I bought some new carbide bits for aluminium and tried them on steel. My results were like
@Dabbler described. Very easy to take extremely fine cuts on very hard steel - specifically grade 8 bolts.
I was particularly surprised and impressed because I could do this during a facing operation which is something I have not been able to do with a shear tool.
I did not take measurements. However my experience suggests I was able to take cuts in the low tenths because I was able to progress from chips through fine steelwool and on to what could only be described as powder. I've done some beautiful finishes on steel before but this was the best I've ever done on a grade 8 bolt.
I admit I caught myself staring at the results with my mouth open in total disbelief.
I cannot wait to try this during an actual project on regular steels.
There will always be a place in my shop for HSS, but this does certainly does change things for me.
Many thanks to
@Dabbler &
@RobinHood for opening a new door for all of us.