Ashley Harwood 5/8" Push Cut Bowl Gouge with Bolster
Here are the specs:
• 5/8” diameter
• Parabolic flute with rounded top edges for comfort
• M2 Steel hardened to 63 Rockwell
• 40/40 grind - comes sharp and ready to go
• Polished inner flute surface for a longer lasting cutting edge
• Made in the USA
• Designed by Ashley Harwood
This gouge is specifically designed to be more comfortable and easier to use for the push cut style of turning. The parabolic flute shape is optimal for easier sharpening and use. Having a continuous curve on the inside of the flute allows for an easier transition from wings to nose while sharpening than a V shaped flute, for example, - it decreases the chances of having a “dip” by the nose of the gouge. The top edges of the flute are slightly rounded, making for a more comfortable grip (as opposed to sharp edges at the top of the flute that can cut your fingers). It is made in the USA, from M2 tool steel that has been hardened down the entire length of the tool to 63 Rockwell. Some manufacturers use induction heat treating, which results in a tool that is hardened at the tip, but becomes softer and softer towards the back end of the tool. These tools are heat treated in a vacuum furnace which means they do not get softer with sharpening over time.
Every gouge I sell comes with the grinds that I use, and for this one, it's the 40/40 grind - a 40 degree sweep on the wings, and a 40 degree consistent bevel angle. I personally sharpen each tool before shipment. The inside of the flute has been hand polished in order to yield the best and longest lasting cutting edge. Of all the tools I use, this is my workhorse.
I use this 5/8" diameter gouge for roughing and shaping bowls and spindles.
This tool is sold un-handled but does come with the AH Bolster. I recommend the AH Tools 16 inch taper-lock handle to use with it for bowl turning.
I have been selling woodturning tools consistently since I began teaching in 2011. My tool business is home grown and self funded. I only sell the tools that I believe to be the very best for my students and customers and I stand behind my products 100%.