set (9 Pieces)
  • Runner-Up: DEEFIINE Carbide Turning Tool Set (4 pieces)
  • Budget-Friendly: VINWOX Carbide Turning Tool Set (4 Pieces)
  • Best Value: Aogbra Carbide Tipped Wood Turning tools set (4 Pieces)
  • Best for Beginners: Asieg Carbide tools set (4 Pieces)
  • Best for All Skill Levels: Savannah – 7586 Carbide Turning Tool (3 Pieces)
  • Best for Seasoned Woodturners: Simple Woodturning Tools (3 Pieces)
• Carbide Turning Tools FAQs
• Carbide Turning Tools Final Thoughts

Carbide Turning Tools Overview

Here is a quick overview of carbide woodturning tools. To dive deeper into the topic, be sure to check out our HSS vs carbide tools post.

What are carbide woodturning tools?

Woodturning tools generally fall into two main categories. First, you’ve got cutting tools and then scraping tools.

These carbide cutters or carbide tools are basically scrapers. A carbide tool has a steel shaft, but unlike the HSS, it has a little blade that can be replaced.

So, all you need to do if it gets blunt, you take one of these little keys, and you can firstly just loosen the nut or the bolt and rotate the blade to a sharper area.

Once the tip is blunt all around, you unscrew it, then take a new one and replace it, so you’ve always got a sharp tip. Therefore, all the time you spend sharpening the tools with HSS is no longer needed.

What are the types of carbide woodturning tools?

There are typically four types of carbide turning tools you will see in the market.

Photo Credit: amazon.com

And about the insert/tips, you might see them in 5 different shapes:

• Square
• Radius Square
• Round
• Rounded point diamond
• Sharp diamond

Differences between carbide tools and traditional HSS tools

The primary difference between carbide and HSS tools is that carbide tools are mainly scrapers, whereas traditional gouges are for cutting wood.

Now, you need to understand the differences between cutting and scraping.

When you are cutting, you are getting the bevel support of a leading edge. The bevel is preventing the wood from being torn, that’s getting cut.

Whereas when you’re scraping, you’re only scratching the surface to remove the unwanted parts from the wood.

And so, you might end up with a junky finish without that bevel support. So, the big difference between traditional woodturning tools and carbide tools is that you can send ribbons flying across the room when you’re cutting with traditional gauges.

Traditional tools take a bit more practice and a bit more knowledge to know how to use them perfectly. But once you put in the time and the homework and gain that knowledge and put in the time to practice, then using traditional gouges can be gratifying. You can achieve a nice, clean finish by removing a whole lot of wood really quickly.

Now, it’s very easy when you’re cutting with carbide tools. It doesn’t take a whole lot of practice to learn how to use them. You can get to the shape immediately.

But don’t get overexcited, because at times, it might take a little bit longer for you to hone the skills with carbide, too.

Best Full-Size Carbide Turning Tools Ranked

Time to get to the main part that you may be waiting for. Here are some of the best options out in the woodturning industry.
As I mentioned earlier that each of them has a minimum 12″ long handle. So here goes my selection of these beautiful carbide cutters set.

Here is a chart of the top 5 carbide turning tool sets. A little further below is a chart of the remaining three.

Last update on 2025-07-01 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Best Overall: Asieg Carbide Tipped Turning tools set (9 Pieces)

Last update on 2025-07-01 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

As you can see, the Asieg carbide tools are a bit pricy, but they have their reason. I mean, you’re getting 7 pieces of carbide tips with two aluminum alloy handles. That’s the most tips of any of the kits reviewed here. So, basically, you are getting every single type of cutter here.

The set will include two pieces of Rougher, two pieces of finishers, one Detailer, one hollower, a single piece of Parting and Grooving tool, and lastly two pieces of Handle.

As I have already mentioned, the usability of the cutters so I am not repeating it.

The parting and grooving tool will provide a sharper effect and longer service life. You can find the replacement cutters in their store.
Lastly, I would say that this is one of the 9-piece sets that have literally zero worse/bad reviews from its users. I haven’t found any critical reviews online or anywhere, to be honest.

Runner-Up: DEEFIINE Carbide Turning Tool Set (4 pieces)

Last update on 2025-07-01 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

This set has fewer pieces and is cheaper than the Asieg but performs just as well. Many users highlight the solid construction and sturdy carbide tips. And find the bowl sander as a thoughtful bonus. My buddy and contributor here on the blog, Larry Edwards, started with this set and likes it.

While the set above comes with two handles, this set does only come with one. Don’t be confused like some buyers, those aren’t two handles but one handle and an extension. Otherwise, most people give this set 4 or 5 stars.

This set delivers professional-quality at a mid-range price. It’s well-suited for both beginners and seasoned woodturners seeking: 

• Interchangeable carbide tips for extended use without sharpening.
• Ergonomic design with good durability and portability.
• Added utility thanks to the bowl sander.

