My shop is vetting replacing several old and worn tool holders for our aging Captain, We currently have Eppinger live tool holders, two of them purchased within the last year. Even on the new ones, the bearings seem to be going south already, and I only have one tool holder I deem ridged enough for milling with a .5" end mill. We also have several static holders for round and square tools, that are worn well beyond preference, the newer Square tool Eppinger's are best I've used, but the live tools seem to lack quality, and it's quite awkward to change the tool they hold.

What is other peoples experience with VDI tool holders, what products are good, which ones should be avoided? If this goes through it will be quite an investment, and although it is not my money, I would like to get the best bang for the buck. After all, it is myself that will have to deal the result.

(On a side note, is it possible to retrofit our turret with one of a newer, better design?)