Knurling Tool Options for Manual and CNC Machining
A knurling tool creates a patterned surface on a workpiece for applications where texture, grip, identification, or appearance matters. Knurling is commonly performed on cylindrical parts using wheels that create straight, diagonal, diamond, or other specified patterns.
Penn Tool Co. carries knurling tools for a range of shop requirements, including hand and lathe knurling tools, self-centering and quick-acting designs, CNC options, and individual knurl wheels.
You can also shop related Turning & Boring tooling when building out the rest of your lathe setup.
What Defines a Knurling Tool?
A knurling tool is used to produce a repeated pattern on the surface of a workpiece. In many lathe applications, one or more knurl wheels contact the rotating part and form or cut the required texture.
Knurling is often used on parts that will be handled, adjusted, or turned by hand. Common examples include knobs, handles, fasteners, grips, and machine components.
Unlike ordinary turning, the goal is not simply to reduce the workpiece to a specified diameter or create a smooth finish. Knurling intentionally produces a textured surface.
What Is a Knurling Tool Used For?
The exact purpose depends on the part, but a knurling tool may be used to:
- Add a textured gripping surface.
- Produce straight, diagonal, or diamond patterns.
- Add a specified surface pattern to cylindrical components.
- Create functional or decorative surface texture.
- Produce repeatable knurl patterns during manual or CNC turning operations.
For more background on the equipment used for turning operations, see Penn Tool Co.'s guide to lathe tools explained.
Types of Knurling Tools Available at Penn Tool Co.
Penn Tool Co.'s knurling category consists of more than a single holder and wheel. Choosing the right style depends on the machine, required pattern, diameter range, and production setup.
| Knurling Tool Type | How It Fits Into a Setup | Examples Available at Penn Tool Co. |
| Single-wheel knurling tools | Hold a single knurl for straightforward operations. | Precise single knurling tools and fixed-head Dorian Tool models |
| Pivot-head tools | Use a pivoting head and one or more knurls. | Precise pivot-head knurling tools |
| Self-centering tools | Position paired knurls around the workpiece. | Precise and Dorian Tool self-centering models |
| Quick-acting clamp tools | These clamp around the workpiece and are available for manual-lathe applications. | Precise and Value Collection quick-acting tools |
| Revolving-head tools | Provide multiple knurl positions or pairs in a rotating head. | Precise revolving-head models |
| Hand knurlers | Allow knurling operations using a dedicated hand tool. | Eagle Rock KnurlMaster, KnurlMonster, and internal-bore hand knurlers |
| CNC knurling tools | These are designed for CNC lathe or turning-center applications. | Dorian Tool self-centering CNC models and CNC bump-style holders |
Penn Tool Co. carries knurling tools and components from established manufacturers, including Dorian Tool, Form Roll, and Precise.
Single, Pivot-Head, and Revolving Knurling Tools
A relatively simple setup may only require a single-wheel holder. Penn Tool Co. carries single knurling tools as well as pivot-head configurations.
For shops that regularly change between patterns, revolving-head knurling tools provide another option. Penn Tool carries Precise revolving-head models with multiple pairs of knurls, allowing the tool configuration to accommodate more than one knurl setup.
Self-Centering Knurling Tools
A self-centering knurling tool uses opposing knurls positioned around the workpiece. Penn Tool Co. carries self-centering models for both conventional and CNC applications.
For example, the Precise Self-Centering Knurling Tool 230100 includes one pair of medium-cut HSS knurls. Other Precise self-centering models are available in different holder dimensions.
Penn Tool also carries Dorian Tool self-centering knurling tools specifically listed for CNC lathes.
Quick-Acting Clamp Knurling Tools
Clamp-type designs apply the knurling force through the tool rather than simply pushing a wheel against one side of the workpiece.
Penn Tool Co.'s Precise quick-acting clamp-type knurling tools are offered with manual lathe shanks. Penn Tool describes these models as absorbing knurling pressure through the tool, with straight and diamond pattern capability depending on the installed knurls.
Quick-acting models are available in different workpiece capacity and shank configurations, so specifications should be matched to the intended lathe and part size.
Hand Knurling Tools
Penn Tool Co. also carries hand knurling tool options. Current listings include Eagle Rock KnurlMaster and KnurlMonster models, as well as specialized hand knurlers for internal bores.
Hand knurling tools are used manually rather than mounted to a lathe tool post, so choose based on the intended application.
