I don't think that the leveling bubble device is "silly" to the contrary, my description was "ingenious". I have no intention of trashing the tool but just to note that - for me at least - it would be unnecessary and might not provide the desired result.
For example, there are many, many applications where one doesn't even WANT the tool to be on center. One reference (one of many) is found on page 28 of the following:
http://campkahler.com/files/How_to_Run_a...B_1of2.pdf
Ignoring THAT bowl of worms, my point was/is that the best way of evaluating a cutting tool's performance is to make it perform. If a parting tool cuts to the center of the work, removing the tit, then IMO it is properly adjusted, regardless of whatever technique was used to get it there.
If it takes seconds, rather than minutes, to make a cut or two, adjust as required and lock the tool in place, so much the better.
How one determines the proper tool setting isn't particularly important, as you say, if the process is satisfactory. There are many methods, all of them successful when the operator applies them based on personal experience of what works ... The scribed line on the tailstock quill, by the way, was simply an example of one of those methods, not necessarily a recommendation.
I'm going to take a wild guess that the "General" scale sold by Walmart is not made in this country, if that's meaningful to anyone (besides moi).
For example, there are many, many applications where one doesn't even WANT the tool to be on center. One reference (one of many) is found on page 28 of the following:
http://campkahler.com/files/How_to_Run_a...B_1of2.pdf
Ignoring THAT bowl of worms, my point was/is that the best way of evaluating a cutting tool's performance is to make it perform. If a parting tool cuts to the center of the work, removing the tit, then IMO it is properly adjusted, regardless of whatever technique was used to get it there.
If it takes seconds, rather than minutes, to make a cut or two, adjust as required and lock the tool in place, so much the better.
How one determines the proper tool setting isn't particularly important, as you say, if the process is satisfactory. There are many methods, all of them successful when the operator applies them based on personal experience of what works ... The scribed line on the tailstock quill, by the way, was simply an example of one of those methods, not necessarily a recommendation.
I'm going to take a wild guess that the "General" scale sold by Walmart is not made in this country, if that's meaningful to anyone (besides moi).