I saw the light

Smithy

Smithy

Joined
May 11, 2012
Messages
326
OK...I'll never be a free hand grinder. I've been trying to grind a blade free-hand for the longest time. I've tried edge down/edge up, looking up, down, behind the wheel. So I had almost decided to chuck making knives...

And then, AND THEN, along came the Bubble Jig from Fred Rowe. I tried it and didn't have a lot of success...at first. So, I talked to Fred (who is one of the most helpful and patient man on this earth) and after what seemed to me to be 5min.---I SAW THE LIGHT. I actually ground a straight bevel. Plunges, no problem now. Distal taper, tapered tangs are just a couple of things that are easy, well, a LOT easier. All of the things I have been getting frustrated with are now just part of the learning curve of using the Bubble Jig.

And now for the other part...practice, practice, practice. ...Teddy

BTW- I am not affiliated with Fred's Bubble Jig company, just a VERY, VERY happy customer.

PS Knifemaking is FUN again
 
I have one but have not used it. For anyone learning to grind, consistency is key. The bubble jig allows you to instantly repeat a very specific condition. Part of your trouble in learning freehand may have been that you were always changing it up. Most people will suck at first. The key is to make sure you have good form (stable feet, comfortable posture, elbows tucked in, good lighting, flat contact, etc.), and then do it over and over to develop muscle memory and consistency. The bubble jig augments your natural proprioceptive feedback to speed your success.

--nathan
 
The bubble jig can point out flaws and is great for developing proper feel. It takes 3000 repetitions or so for muscle memory to develop. I learned to free grind without one but got to play with one recently and wish I had it back when...
Nice tool. Nice to see the light too. Cheers...
 
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