This set is ideal for woodturning hobbyists and small-scale craftsmen, and those wanting premium performance without a premium price.

Budget-Friendly: VINWOX Carbide Turning Tool Set (4 Pieces)

Last update on 2025-07-01 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

VINWOX Carbide Turning Tools are crafted from high-quality carbide and steel with an electronically ground tip. The tools have been engineered to be one of the finest on the market, providing excellent performance among all of their features. This precision tool set is essential for every technician’s workshop.

As stated on the Amazon website, the set includes:

• One 11.1×11.1×1.75mm 4-sided Square Shape Carbide Tipped rougher.
• One 12mm Diameter Round Shape carbide-tipped finisher.
• One 28x10mm diamond-shaped carbide-tipped detailer.
• One Peach Square Radius of 11.3×11.3×1.75mm with 4-sided 2″ Arc Square Radius Carbide Tip.

This toolset is excellent for different projects such as bowls, pens, spindles, posts, or other large or small furniture.

In addition, the replaceable inserts mean never having to worry about re-sharpening again! Instead, you can rotate the tip of the old one out when it gets dull and move on to the new edge!

You can cut tenons, rough turning, outside curves, or any heavy cuts precisely on the surface with the Carbide rougher that comes with the set.

The Finisher is mainly for general shaping and light finishing cuts. They are also perfect for inside curves and spindle coves.

There is a carbide detailer cutter, which is perfect for finishing touches as well as making small beads and coves. The sharp pointed tip allows you to cut chuck tenons and even roughing and finishing.

A precision radius cutter included in this set ensures crisp equalizing cuts inside smaller bowls, making pens or eggcups under 8” swings!

Overall, the price is reasonable, and I also liked the packaging inside a wooden case. One good thing is that the screws are Torx instead of Hex.

Downside:

Now, bad shipping can damage the QC of the tool, and you never know what’s going to happen during the delivery period.

There are negative reviews of the peach cutter being damaged, or the tools coming dull, etc. But I think this can happen to anyone with any product. You need to contact the seller instantly after noticing such issues.

However, I want to be honest with one thing here, that the weight of these tools is very light. Which can be a bit harder to control while turning a relatively big chunk.

Except for these, I think this is a great starter tool for anyone with a low budget.

Best Value: Aogbra Carbide Tipped Wood Turning tools set (4 Pieces)

Last update on 2025-07-01 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Aogbra Wood Turning Tools Set contains a variety of shapes and sizes in all three carbide tips so that you can tackle any project with skill, expertise, and confidence. This presentation storage box also comes with a T15 wrench for easy installation when you’re ready!

The toolset includes an 11” shank, 9.8” extension, one gooseneck hollow turning tool of 8.3”, aluminum shafts with stainless steel bar & carbide cutting head of a circle, square, or diamond each.

The aluminum handle features an anti-vibration grip that absorbs vibration for more control when turning wood pieces on the lathe. This prevents hand fatigue from vibrations caused by cutting on rough materials.

It also has a tool-less front chuck system to quickly change carbide cutter shafts in seconds – just unscrew the collet from one end of the handle and screw it into another!

One of the most important usability features is that you don’t have to worry about sharpening your carbide tip when it gets dull, just flip it over to work with a new edge! This only takes seconds, and it makes working with this tool so much easier.

Downside:

The bevel-up carbides are indeed an excellent set of tools. But it’s essential to understand the measurements they use. They list these as being 12mm-14mm thick when in reality, they are 10mm-3/8” thick.

This is a big difference and will make some turnings impossible with this size blade if you want to cut out anything larger than 8”.

I also noticed another complaint – there aren’t many places that sell replacement blades for this brand. You’ll have to do a lot of digging through different sites just to find one company that has them at all, let alone the exact size you need. It would be easier for everyone if they were more honest about the sizes.

Last update on 2025-07-01 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Best for Beginners: Asieg Carbide tools set (4 Pieces)

Last update on 2025-07-01 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Turn your rough cuts into a fine finish with ease using the ASIEG Carbide Tipped Wood Turning Tools Set! With lightweight aluminum alloy Construction, these tools offer an easy balance and help provide the user with more control over long periods.

In addition, the full-tang blades are made from Tungsten Carbide for increased durability. They come in several different thicknesses to suit any application.

The features make it stronger, stiffer, and less likely to roll than round shaft tools. These mid-size woodturners are CNC machined from square Stainless Steel, so the flat back can be kept level with the floor when in use. Features a matching 1-piece black aluminum alloy handle for strength during extended heavy use or DIY periods.

The Asieg Carbide Tipped Wood Turning tools set offers a lifetime edge. This stick-shaped tool is the perfect tool for beginners to experience the joys of woodturning and for advanced turners looking for a fresh edge.

