Aligning the SE-77

[RichColvin]

I've followed how some people are getting skewed ends on their chisels when using the SE-77 to sharpen them.  Having watched these conversations and the back-and-forth about ensuring the chisel was properly held in the SE-77, I am now of the opinion that the problem is with the alignment screws on the SE-77. And I further believe that it is due to the way the witness marks work.

The alignment screws are shown in the picture below with red caps, and the witness marks are denoted with a red circle around them.

To replace the use of the witness marks, I've designed a 3D-printed jig which is used in conjunction with the SE-77 to align the SE-77.  The picture below shows that alignment jig (the blue part) attached to the USB with the SE-77.

The yellow blade represents a chisel to be sharpened.  The way to use it is to:

• Attach the chisel to the SE-77, ensuring the side is tight against the shoulder (see also, the SE-77 manual, pg. 122).
• Put the SE-77 and the alignment jig on the USB.
• When looking down, the alignment of the chisel to the scale on the jig should look like the picture in the middle below.  If it is like the one on the left or right, then adjust the alignment of the two alignment screws (shown with red tops). 
• Tighten the alignment screws down, and you should be set until the jig gets bumped or you change the alignment.

If you want to 3D print your own SE-77 alignment jig, it is available for free at the Sharpening Handbook.  The link is:  https://www.sharpeninghandbook.info/Jigs-SE-77-Alignment.html.  There is also a link there to a video I made showing how to use it.

[Ken S]

Rich sent me one of his alignment jigs for the SE-77. (We both live in the Columbus, Ohio area and occasionally get together and/or share projects.) I have found his alignment jig cleverly designed, quick, and easy to use.

This jig seems a logical use of a 3D printer. I appreciate that Rich has made the 3D plans available for free. Rich is also developing several other useful tools for use with a Tormek. I suggest contacting him directly for more information.

Ken