anyone tried the Ellsworth grind on Thompson gouge?

[Bill Bolen]

Having grown tired of going to the grinder after one bowl I have put my DE 5/8 bowl gouge aside for a while. I just bought one of Doug Thompson's 5/8 V bowl gouges (they really hold their edge!) and would like to put the Ellsorth grind on it. Has anyone tried this? I am wondering if the flute depth will allow for it.?..Bill..

[Reed Gray]

I haven't gotten that grind on it yet, but I do use my Ellsworth jig to sharpen it. It changed the angle only slightly, maybe a half a degree more pointy. It will probably get to more of a swept back grind eventually. I have found the big advantage of the swept back grind is when I am hogging off a lot of material for rough shaping. Roll the gouge on its side, and scrape cut the wood off. I can remove up to an inch wide cut. I have found the scraper to do the same job, and it feels better to me. I do ocasionally use the swept back wing for a shear cut, but usually get as good of a getter cut with just the nose in the wood, and riding the bevel.
robo hippy