Heck, sounds more like the bolt failed you than the rod, didnt it?

5 flute on 4340 is a wash in my book. I ran the same test last year on a 1 inch rougher, same feed and speed, and got maybe 5 percent better cycle time. 22 percent sounds like your old 4 flute was either dull, had bad coating, or the chip geometry was all wrong. Plus you said feed went up 30 percent, that's not just flute count, that's a whole different tool design. Flute count matters for chip evacuation and engagement, but it doesn't magically give you that kind of jump unless you were leaving a ton of material on the table before. I'd bet money your rep sold you a better grade of carbide too, not just more flutes.

Man, that's a solid find! I did the same thing with broccoli florets last month, ended up roasting them straight from the freezer and they got all crispy on the edges, way less hassle than chopping. Now I'm weirdly scared to go back to fresh greens, feels like I'm paying for the privilege of doing extra work.

Did they argue about politics the same way we do now?

Man, you went from a $120 debate to an $18 "hold my beer" and it worked? That's either genius or the universe just messing with you before the boot falls apart mid-hike.