They are said to be very sharp as they are made of carbide steel. I have a set of really cheap Forster bits that cut way better than these! This purchase was a waste of time and money! I can never recommend this product! They are not safe to use as they break very easily. I was hoping to use them to hollow out parts on my lathe to save time. I can gouge a cup or bowl with a bowl gauge much quicker than working with it. You are garbage!