An axial hob (14) with cutting teeth (16) which are arranged around a cylinder (19) in a helical pattern. The cutting front (18) is perpendicular to the helix. The re-grindable blade thickness is oriented in the direction of the helix lead direction. While the tool rotates, the active cutting front changes from one blade to the next which, depending on the hand of rotation, is an advanced or retracted position. However, the rotation will not give the individual blades a chip removing motion but only position the following blade in an advanced or retracted location, such as in a gear slot to be machined.