Best Lee Valley Easy Start Tools

Easy to master, these turning tools are scaled for smaller work, yielding remarkably smooth forms that require minimal sanding.

Unlike regular gouges, which require a complex sweeping motion to maintain a smooth cut, these work by simply advancing or retracting the tip as you move them across the tool rest. The tips are durable carbide for excellent edge retention; when they eventually show signs of wear, simply loosen the screw mount and rotate the tip to expose a fresh edge.

The rougher comes with a 7/16″ square tip for rapid material removal and accepts an optional 7/16″ cutter with edges rounded to a 2″ radius for work on curves. The detailer has a 1 1/16″ double-ended diamond-shaped tip that excels at cutting narrow beads and coves, as well as dovetail recesses for chuck jaws. The finisher has a 7/16″ diameter round tip for shaping and smoothing inside vessels or cutting coves on spindles.

Measuring 12 1/2″ overall, each tool has a solid maple handle, black-oxide steel shaft and nickel-plated steel ferrule. Excellent tools, made in the USA.