In addition, you’ll be able to find replacement products on Amazon in their store.

The rough turning bar has 14mm square carbide inserts, while the finisher bar offers a 16 mm round carbide insert, and details bars offer 12mm round carbide inserts on each end with a variety of diameters (7/8” or 1”) as your needs change across various types of working pieces.

In addition, the Swan Neck Hollower Bar contains an 18 mm Square Carbide Insert, providing relief when cutting large bowls from scrap stock.

Downside:

To be honest, I haven’t found any bad reviews from the users who bought it online.

However, you’re welcome to do your research, though—best of luck.

Best for All Skill Levels: Savannah – 7586 Carbide Turning Tool (3 Pieces)

Last update on 2025-07-01 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Savannah 3 Piece Carbide Turning Toolset is great for woodturners of all skill levels. The twisting can use these three tools to cut through hardwoods, softwoods, and acrylic securely and efficiently.

The solid 13½” wood ash handle is comfortable to hold and, with the rubber grip, reduces hand fatigue. You have one diamond-shaped tool measuring about 6 5/8” with the diamonds faced up, one round tool that measures approximately 6-9/16”, and a square radius at 6-9/16”.

The handles are more than just convenient because they also provide stability while also being ergonomic. So whether your turning hobby is weekend labour or you’re a professional right out of school—these tools will satisfy.

Lavishing in our craftsmanship, these three sets of turning tools are the perfect accessory for your workshop needs.

If you’re looking for a new set of tools, you can definitely rely on Savannah.

Downside:

Beware of how they package it, and be careful when removing the protective caps. I don’t know why it comes with black plastic caps instead of a wooden case or something. This can get very annoying.

As these are incredibly sharp at the tips, you may have difficulty removing/putting the caps on the tool. Don’t hurt your fingers.

Best for Seasoned Woodturners: Simple Woodturning Tools (3 Pieces)

Last update on 2025-07-01 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Simple Woodturning Tools is a family-owned CNC machining and manufacturing company in Minnesota, USA.

They are now available in 3 great sizes: the 9/16” diameter cutter, enough supplies to convert one tool to a variable-speed tool with a quick-change speed dial.

If you know how to use your hands and want results without having to drill holes or make other modifications, then these quality carbide cutters are for you! They come fully assembled, so they are ready to go right out of the box.

With just a straight cut, you can turn 50% faster than traditional woodturning tools because of their unique cutting edge that cuts like butter and has no catches.

Set your workbench apart from all the rest! This 3-piece woodturning toolset includes a 90° square rougher, 9/16” diameter turner & hollower, and a 55° diamond detailer with a T15 and a T20 Torx star tip to rotate these cutters.

The CNC machined cutters are 1/2” wide solid stainless steel, which means they’ll stay sharp for as long as you need them to. Handle length is 17”.

Rustproof aluminum handle will last forever and stays cool to touch even after hours of use, so it’s great in high humidity environments too! Solid foam grip provides just the right amount of resistance without feeling too slippery.

Feel without limits and know no bounds with the purchase of our Simple Woodturning Tools Carbide Cutters. The perfect set for any aspiring woodturner, the high-grade stainless steel tools will effortlessly finish your next project with sharp detail and accuracy.

From rough cutting to finishing, these cutters will carve their way into the heart of anyone’s imagination to create images that become a reality before your very eyes.

Downside:

Sometimes, the blade/tip gets dull too quickly. Besides, they only come with one handle, and it takes time to disconnect and change the blades. Also, having one handle could be a pain sometimes.

Except for that, I like this carbide set. They are genuinely satisfying and have great value for the money.

Carbide Turning Tools FAQs

Are carbide turning tools the best choice for a beginner?

Now, should you consider carbide turning tools if you’re a beginning or a hobby woodturner who just bought one of the best wood lathes for beginners?

-Definitely!

You can get started with them right out of the box and achieve good results without much practice.

Though you may have to spend some extra time sanding, that’s offset by the fact that they cut faster and don’t require you to stop to resharpen mid-project.

The replaceable cutters can be pricey, but much less expensive than traditional sharpening equipment. And a simple diamond hone can significantly reduce the frequency of replacement.

Of course, if you want to do things the “right” way, you’d be wise to invest in a proper lathe tool sharpening system, like the ones I recommend here.

It’s also worth noting that carbide turning tools can be safer as they are less prone to catching.

And even if they do, the result will be much less violent than what can be experienced with traditional high-speed steel tools.

Is the extra cost of a carbide turning tool worth it?

All this convenience does come with an additional price. Carbide cutters do eventually need to be replaced, and making cost between fifteen and thirty dollars each.

But a hobby turner will likely only replace them once or twice a year, and the cost is much less than sharpening equipment can be.
It’s also worth noting that carbide cutters can be sharpened very easily using a simple diamond hone, which can significantly reduce replacement frequency.

