If I had the option of a subtitle for this thread, it would definitely be:
"If not for the free time in my schedule and the free shipping offered by Lee Valley, none of this would be happening."
Hi all. Like many, I have found myself with a little extra time on my hands lately, which has led to a re-evaluation of how I sharpen my plane irons and chisels. I took the hand tool plunge because I like my fingers attached and I really enjoy the sweet serenity of silence. After ogling over some of the images of precision hollow ground chisels and plane irons on the Creek and elsewhere and looking for a slightly faster way to grind and/or change primary bevels, and improve my freehand sharpening, I decided to dust off my much neglected 6" variable speed Delta bench grinder and invest in a tool rest and jig from Lee Valley. The grinder wheels are stock wheels, but spin true. Much to my surprise, the old grinder has almost no run out! Off to a good start!
I installed the tool rest according to the instructions with the tool rest 2 inches from the base of grinder and square to the grinding wheel. I set the angle I was shooting for by using the included angle setting thingamajig and double checked its accuracy with a protractor. (I am so glad I paid attention that one day all those years ago in geometry class!) Installation was straight forward, but that is where my joy ended. Attached are my three test attempts on some cheap chisels of varying sizes. Something is amiss.
For starters, it took a long time. I think I could have reground the primary bevel faster on coarse sandpaper. I properly dressed the wheel prior to starting so I do not think it was a case of wheel glazing, but not certain. The perplexing thing, one of them anyway, was my inability to grind a complete hollow. I managed to get close with chisel three, but I just could not get a full regrind. Also, has anyone else had issues with the jig not grinding square? The tool rest is square to grinder and the chisel is placed in the jig firmly against the alignment pin.
I know there are several older threads that deal with this particular tool rest and jig, but I thought I would ask for thoughts, let everyone "admire" my handiwork, and hopefully get some pointers on how to properly use the tool rest and jig.
Chuckles on me tonight! Thanks. chisel 1.jpgchisel 2.jpgchisel 3.jpg