Value Collection 460-6128 M42 Cobalt Tool Bit Blank 5/8 in Square

Product Description

The VALUE COLLECTION 460-6128 is a solid M42 cobalt tool bit blank designed for machinists and toolmakers who grind their own cutting tools to custom profiles. Measuring 5/8 inches wide by 5/8 inches high with a 4-1/2 inch overall length, this square-profile blank provides the raw stock needed to fabricate lathe bits, form tools, and single-point cutters. M42 cobalt high-speed steel offers higher red hardness than standard M2 HSS, making it well suited for cutting harder workpiece materials at elevated temperatures without losing edge retention. Weighing 0.53 pounds, it is a dense, full-cross-section blank ready for bench grinding or surface grinding to the required geometry.

This tool bit blank is used in machine shops, maintenance facilities, and toolrooms where standard off-the-shelf insert tooling does not meet the required profile. It is appropriate for manual lathes, shapers, and screw machines where brazed or ground HSS tooling is still the preferred approach. Machinists grinding form tools for threading, grooving, or radius work will find the square cross section practical for orienting the blank in multiple positions during grinding. It is sold individually and is a stock item for shops that maintain a supply of blank tool stock.

Key Features

• M42 cobalt high-speed steel for superior red hardness and wear resistance compared to standard M2 HSS
• Square cross section at 5/8 inches by 5/8 inches allows multiple grinding orientations
• 4-1/2 inch overall length provides adequate stock for grinding and re-grinding over the tool life
• Unground blank format lets the end user grind any custom cutting geometry required
• Consistent cross-section dimensions for reliable tool post fitment in standard 5/8-inch tool holders

Compatibility

Designed as a general-purpose HSS tool bit blank compatible with standard 5/8-inch tool posts and holder blocks used on manual engine lathes and similar machine tools where ground HSS tooling is required.

Installation Notes

Grinding of HSS tool bit blanks should be performed by a qualified machinist using appropriate wheel dressing and coolant practices to prevent overheating the blank, which can soften the cutting edge. Eye protection and a proper tool rest are required when using a bench or pedestal grinder. Ensure the tool post set screw is fully tightened and the ground tool is seated flat before taking any cuts. Follow shop safety procedures and applicable OSHA standards for grinding operations.