Is my bit going dull?

[04302296]

I have an order for three portraits to be made and starting having troubles by the second one. The first came out nice, the second started shredding, and by the time I got to the third one it completly damaged the portrait. Im using the 1/16 carving bit, on red oak with about 100 hours used on this bit. I set the carving to engrave 1/2". Attached are all three portraits so you can get a better understanding of what is going on.

[dbfletcher]

Going dull? I think you may be past dull. If I remember correctly, most people found it neccisary to replace their bits aftr 50-60 hours. The harder/more abrasive the material, the quicker the bit wears down.

[04302296]

Thanks Doug, I just wanted to be sure.

Jason Sawyer

[dbfletcher]

If it helps, I just normally watch the leading edge of a carve. If I get a lot of material "curling" on the leading edge intead of being cut cleanly, I know it's about time to change bits.

[04302296]

I just checked, Im at 60 hours and 30 minutes

[TerryT]

It may be dull. Depends on what you have been carving. But check your bit for wobble anyway. If you have the stock QC make sure your bit is properly seated and there is no wobble at all (not even a small amount). If you have the Rock or Carvetight check the spindle and y and z bearings to see if they may be loose.