AbstractEvaluation of the cutting tool is an important aspect when a machining process is monitored. At this time, microgeometry of the cutting edge is very frequently used term. It has a great influence on the cutting process and it is necessary to know how correctly to measure parameters of the cutting edge to ensure reliability and repeatability.Nowadays, many devices exist on the market which can be used for measuring the cutting edge. They are based on tactile or optical principles. Parameters of the cutting edge have a great influence on tool life and therefore it is important to measure them correctly. Primarily the radius of the cutting edge and the K factor is usually monitored.This paper deals with measuring parameters on the cutting edge such as radius of the cutting edge, K factor and roughness of the surface, chipping, and their evaluation when machining special alloy Inconel 718 which is used mainly in the aerospace industry. Other measuring methods for tool life will be presented.