Question for all the seasoned vets out there...

Does the Tialn coating on a carbide endmill increase the tool life enough to make it worthwhile for price? (Or any other coating for that matter?)

When I talk to my supplier, they tell me the coating adds about 20% to the tool life. Well, thats all well and good for say a 1" endmill that costs $120 uncoated and $150 for coated. Its almost worth it...

But if I look at smaller endmills, say a 1/4", its about $10 uncoated and $15 coated. Go even smaller, like 1/8" and the coating doubles the endmill price!

Supplier says I can run a little faster with the coated, but not much, maybe 5-10%. Thats not enough to make it worthwhile for me.

So what do you guys think? This is just a general question for all materials and conditions, but in particular, I'm thinking about a job where I'll be working in 316SS with some small cutters.