Knurl Wheels Determine the Pattern
The holder is only part of a knurling setup. The knurl wheel determines important characteristics of the pattern produced on the workpiece.
Penn Tool Co. carries individual knurl wheels, as well as knurl wheel sets.
Current Penn Tool listings include straight, left-hand diagonal, right-hand diagonal, and diamond-pattern options. Available wheel specifications also vary by diameter, tooth angle, pitch, face width, hole diameter, and material.
Common Knurl Patterns
There is not one universal classification limited to exactly three knurl types, but three of the most familiar pattern categories are straight, diagonal, and diamond.
| Pattern | Description | Penn Tool Availability |
| Straight | Parallel teeth create a straight pattern. | Straight HSS and cobalt wheels are available in multiple sizes and pitches. |
| Diagonal | Teeth run at an angle and may be designated left-hand or right-hand. | Penn Tool carries both LH and RH diagonal knurls. |
| Diamond | Intersecting angled lines create a diamond-shaped texture. | Diamond-pattern wheels, wheel pairs, and compatible tools are available. |
Different wheel combinations can also be used to produce particular patterns.
How Do You Knurl on a Lathe?
In a typical lathe knurling operation, the workpiece rotates while the knurling tool is positioned against it. The actual setup varies substantially by tool design.
At a high level, the process involves:
- Securely holding the workpiece in the lathe
- Installing a knurling tool compatible with the machine and application
- Selecting the correct knurl wheel or wheel pair
- Aligning the tool with the workpiece
- Setting spindle speed and feed according to the tool, wheel, workpiece material, and manufacturer's recommendations
- Applying the tool to establish the pattern
- Feeding across the required section when longitudinal knurling is needed
- Using appropriate lubrication or coolant when called for by the tooling and material
The exact procedure should follow the instructions for the knurling tool being used. If you're outfitting a turning setup, Penn Tool Co. also carries lathes for manual and CNC applications.
Penn Tool Co.'s complete guide to buying a lathe also explains how it works with different materials and operations.
What RPM Should You Use With a Knurling Tool?
There is no single RPM that is correct for every knurling operation. RPM (revolutions per minute) refers to spindle speed, which determines how quickly the workpiece rotates during knurling.
Spindle speed needs to account for factors including:
| Factor | Why It Matters |
| Workpiece diameter | RPM and surface speed are directly related to diameter. |
| Workpiece material | Different materials require different machining conditions. |
| Knurl wheel | Wheel material, diameter, pitch, and geometry affect the setup. |
| Tool design | Forming, cutting, bump-style, clamp-style, and other tools can have different patterns. |
| Feed | Feed must work with the selected wheel and requirements. |
| Manufacturer guidance | Tool and wheel manufacturers may specify recommended operating parameters. |
In inch-based machining, RPM can be calculated from a selected surface speed and the workpiece diameter, but the appropriate surface speed must be determined by the tooling and material requirements.
For that reason, choosing a universal RPM from a generic chart is not a substitute for the manufacturer's specifications.
Knurling Tool Accessories, Holders, and Replacement Wheels
A knurling setup may eventually require replacement wheels, pins, washers, bushings, screws, or other holder components.
Penn Tool Co. separates these into dedicated categories so buyers can find the component they need:
- Knurl Holder Parts & Accessories for compatible replacement and supporting components
- Knurl Holders for the tool-holding portion of the setup
- Knurl Wheel Sets for matched wheel combinations
- Knurl Wheels for individual replacement or application-specific wheels
Penn Tool's equipment includes HSS and cobalt knurl wheels, along with numerous wheel diameters, pitches, patterns, and other specifications.
What to Consider When Choosing a Knurling Tool
A knurling tool should be selected around the machine and part rather than the pattern alone.
Manual Lathe or CNC Machine
Start by checking how the product is intended to mount and operate. Penn Tool carries products specifically listed for manual lathes, conventional lathes, CNC lathes, and CNC turning centers.
For a broader look at equipment selection, read Penn Tool Co.'s guide on how to choose the right lathe for your workshop.
Workpiece Diameter
Check the specified capacity of clamp-style, self-centering, and similar tools. Capacity varies considerably between models.
For example, Penn Tool currently lists quick-acting holders in multiple ranges, including models intended for workpieces up to several inches in diameter.
Shank Size
The tool's shank must fit the intended holder or machine setup. Penn Tool carries knurling tools with both inch and metric shank sizes to accommodate different setups.
Pattern
Determine whether the job requires a straight, diagonal, diamond, cross, spiral, or other pattern before selecting the tool and wheels.
