For the smaller lathe, this uses a different kind of threading insert, but is 1/4" shank, so should fit the existing
lantern toolpost.
http://www.shars.com/1-4-indexable-carbide-turning-tool-set-1
Of course, if you can afford it, a AXA size Aloris QC tool post Chinese clone can be picked up
for around $100 or so with a few QC tool holders. They will probably hold at least 3/8" tool holders. There are
3/8" sets.
http://www.shars.com/3-8-indexable-carbide-turning-tool-set-1
I upgraded my previous Sheldon lathe to a QC Aloris clone tool post and tried some very inexpensive small
indexable cutters. The set I got from Shars have proven to be much better quality than the first ones I tried.
Mostly it comes down to how much can you justify and budget to put into upgrading. That is a question which
has different answers for each of us. HS tools and lantern tool posts are old tech, but still will do the
job reasonably well, so upgrading is a choice for each of us to consider. When money was tight, I stuck to
HS cutters and the original lantern tool post. Years later, as more money was available, I was able to afford
to upgrade.
Brad - I understood (after a few seconds of disorientation) what the camera was
doing. It is just the opposite of what I normally see.....pretty weird at first, like
you say, it seems like the chuck moves!
Just shows what changing our
reference coordinate system does to our percerptions.
It does show the cutter nicely, though.
Bill