This paper presents the results of an investigation which compared tool life values obtained from three accelerated tool life testing methods : the facing method, the taper turning method, and a curtailed conventional method, with a ‘ full time ’ conventional testing method. In addition, the experiment was repeated, using tools having an artificial wearland prehoned on the cutting edge of a sharp tool to investigate the effect on data variability occurring with the prehoned wearland tools. The research was conducted under single point turning conditions, using disposable carbide insert tools. The tools and workpiece. materials were utilized in the ‘ as received ’ condition in an effort to try and duplicate actual shop usage as closely as possible. The tool life criterion value chosen was flank wear.