Wheel Material
Penn Tool carries both high-speed steel and cobalt knurl wheels. Material availability depends on the specific wheel design and specification.
Pitch and Tooth Geometry
Knurl wheels are offered in multiple pitch systems and tooth geometries. Penn Tool listings include wheels specified by TPI, circular pitch, and diametral pitch.
Replacement Parts
For equipment expected to remain in regular shop use, check the availability of compatible wheels and knurl holder parts and accessories before choosing a holder.
Manual and CNC Knurling Tool Options
Penn Tool Co. serves shops operating both conventional and CNC turning equipment.
Manual Lathe Knurling Tools
Current manual-lathe options include:
- Quick-acting clamp-style tools
- Single-wheel tools
- Pivot-head knurling tools
- Self-centering tools
- Revolving-head models
- Compatible knurl holders and wheels
These options give machinists different ways to approach occasional, general-purpose, or repeat knurling operations.
CNC Knurling Tools
Penn Tool Co. also carries knurling tools designed specifically for CNC turning applications.
Penn Tool's Quick Knurling Tool line is also described as suitable for conventional lathes and CNC turning centers, with individual configurations intended for different pattern types.
Why Shop Knurling Tools at Penn Tool Co.?
Penn Tool Co. has supplied machinists and industrial customers since 1968. Our knurling tools give buyers access to a broad mix of holders, wheels, wheel sets, and replacement components.
The current category includes products from Dorian Tool, Precise, Form Roll, Eagle Rock Technologies, Knurlcraft, GROZ USA, Value Collection, and Made in USA product lines.
That selection makes it possible to compare:
- Hand, manual-lathe, and CNC knurling tools
- Single-wheel, pivot-head, self-centering, clamp-style, and revolving-head configurations
- Straight, diagonal, diamond, cross, and spiral-compatible tooling
- HSS and cobalt wheels
- Different capacities, pitches, diameters, and shank sizes
- Individual tools, replacement wheels, matched sets, and accessories
Browse the available knurling tool listings above, or request a quote when you need help sourcing tooling for a specific shop requirement.
Frequently Asked Questions About a Knurling Tool
What is a knurling tool?
A knurling tool is tooling used to create a repeated textured pattern on the surface of a workpiece. Knurling tools may use one or more wheels and are available in configurations for manual lathes, CNC equipment, and hand-operated applications.
What is a knurling tool used for?
A knurling tool is commonly used to add a patterned texture to a cylindrical part. Depending on the component, the pattern may provide additional grip, create a specified surface texture, or add a decorative finish.
Common applications include:
- Handles
- Knobs
- Grips
- Fasteners
- Machine components
- Other cylindrical parts requiring a textured surface
What are the three types of knurling?
Straight, diagonal, and diamond are three common knurl patterns, although they are not the only knurling configurations available. Penn Tool Co. carries straight wheels, left-hand and right-hand diagonal wheels, and diamond-pattern wheels. We also offer tools capable of creating additional patterns such as cross and spiral knurls.
What RPM should you knurl at?
There is no universal knurling RPM. The correct spindle speed depends on workpiece diameter, workpiece material, wheel specification, tool design, feed, and the tooling manufacturer's recommendations.
How do you use a knurling tool on a lathe?
A lathe knurling tool is positioned against a rotating workpiece so its wheels create the required pattern. The setup generally involves selecting the appropriate wheels, mounting and aligning the holder, setting the correct spindle speed and feed, establishing the pattern, and feeding across the workpiece.
Always follow the instructions for the particular tool.
What is the difference between a hand knurling tool and a lathe knurling tool?
A hand knurling tool is operated independently as a dedicated hand tool, while a lathe knurling tool is mounted as part of a lathe or turning setup. Penn Tool Co. carries both types, including Eagle Rock hand knurlers and multiple manual- and CNC-lathe knurling tools.
Does Penn Tool Co. sell CNC knurling tools?
Yes. Penn Tool Co. carries knurling tools specifically listed for CNC lathes and turning centers. Current options include Dorian Tool self-centering CNC knurling tools and CNC single-knurl bump-style holders, along with Quick Knurling Tools.
What knurling tool accessories does Penn Tool Co. carry?
Penn Tool Co. carries a dedicated selection of knurling tool accessories and replacement components. Available categories include:
- Knurl holder parts and accessories
- Knurl holders
- Knurl wheel sets
- Individual knurl wheels
Individual product listings also feature items such as pins, bushings, washers, screws, and adapter components.
