Lead on John Strawn : There's a John Strawn in Phoenix, Arizona. https://woodworksbyjohn.com/woodworking-portfolio/
I'm "Mr. Mom" to a 14 year old and 11 year old, both in new braces - my shop time has vanished. I wish to encourage generous souls like yourself. Some of us are grateful for your efforts, on our behalf. The endless rehash of essential topics is a natural cycle in open forums. It's why people like me move on. Best regards, Jim in "Starrett country"
Thanks for the kind words Jim. I did wonder where you had got to! Best regards Derek
Kudos on your sharpening post. You're more patient than most. In large part this endless wrangle is why I no longer openly engage in fora. The excellence of your furniture should end pointless whinging about what obviously works. FWIW - my copy of Leonard Lee's sharpening guidance stands the test of time. All the best to you and yours, Jim from Massachusetts USA
Thanks for that Jim. That confirms what I strongly suspected. When WR planes came out, and the discussions erupted on a couple of forums, I was also getting some of the inside info from Rob Lee. The whole deal soured me on Woodcraft, and I still will not purchase anything from them (not that they are aware or fussed by this ) Cheers Derek
The prototypes still had LN casting marks on them, it was a simple betrayal by the Woodcraft management. When I learned the sordid truth of this from one of the LN staff, I was outraged. That product line lent credibility to the Woodcraft name. Now, they're a nicer version of Harbor Freight. This sort of malfeasance should be exposed for what it is, but large companies have legal staff to punish small challengers.