DIYbanter - View Single Post

(Arch) writes:
When good people who are good turners disagree re a technique, a tool
edge, a descriptive term, or blondes vs redheads, it probably means that
there is no clearly superior answer no matter how tenaciously held or
expertly promoted.

Or, more likely, there are multiple superior answers, but which one is
superior for YOU depends on what YOU want.

Me, for example, I got a Torkmek with all the accessories. Why would
a woodturner want an axe sharpening jig? Because I own an axe, of
course. Would all woodturners benefit from an axe sharpening jig? Of
course not. But because of my situation and personal needs, the
Tormek is the obviously correct choice for ME - I sharpen my own axes,
chisels, planes, jointer and planer knives, scissors[1], and turning
tools. I have time to put a fine edge on gouges when the job would
benefit from it. I have no talent when it comes to free-handing on
the grinder. So, a Tormek is perfect for me. My backup is a 6" high
speed grinder for rough shaping. Would that be right for everyone?
No, it wouldn't.

On the other hand, a year ago at the Craftsmen's Fair, I brought my
cheap 6" grinder - well tuned of course - for sharpening at our demo
tent. One of the pros from the other tent would show up each day and
zip zip zip hand sharpen his gouges for the day. A Tormek would
be all wrong for him.

[1] The stylist who does my wife's hair sends her scissors home with
her occasionally for me to sharpen, because I do a better job than
the pro they used to use ;-)