Secure carbide inserts inside these holders for stable turning. They’re also known as indexable insert holders. Select a holder that’s compatible with your insert by matching the insert style and inscribed circle diameter (IC). Right-hand holders move from right to left toward the lathe chuck, left-hand holders move from left to right away from the lathe chuck, and neutral holders can cut in either direction.

C-code holders secure inserts with a top clamp, leaving space for you to add a plate-type chipbreaker between the insert and the clamp.

Holders with an offset shank are good for reaching into tight corners and when working close to the chuck.

These inserts are made with a black alumina ceramic on the cutting edges. Compared to carbide inserts, ceramic lasts longer in hardened-steel and cast iron tooling applications because it is chemically inert and has better heat resistance. Ceramic inserts have comparable wear resistance to cubic boron nitride, but ceramic is best for continuous and light cutting while cubic boron nitride can also be used in heavy interruption. These inserts have multiple cutting edges, so when a cutting edge becomes dull, rotate the insert in the holder to use a sharp edge. Larger nose angles and larger tip radii provide a stronger cutting edge but result in increased vibration and a rougher finish.

Positive-rake inserts have an edge that is less than 90° to sit flat in the holder for improved cutting clearance and a better finish than negative-rake inserts. They have cutting edges on one side of the inserts.

Inserts sold individually come packed in a clear plastic case to protect cutting edges during shipment. Inserts sold in packs come factory sealed from the manufacturer for maximum traceability.

Made for cutting fiberglass, carbide, and ceramic, these inserts have a PCD (polycrystalline diamond) edge that’s extremely hard and resistant to heat and wear. You can also use them on nonferrous metals like aluminum, brass, or bronze. They’re designed for continuous cutting conditions, which means the insert stays in constant contact with the workpiece. Use these inserts at the end of your turning process to finish workpieces—they remove minimal material and leave a smooth surface finish. They come factory sealed from the manufacturer for maximum traceability. Install them into a matching holder.

Inserts with a larger tip radius remove more material with each pass but cut less precisely than smaller inserts. Select the insert with the largest tip radius that still turns your workpiece to the desired shape.

Inserts with a shorter cutting edge are best for precision cuts and low-volume applications; a longer edge can handle deep cuts and heavy machining.

Positive-rake inserts stick out in front of the holder to reach tight spaces on the workpiece. However, they only have cutting edges on one side.