TBN degrees on bit

[applik]

I read on this forum somewhere (can't find it now) about different degrees on the 1/8" tapered ballnose bit for 3D. I think the one I'm using is 1.5 or ? I've been using this one on everything from pine to juniper. Seems ok but was wondering if different degrees would give different finishes. What does more degrees on the bit do?
thanks,
Shari

[billp]

Shari,
A lot of this depends on the total depth of the relief you are carving. Most "standard" 1/8"ball nosed bits that 'Botters use for carving have a 1 degree taper. When you are only cutting 1-2" deep this is negligible, and probably beyond most people's visual range. You'd really have to go deep for a 1 degree bit taper to "show up".
Places like MSC ( www.mscdirect.com (http://www.mscdirect.com)) sell bits with up to about 25 degrees of taper ( maybe more I haven't checked in awhile). These bits will obviously show their tapered cut more readily.
Sometimes you WANT a tapered cut ( such as when making masters for molds...). Software such as Artcam Pro lets you add "draft" through the software, but a tapered bit does the same thing. (This keeps the mold from getting hung up on the master when you remove it...).
Actually a tapered bit sometimes also "softens" the transition between levels on a 3D carving and when you run files through the previewer you can see the way some of the cuts blend into the next pass more easily.
And you can get some interesting effects by taking "2D"files, and running around the perimeters with a tapered bit. Sort of a "quick and dirty" 3D.....
As with many effects in the carving realm those that take chances and try new things, are usually the first to find new and wonderful results.....

[applik]

Bill,
Thanks for the "bit lesson". I've used the draft angle in Artcam on several things to soften the edge on something. But that degree taper thing was just not in my vocabulary. Now I get it so thanks for the info. Just wasn't sure if I needed different tapers for different woods or what. Here is an alligator juniper slab from our Rodeo-Chedeski fire in 2002 we carved the other day. Was surprised how easy it was. Smelled good too! The carving is only about an inch deep. The slab is 20 x 56" and 2.5" thick. Finally carved something other than pine and really enjoyed it. We get braver everytime we do something new. ;)
thanks again,
Shari

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