Now is it just me, or does size really matter ?

(OK Enough of the jokes)

Turners, are of all different shapes and sizes, so it makes sense we all
have different needs with tools. Whilst turning a bowl the other day, it
came to me that I would be comfortable with a tool about 5 inches longer
than that which I had. This prompted me to look at the ergonomics of the
tool in question and my posture, so rather than use the tool, I put it
down, closed my eyes and assumed the posture I would take for using the
tool as if I were to be explaining it to another person, but without a
tool to hand. Amazingly it was 5 inches longer than the tool I had been
using. I noticed also that my right arm was perpendicular to that of the
tool shaft. I then did the same experiment with several other tools,
right down to my micro set, where for me I found the tool needed to be
about 2 inches longer to allow me to hold the tool comfortably. I am
assuming that these natural positions for holding the tools, and that
may provide the least fatigue for the body, and most comfort.

Have you closed your eyes, pretended a tool in your hands, then opened
your eyes and measured the distance from outside of left to outside of
right, then added a bit for the overhang of the tool rest?

Maybe I need to re-handle all my tools just to suit me, but before I do,
has anyone else noticed this? Looked at the ergonomics further? I know
there are those out there who would say that tool manufacturers do, but
I would disagree. They have looked at it from their point of view,
probably using the designers body as the template.

Ergonomics are a wonderful concept, but how many of you remember the
requirement in the late 80's early 90's that a computer monitor should
be at eye level, with the body sitting upright? Now take a look at the
modern LCD panel that seems to have taken over the world, most users
have them back on the desk with screen tilted up so their head is
forward and down, straining their neck, throwing out all those ideas for
improving things for the user.

--
John