As mentioned in another post I just purchased a Stuart Batty 1" skew and carbon fiber handle. The skew I was using previously was smaller and as I'm now finding out a lot duller. I practiced a little with the new tool this morning and was amazed how much a difference a good sharp tool makes. The tool attaches to the handle in a unique way in that it screws into the handle for quick and easy tool changes. The salesperson also pointed out that the handle is made so as not to roll around on a lathe bed, apparently a feature that is a problem with turned wood handles. A different version of the tool was also pointed out to me where the cutting blade is laminated into a non-hardened steel holder. I didn't get one but thought it was a good idea. It should cut down the overall cost of tool replacement. I'm sure this is all old news to most of you but being a novice turner it was all new to me.