Thread: A bit down in the mouth

Feeling a bit crappy after today's session, but I have the cure.

Order some more tooling from CTC Tools.

I spotted this post recently on the Home Shop Machinist formum. The author of the post had this to say.

"This is by far the best indexable mill I have tried and it has subsequently become my go-to mill for facing and rough milling as it effortlessly removes several millimeters of steel in a single pass and with an excellent finish".

He was describing a 45 degree indexable milling cutter from CTC Tools.
The best indexable mill I have tried(so far). - The Home Shop Machinist & Machinist's Workshop Magazine's BBS

I've checked the prices, $16.75 for the cutter head and $29.75 for 10 inserts. All up less than $70 including postage.

Before I order one, have you guys had any experience with this item?

Ken

I have had one for a few years but have only used it to knock the corners off things to a 45 degree. It works great for that, haven't tried to use it as a face mill like in that thread.

Dave

Hi Dave,

If you get a chance, would you be prepared to try it out as a face mill. In fact, go and try it now while the kettle's on, we can wait. I reckon it would really rip into aluminium.

If it works, the only disadvantage I can see is not being able to machine up to a shoulder.

Ken

On the thread in your link they say they are great to use for a roughing face mill taking off several mm in one cut.

Dave

neksmerj
Ken, I have the 32mm version of the CTC tool and mostly use it for chamfering edges. I have used it for facing on steel and aluminium as well, it does a pretty good job and leaves a good finish. You can obtain a better finish with a single tooth cutter eg fly cutter.
Bob