I figured this might be the best place to post although it is technically a reloading question. For those who have to do it....what is the best lathe tool profile for turning brass? Specifically, I have to turn the belts off of .375 H&H brass for my .350 Rigby loads and would like to get a smoother finish than what I am getting. Tool suggestions???
Thanks in advance.

High speed or carbide? Tool bit should be a bit rounded at the tip, and a bit above center. Fast is good.

HSS
Thanks

quote:

Originally posted by Magnum Hunter1:
HSS
Thanks

+1 round nose most likely experiment with what your lathe likes best

And if you get tired of that, RCC makes 350 Brass (ain’t cheap by a mile), but supposed to be very good.

Tell us about your 350

HSS is much sharper than carbide, but for turning brass, anything will work. I just use regular carbide inserts. You can polish the area after you cut it, or not.

The recommended bits for turning copper and brass are HSS.

I used those years ago when I got my CNC lathe.

Tool bits did not last very long.

So I went for Carbide bits.

Never looked back.

The bits last for years.

I know this was not the question, but this is my answer:

Scotch-brite pads.

https://www.envirosafetyproduc...-hand-pad-6-x-9.html

Wonderful on brass, ally etc.

You are right; I use scotch bright pads and belts all the time.