Sorby Excelsior Bowl Gouge Blade, 3/8 in. is a high-performance bowl gouge blade crafted from high-speed steel and enhanced with a titanium nitride (TiN) coating that significantly improves its edge retention. Known as the "master tool" for bowl turners, it excels at both heavy profiling cuts and delicate finishing work. With a standard tip grind and an overall length of approximately 12 inches, this blade is designed for durability and precision. Part of Robert Sorby’s Excelsior range, this tool is specifically engineered for connoisseur wood turners and those working regularly with hardwoods. The plasma-bonded TiN finish over triple-tempered high-speed steel delivers exceptional longevity and hardness, outperforming traditional steel tools and even tungsten carbide. The cutting edge boasts a Rockwell hardness equivalent of 80, allowing it to outlast standard tools by up to four times. The combination of the TiN coating and high-speed steel not only prevents chipping and brittleness but also makes sharpening easier. Additionally, the TiN coating reduces friction between the blade and wood, making it especially effective when working with hard, abrasive woods or knotted burrs. This means more time spent turning and less time sharpening, enhancing your woodworking experience. Model Number: B842G100