Mechanistic cutting force modelling generally involves coefficients identification from machining tests. In order to develop multi-material cutting force models avoiding identification, several studies have tried to link cutting forces to mechanical properties from databases, whose relevance remains questionable. In this study, the cutting coefficients obtained by inverse identification from turning tests are compared with properties obtained from several mechanical tests.The correlations show that cutting forces can be estimated, without cutting tests, using hat-shaped shear tests.The originality of the approach is the behaviour proximity of the five machined materials used: thermal and mechanical treated pure coppers, brass and bronze.