Indexer questions

[waynelocke]

I have been turning some 3" diameter straight columns with the Virtual Indexer Tool using a 1/2" bit with a .05 stepover and a speed of 300. I have only been doing the roughing pass because it seems good enough with a little sanding. What bits and speeds are others using? I have a PRT.

Also, has anyone used the new control box with the indexer?

[scottcox]

Hi Wayne! Looking forward to the camp!

I've turned some straight cedar columns with a 1/2in straight bit but took larger stepovers and ended up sanding more.

I recently did a raised relief column using a 1/2in straight for roughing, then a 1/2in ball nose for finishing and was impressed with the results from such a wide bit. It doesn't plunge well, but gives you decent 3d fast.