The BladeForums.com 2024 Traditional Knife is available! Price is $250 ea (shipped within CONUS).
Order here: https://www.bladeforums.com/help/2024-traditional/
Is the body of the Pheer made with steel or aluminum? It doesn't say on their site. One thing I've hear about the Pheer is that you need to make sure the VFD comes enclosed in NEMA 4 box to protect is from debris. IIRC I read some of his older models had issues with exposure. From the looks of his website it seems he offers the VFD with the NEMA 4 box now.
I looked at the Esteem and probably would have bought one but there's just not many resources on the net about it. IMHO that gentleman would benefit greatly from even a simple website. I've heard nothing but good things about his grinder but when I'm buying a more expensive piece of equipment like a grinder future support is something I really look at. I've gotten better figuring out problems with knifemaking equipment but I'm no engineer. Now, he might offer the best support in the industry but with nothing more than a thread on Bladeforums I probably didn't didn't give his grinder as much consideration as it probably deserved when making my decision.
As far as the tool rest is concerned. Just get a big piece of cheap 1/4in thick A36 steel and cut out the shape you want. Then just clamp it to the existing tool rest. That's what I do sometimes and it works great. Just make sure everything is sitting flat and level(which isn't that hard with 1/4in thick plate steel).
It's a tough decision, I know.
That is really nice grinder. Now please send a photo of your first blade. I won't be critical. I still have my first three blades framed to help keep me humble. (hasn't worked) Larry
And how did you know my name is Robert?
Hmmmmmm