In this study, a procedure for analyzing chip-tool friction and shear processes in 3-D cutting with a single point tool has been established. The edge of a single point tool including circular nose is modified to the equivalent straight edge, then 3-D cutting with a single point tool is reduced to equivalent oblique cutting. Transforming the conventional coordinate systems and using the measured three component of cutting forces, force components on the rake face and the shear plane of the equivalent oblique cutting system can be obtained. And it can be possible to assess the chip-tool friction and shear characteristics in 3-D cutting with a single point tool.