The old skew quandry......

[Bill White]

Just checkin' with you party animals about how many of ya use a straight skew vs: a cambered/radiused.
I've seemed to have better success with the radius, but I have a fine old W.Butcher skew that I've been reluctant to regrind. Whatcha think?
Bill:confused:

[Bill Bulloch]

I prefer the striaght skew, because I like to ride the point when making a plaining cutting from right to left. I find I can make bead cuts better with it and, of course, it is irreplaceable when making V cuts.. I have a radius skew and do use it just not as much. I think you are less likely to get a catch with the radius skew.

[Ken Fitzgerald]

I have and use both. In his video, Alan Lacer recommends learning with a straight skew and progressing to the radiused skew. Again....I like and use both.

[Harry Robinette]

Keep the old one straight you'll find a good use for it.

[Rick Markham]

I am impartial to the bullet shaped grind that Eli Avisera recommends. It's a straight edge. but the shape of the bevel makes the skew way more controllable IMO.

[Roger Chandler]

I use both from time to time........the radius is the Alan Lacer skew [big one] and I seem to use it less, simply because most of my turnings are smaller that I would need one for...........I like them both..........for table legs and larger spindles, I like the big Lacer radius skew because the radius makes it easier to roll a bead!

[dan carter]

I use both. Both work well. Both can cause issues if not used correctly.

[Bob Bergstrom]

It seems to be which one you have success with. Both work if used correctly. A well maintained tool rest at the right height will help a lot.

[Bernie Weishapl]

I have several of both. I would start learning with a straight and then venture to a radius skew. The skew is my favorite tool.

[Rick Markham]

I have several of both. I would start learning with a straight and then venture to a radius skew. The skew is my favorite tool.

I love mine now! makes such beautiful wispy little curlies, and a nearly flawless finish. The skew is an amazing tool :)

[Ryan Baker]

I use both. I tend to use a radiused edge on my large skews and straight edges on my smaller skews. Try both and see which you prefer. It's easy enough to change the grind.