'Cheap Mans' Wolverine Grinding Jig knock off

[rkh2]

Well, here is a chance to save a little $$$ on a Wolverine Jig. Hatsville Tool has one on sale today only for about $25.00 off the usual price. Here is a link to their ad. Woodcraft is selling the same jig for $89.

http://www.hartvilletool.com/product/10795?sc=TF1009

[iclark]

Well, here is a chance to save a little $$$ on a Wolverine Jig.

that is a great price on the basic Wolverine system. I like mine a lot.

a couple things that I learned from installing mine plus things that I learned this week between the VA woodturning symposium and a class with Alan Lacer on using skews:
1) the vertical riser under the grinder is important. you need the clearance under the wheel guards
2) alignment of the bases with the wheels is critical for long term success and for using the fixtures on both sides of the grinder
3) the 3x5 base is great but you need to relieve the lower edge around the wheel to get the top surface close enough to the wheel when you are using it for sharpening
4) the top of the 3x5 base has a small hill in the top surface where the plate is welded to the support. use a mill smooth file to flatten the plate before you use it for sharpening skews or scrapers
5) the 3x5 base is all you need for sharpening skews. then you need to hone them. (and honing is definitely an acquired skill). using the wolverine skew accessory for round skew chisels may be an exception - at least for me. either that or I need to make a sled.
6) honing the flute of a gouge with a slipstone makes a world of difference - especially true for dry wood.

oh, yeah, one more thing: when you buy good grinding wheels, throw away those <bleep> multiple thin plastic shims that come with them to get from the 1" axle hole to your grinder spindle size and buy the right sized bushing. mscdirect has been recommended to me as a source. the plastic shims are too soft and loose to hold the wheel at the right angle and centered on the spindle. you don't need to ask me how I know.

FWIW,
Ivan