A parting tool with replaceable HSS blade copes with most of my parting off requirements though after reading Bog's article I shall be looking at further options.
The selection and use of cutting tools for the newcomer to model engineering can be a real problem. No moreso than when it comes to parting-off the machined workpiece from the bar stock in the lathe. To me, when I first set out, parting-off in the mini-lathe was a nightmare and I frequently avoided the issue by transfering the job to the vice and using a hacksaw.
It seems I am not the only one to find the parting-off operation tricky. The mini-lathe whilst being a versatile and affordable introduction to model engineering lacks the power and stability of its larger bretheren. I recall my delight when upgrading to a heavier more robust lathe the joy in being able to part off with comparable ease.
Now I am not suggesting that you should abandon your mini-lathe for something better as there are ways and means of significantly improving the outcome of your parting-off activities.
Bogs has written the first of a two part article which provides an overview of the various types of parting off tool currently available. Part two will cover machining techniques with useful tips on improving parting off results.