Frequently Asked Questions
Why did you make the Ci1 EasyRougher?
Why did you choose Carbide?
How long will the carbide inserts stay sharp?
My insert doesn't seem to be holding it's edge as long as I've heard they do. Why is that?
Can you sharpen the carbide inserts?
Why is this tool not recommended for hardened tool rests?
Do you have "demo tools"?
What new tools are you working on?
Do you offer a modular or quick change EasyGrip handle?
Do you ship internationally?
Why did you make the Ci1 EasyRougher?
Our goal here at Easy Wood Tools is to step back and take a fresh look at the methods we use for our most passionate of hobbies, woodturning, and make every effort to eliminate the steps that decrease our enjoyment. Sharpening your turning tools has become such an accepted part of woodturning that most people can hardly separate the two in their mind. The time and costs associated with cutting edge maintenance is just considered ‘part of the craft’. One of the many reasons woodturners buy the Ci1 EasyRougher is the fact that they are sick and tired of sharpening due to the time and costs involved. They would simply rather be turning. You must admit that one of the reasons you are considering this tool is the unsurpassed edge retention of carbide and with this tool you just flip the insert to another edge for ‘no sharpening required’.
Why did you choose Carbide?
I had to make many choices in materials to get this tool system to where it would excel at the majority of turning conditions. Just one of those experiments was carbide grade selection. Not all carbide is the same. Carbide is BASICALY a mixture of tungsten powder and a cobalt binder. When choosing a carbide insert for ANY material cutting condition there is always the balance between sharpness and edge retention. High cobalt percentages equal high sharpness but does not hold there edge so long. Lower cobalt percentages equal not as sharp but more durability. They are very much like the carbide used in router bits and table saw blades.
How long will the carbide inserts stay sharp?
To our knowledge, most every customer to date has been extremely satisfied with the edge life and value of these cutters. With the variety of materials and sizes of projects, there is no definitive answer. We've had customers who have roughed out 50 turkey calls, and several bowl blanks go on to turn the insert to a fresh side only to realize that it was indeed still sharp and turn it back. You will be happy with the life of these carbide inserts but they will not last forever. Most who comment actually say the inserts exceed their expectations.
My insert doesn't seem to be holding it's edge as long as I've heard they do. Why is that?
I can say for sure that the one thing that will take the edge off ANY tool is sand. No way around it. I myself have been disappointed on some walnut blanks' sand content, even way down in the wood. When I get wood like this I have a few choices- I can constantly sharpen my old bowl gouge, or I can flip a few inserts on the Ci1 or at last, I can decide this wood might not be worth it. No one way is right. There are times I just rough the blank round with the Ci1 and then complete the bowl with a HSS gouge. Just what ever I am in the mood for; I like to mix it up a bit to keep it fresh. Sand is the biggest enemy of any cutting edge, so always remove the bark from your bowl blanks before turning.
Can you sharpen the carbide inserts?
We have tried many methods for re-sharpening these carbide inserts using diamond abrasives and have not been happy with the results. We could improve the dulled edge but never get it anywhere near the ‘factory’ sharpness. These carbide inserts are very well ‘sharpenable’ unless you have severally chipped them. You will need to invest in a variety of diamond abrasive grits to obtain the factory sharpness. When you consider the high cost of all the diamond abrasives required to further pursue this goal, you may find you are better off just investing in a few more inserts and keep on turning.
Why is this tool not recommended for hardened tool rests?
Robust Lathe Company makes the only hardened tool rest I know of. They epoxy a small hardened rod on a regular rest. The problem when using our tool on their rest is it dents the tool when used for very heavy roughing.
Do you have "demo tools"?
As a small business, we do not have “demo” tools. Hopefully, as our business grows, we will be able to comply with the many requests that we get each day. We do appreciate all of the support the woodturning community has given us so far and we strive to provide the best products and service that we can.
What new tools are you working on?
Our next tool will be a smaller version of the Ci1 called the Ci2 and will come handled only.
Do you offer a modular or quick change EasyGrip handle?
We are working on the Easy Grip Modular Handle but do not have it perfected just yet. It will basically be like the original Easy Grip hardwood handles in shape but be a bit longer and heaver on the grip end due to a metal insert. On the tool end it will have a brass insert to accept 5/8" tools and use a reducing bushing to go down to 1/2". The tools will be held in place with two set screws.
Do you ship internationally?
We use US Postal Service Express International Shipping. You must provide your TELEPHONE number as well as your complete SHIPPING ADDRESS for this service. Once you place your order through our website, we will send you a separate PayPal Invoice for the shipping costs. Once this invoice is paid, your package will be sent.

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