I had a 35lbs piece of anvil shaped track to start with. Still use as a door stop for my workshop so I have to touch it every day.
I do believe you mean ambidextrious.On the left, which is actually my right since the blade is upside down, I can make it curve to fit the curve of the blade. I try the same technique on the other side, and it ends up straight. I know I need more practice, but it's so frustrating. I wish I was more amphibious!!
I know your pain, I still have that issue. One thing I found is that if I grind the right side of my blade first, which is using my left hand with the edge up, I can match it with my right hand much easier than by doing my strong side first.On the left, which is actually my right since the blade is upside down, I can make it curve to fit the curve of the blade. I try the same technique on the other side, and it ends up straight. I know I need more practice, but it's so frustrating. I wish I was more amphibious!!
How are you grinding? (Using a jig, standing, freehand, sitting, etc.)On the left, which is actually my right since the blade is upside down, I can make it curve to fit the curve of the blade. I try the same technique on the other side, and it ends up straight. I know I need more practice, but it's so frustrating. I wish I was more amphibious!!
Standing, free hand. I use a file guide to keep the plunge lines sort of close (Haven't mastered that just yet).
I typically start with my strong side first as well. For me it's my right hand.
You are more than likely already doing this but, it helps to tuck your elbows to your side and once you have your angle do not move your hands or arms simply move the blade across the platen by leaning your upper body (just like a jig) left or right. Also checking to make sure your platen is truly flat will help too. The main thing that helped me build consistent muscle memory from left to right hand grinds was Fred Rowe's bubble jig. The Bubble Jig is not really a jig its a bubble level that attaches to your file guide via a magnet. As long as you keep the bubble in the middle you are golden. Everything is still freehand it just helps ADD people like me concentrate on holding a consistent angle.
That Bubble Jig is a huge help for me. I'd recommend it to anyone.
The Bubble Jig does take some practice. But not too long. Fred Rowe has several videos on his website that probably explain how to use it better than I can. I use mine all the time.
Looking really good! You’re doing a fine job on it. I would try to work the plunge further up toward the spine but that strictly a personal preference. Nice job!