So, pretty much worth it for me.

What does a veteran turner think of them?

The veteran turners will argue that traditional tools leave a better surface behind, but it does take more skill to use traditional tools.

When you scrape wood fibers, particularly the end grain and every cove and curve on your turning, you’re tearing at the fibers. This leaves a rougher surface behind, which requires a lot of sanding to smooth out.

Now, they’re not wrong, to be honest. You do end up doing more sanding on a project made with carbide tools. Though the extent can be reduced by taking very light finishing passes.

So, suppose you’re a veteran turner who has already invested the time and effort into developing his skills with traditional tools. In that case, I can see why you would prefer those, especially for those finishing cuts.

It’s worth noting, however, that even many pro-turners do like to use carbide for the initial shaping of their projects. These tools remove material much faster and without the frequent resharpening along the way.

And those who prefer to turn exclusively with carbide argue that they would rather spend extra time sanding than significantly more time learning to use and sharpen their tools more effectively.

Why do some people love them, and others prefer high-speed steel?

Some people think carbide turning tools are the greatest thing to happen to this craft since the variable speed lathe.  Others say high-speed steel is still the way to go.

Why so much debate? Mostly, it all comes down to ease-of-use and sharpening.

Traditional HSS: Let’s start with traditional high-speed steel tools.

They require more skill and finesse. You don’t just walk up to the lathe and start turning. Each tool has to be held differently so that the bevel meets the wood at the proper angle.

And using them correctly is a skill that takes time to learn. If you’re interested in an HSS tool set, then head over to our best woodturning tools post.

Carbide tools: Carbide tools, on the other hand, can be used with good results the very first time you pick them up. This is because you don’t have to concern yourself with bevel angles. Instead, you hold the tool parallel to the floor and plunge it forward.

That’s because the carbide cutter is actually a scraper. So you aren’t sharing the fibres like you would with the traditional chisel. Instead, you’re just scraping them away.

It doesn’t matter if you’re using a square, round, or pointed tool; the scraping action is the same. So you don’t have to change the way you hold the tool according to its profile on the end, as you do with traditional high-speed steel tools.

That fact eliminates a considerable amount of the learning curve when it comes to woodturning, and it is mainly why beginner turners love carbide tools. Follow this link to read more about HSS vs carbide.

Carbide woodturning tool sharpening and maintenance

I was initially drawn to carbide turning tools because I like the idea of never having to sharpen them. With traditional tools, you have to sharpen frequently, which takes you away from the project and requires a whole new set of skills.

Yes, sharpening is a skill that you have to have (see our post about how to sharpen lathe tools). You may be able to grind a simple bevel on a bowl gouge quickly, but different tasks require different bevel shapes. There’s a lot more to sharpening woodturning tools than woodworking chisels.

That often means additional investment in a sharpening system in various jigs. And an even greater investment in time, both in learning the sharpening skills and repeating them frequently throughout your project, as the tools become dull.

While carbide tools don’t require sharpening, you can learn more about sharpening carbide lathe tools. The cutting edges can last, depending on the task and the quality of the carbide, 25 to 100 times longer than just high-speed steel.

Since many tools can be refreshed by rotating the cutter to one of four cutting edges, some turners report that while they used to stop and frequently sharpen while turning a single large bowl.

Can you get the carbide as sharp as HSS?

About this argument, it’s true that you can’t. Though very high-quality carbide can still get really sharp. It can get plenty sharp enough for woodturning.

You can get a hand plane iron so sharp that it will shave the hair on your arm, but you can only take so many feet of shavings before that edge is considerably less sharp.

It takes a while with a hand plane. But imagine when those shavings are spinning into your cutter at 2,000 rpm, you can go through those same feet of material very quickly.

My point is you can get your tool as sharp as you like, but just as soon as you put it to wood, which is an abrasive material, it’s going to dull to at least the sharpness of a carbide tool pretty fast.

So, the advantages of Steel compared to carbide when it comes to sharpness are minimal.

Carbide Turning Tools Final Thoughts

Carbide tools are a great investment because they last longer than steel or HSS. They can be flipped over to continue cutting with fresh carbide teeth, which is easier and faster than sharpening.

So, if you’re thinking of getting into woodturning or even if you’re a veteran turner looking for the best way to remove material fast, you should check out those full-size carbide woodturning tools.

And for your first project, why not a wooden mallet? Slap a couple of coats of boiled linseed oil on, and you’ll have a great tool you made yourself, and maybe a whole new hobby, and woodturning.

I highly recommend using the Asieg Carbide Tool Set. They are giving you almost everything for just under 200 dollars and have got very decent reviews as well.

Once you have your new tools, be sure to check out our woodturning tools sharpening tips!

Turn Big, Turn Safe. Welcome to the turning world!

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