Machining Tools
Last updated: 22 November 2025
Mitutoyo 0.0005" dial test indicator
I’ve had several cheap DTIs over the years, and they were usable, but I only realized how much I was struggling with them when I purchased this Mitutoyo DTI (used). Part number: 513-402-10
This became my main DTI - the one I trust. It’s reliable, repeatable, and the dial rotates smoothly without messing up the setup. There’s not much more you could ask for. I highly recommend it.
Noga dial indicator holder
While the magnetic base feels pretty similar to the Chinese copies, the arm is a completely different story. The Noga arm is very well finished and not only holds the indicator firmly without needing to overtighten the knob, but the fine adjustment also actually makes sense. You can gently tweak it until you get the DTI exactly where you want it, without ruining the setup - something I simply can’t do with my Chinese copies, which I pretty much stopped using right away.
The clamp, which you can buy separately, accepts 8mm or 9.5mm stems, as well as a small dovetail.
DIAMOND FILES
Of all my tools, this is probably the one I get the most questions about. These are inexpensive metal strips coated with synthetic diamond.
I use them constantly to deburr parts, especially after milling, as you can see in my videos. While a traditional file might be the more correct tool, I prefer these because they’re very easy to handle. I usually remove them from the plastic backing, or buy them without it (when I can find them), as I find that much more practical. They can even be bent or cut (from the back) to reach and clean up awkward shapes more easily.
The grits I use the most are 600 for finishing and 120 for rougher edges. 320 is also a very useful middle ground.
HSS-Co8 parting blade 3/32 (P2)
Parting off on the lathe used to be a painful operation for me. Buying this blade pushed me to make a spring-type tool holder for it - and then spend a good number of hours practicing.
The combination of the blade and the tool holder turned out excellent, and all that practice gave me the confidence I needed for the operation. Today, I mostly use this tool to part off softer materials (aluminium, brass, mild steel), which helps the tip remain sharp for longer.
If you’d like to see the tool holder build and the first successful operations, the video below shows the process.
OIL BOTTLES
These inexpensive bottles are very useful for cutting and tapping oils, as they allow you to apply just a few drops precisely where they’re needed, without creating too much waste.
They come with different needle sizes and lengths. I like to use one with a thin, long needle when parting off stock on the lathe.