I've never been really happy with my parting tool/cut off tool solution and am starting to look into insert type cut off tools. I usually cut aluminum and mild steel on a manual lathe.
For a while I have been using carbide tipped cut off tools (http://www.use-enco.com/CGI/INSRIT?PMAKA=383-7292 . They seem to do the job, but I have to resharpen them fairly regularly when the carbide chips, or replace them when it breaks off alltogether. At 11 dollars each, their price is reasonable, but I haven't been blown away by their performance in cutting steel. I am assuming this is due to the zero rake angle.
Has anyone used the cut off tool kit from Enco, and if so how does it perform? http://www.use-enco.com/CGI/INSRIT?PMAKA=422-2914 I don't mind spending the money if it does a great job but don't want to plunk down 140 bucks for something that isn't an improvement. What are you guys using for cut off tools/parting tools?
Thanks in Advance.
-Matt