In this study, an experimental and theoretical program were carried out to determine the cutting forces and chip formation at different cutting speeds using a 0.4mm nose radius ceramic insert and -7 rake angle for non heat-treated AISI 4140 (27HRc) and heat-treated AISI 4140 (45 HRc) steel. The results obtained were compared to show the hardness differences between the materials. The secondary deformation zone thicknesses when comparing the two materials show different physical structure but similar size. These results were also discussed in light of the heat treatment and the effects it had on the machining characteristics of the material. In addition, the Oxley Machining Theory was used to predict the cutting forces for these materials and a comparison made. The predicted cutting performances were verified experimentally and showed good agreement with experimental data.