You might post this on Rec.crafts.metalworking to get a bit more
exposure from those that use lathes. Better yet google for info as
this has been discussed a lot.

I would try to plug into any local groups and meet some people that
have the same interests as you do. In Seattle there is a yahoo group
devoted to local folks that do metalworking.

You can't use key stock for lathe bits. Starting to sound like a
troll, with that question. Try Enco, J & L, MSC, or in the Seattle
area, Boeing Surplus.

Dan