A tool insert is provided for increasing the operating life of a tool bit made of both the tool insert and an associated tool body. The tool insert provides at least partial protection from wear during use of the tool bit and includes a tip free of hard edges or creases that increases the operating life of the tip. The tip may include a portion that has a diameter at least equal to or larger than the diameter of the connection end of the tool body. This increases the shielding ability of the tool insert during use and extends the operating life of the tool bit. The tool insert may comprising a cylindrical stem for engagement with the tool body, the cylindrical stem having a free base end opposite a body end; and a tip connected for engaging a worked surface, the tip comprising an outer surface without hard edges.