Even though a new generation of tool materials is now available which is revolutionizing machinability of a large number of work materials, the machining of titanium continues to be a problem. In the present paper an analysis of the main machining problems, chip formation, tool wear and wear mechanisms, are presented. Alternative methods of machining such expensive and difficult-to-machine materials are also indicated; these include the use of rotary and ledge tools along with ultrasonic assistance.