Specialty Carbides vs. Carbides

So, what’s the difference?

Specialty carbides excel at removing gel and gel enhancements very quickly. These bits cut faster, smoother, and last longer than regular carbides. On the Gel X and Flame specialty carbides, the flutes (sometimes called teeth) are designed to protrude outwards to avoid getting gummed up with product. Specialty carbides smoothly shave off product and product will come off in bigger chunks, too. Regular carbides are not made to the same standard as specialty carbides. They are brittle because the material they’re made from (carbide) is a lower quality steel and the flutes may not be as precise and even.

 
The Gel X is great, especially if you’re new to specialty carbides. It is a tapered shape with a bald top so you can get around the side walls and cuticles nicely. Use the Gel X to remove product in strips down the nail. This bit is perfect to use for a balance when you want to maintain the structure of the nail but want to remove the existing gel, glitter, or foil. Techs love how smooth the Gel X cuts.

 
The Flame is very similar to the Gel X but is shaped like a football.This curve allows you to get closer to the cuticle area.This bit is perfect to use for a balance when you want to maintain the structure of the nail but want to remove the existing gel, glitter, or foil. A little more focus on the bit angle is necessary because of its curve.

 
The Piranha is crucial to remove bulk or 3D artwork. Its shape allows you to take off product super fast. This bit does not have protruding flutes like the other two.