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Ever since the first days of the forum exploration of the small platform jigs, I have never felt that we fully explored the possibilities of this versatile jig. I have also felt that Tormek never showed much interest in smaller platforms. I find this especially sad since they hold the patent to the Torlock and the present design would give them a leg up with the CAD/CAM work.

3D printing presents multiple opportunities, especially if done in "the home shop". From my own limited 3D printing knowledge with my grandson's printer:

I can see that a simple washer/spacer project would be easy to design and print. Make the initial one like the spacer on the shaft between the machine and the grinding wheel. 1/8" (3mm) is thick enough and won't require lengthy printing times. The main function of this is to determine the exact diameter fit of the bore, approximately 12mm). Once this is determined, this number can be appliedto any number of designs.

Then design the bottom part of the jig. This should include a hole to be tapped 6M thread, the standard Tormek size.

Once the bottom is designed, the upper portion (s) can be designed for the intended purposes. This could be either a simple flat platform or custom platforms designed for particular tools (metal lathe tools come to mind).

Possible variations are only limited byour imagination.

Ken

I agree with CB and TGB, especially about the need for practice. I would include "disciplined" with practice and careful study of the online classes. I have watched all of them more than once, and learn more each time I do. These fine training resources were not available when I started learning how to use the Tormek.

I have been fortunate enough to have personally observed both Wolfgang and Stig sharpening. Their passion for sharpening is obvious as is their many hours of experience.

Do not become discouraged. I firmly believe that we can do anything they do we can do, also, if we are willing to put in the dedication and work. Mastery is a long road; however, for us it should be a pleasant and fukfilling journey.

Ken

The two platforms have different primary functions. The SVX is really designed for scissors. The SVD is really designed for larger turning scrapers. For chisels and plane irons, the best choice is the SE-77.

I am confused by "concave edges". If you mean cambering edges on plane irons (grinding back the outer edges to eliminate "plane tracks"), the SE77 is the ideal choice, as the amount of camber can be carefully controlled. Before we had the SE-77, we used the SE76 and leaned on the corners. This produced cambered edges which, if not exact, were usually close enough.

For heavily cambered edges, as used in roughing planes or for initial rough use with a jack plane, the SE-77 does not have enough adjustability range. This is best handled by the SVD. As this is for initial rough work, exact edge shape is not critical.

The SVD is a good "all arounder". The SE is the first choice for chisels and plane irons. The SVX is the logical choice for scissors.

I would start with the SE. (Watch the online class with Stig for a great chisel alignment tip.) Eventually you will probably want all three jigs.

Keep us posted.

Ken

I have not used HoneRite Gold or my SJ-250 in a long time. (This is not a criticism of either.)

John, I have not read anything from Tormek cautioning agaiinst using ACC (Tormek juice) with the SJ. Would you please post your source?

As ACC and Hone Rite Gold are sold by different companies, I might expect a non commital answer from either like "Our product works well. We have not tested other products."

Here is a link to one possible solution:

https://www.sharpeningsupplies.com/products/tormek-t8-water-trough

A spare water trough is inexpensive and easy to change out. There is never any cross contamination.

Ken

Rich is correct about the edge thickness of the two wheel sizes. However, the thickness of the two sizes at the indentation for the bore is almost identical. That is the reason why either size wheel will fit either size machine.

Please note that although this is possible does not mean that it is practical.

Ken

The T2 Online Class is well done and informative. This video goes beyond it, adding the experience gained from more time in the field. It is located on the Tormek Culinary youtube channel and well worth watching. I recommend it not just for T2 users, but also for anyone who sharpens knives with a Tormek. Here is a link:

https://youtu.be/JFSg_eUYc10?si=B7Z5_LAHQPfh5YDc

Ken

Nick,

I like your Premium Knife Sharpening Edition idea.

As an old woodworker who only sharpened chisels and plane irons, I agree with your idea that knives were somewhat of an afterthought, as long as the word "somewhat" is included. After all, the original Tormek idea was a Christmas present from Torgny to his father, who was a woodworker.

I also think it is fair to say that the blue "woodworking machines" are evolving greatly for knife sharpening, especially with the new KS-123 and KJ-45.

Ken

Nick,

Goodidea! I have long advocated getting to know a good local machinist. I would change that recommendation to include getting to know a good 3D printer or developing 3D design or printing skills. I believe the 3D printing benefits for Tormek sharpeners are only limited by our imaginations.

I would point out one possible constraint in your design. The out of round shape of the bore is a patented design held by Tormek called Torlock. I don't believe making a platform for your personal use would be problematic; however, anyone wanting to manufacture them for sale would face breach of patent legal action. Using a round hole would circumvent this issue, although with reduced holding power.

Ken

I agree. Anyone doing serious kitchen knife sharpening should not place a
US-430 too far in the future. I was active in the user movement to revive the out of production US-400 (essentially an extended support without the extension of the side legs).Tormek agreed to produce a limited number of US-400s, which quickly sold out. Tormek eventually included the US-430 as part of the line. Even today, while the US-103 and 105 are included with every Tormek, the US-430  remains a small production item. I believe this is the reason for the large price difference.

Ken

Fredrik,
If you are working in a limited space, the "maybe in the future" argument seems logical. The standard US-103 support can handle knives with blades up to 200mm
(8 inches).

Ken

The difference is to adjust to the difference in wheel thicknesses. The US-105 is designed for the 50mm thickness of the SG-250 and other 250mm diameter wheels. The US-103 is specifically designed for the 40mm thickness of the SG-200 and other T4 wheels. Many years ago, we had a forum post by a member whose chisel was falling off the edge of his support bar. He was using the shorter US-103 with the thicker SG-250 wheel.

I agree with TGB about the onger US-430 support bar. It is a must for knives longer than eight inches.

Ken

https://www.xe.com/currencyconverter/convert/?Amount=50&From=USD&To=AUD


I live in the US and know very little about marketing in Australia. However, I have seen numerous examples of excessive pricing in the US by Internet "dealers". The ads often claimed to offer a "discount" from inflated "list" prices. The ads often claim "free shipping"

When I want an accurate price in the US, I always check Hartville Hardware and Sharpening Supplies. I know and trust both of these establishments. I suggest you look around and compare. Check the Tormek website for Australian resellers. You will want to establish a long term customer relationship based on trust and good service. We have numerous Australian members on this forum. Use their experience and wisdom.


Ken

Per,

I look foreard to seeing your upcoming ideas! It was a pleasure meeting you in Sweden. The combination of a sharpener and an industrial engineer/inventor is a much valued part of this forum!

Ken

The new KS-123 jig is impressive. I predict that it will soon become the preferred method of knife setting. However, like most of the improved Tormek jigs and accessories, there are some cases where the present tools and techniques may be better suited. I will not be discarding my modified SVM-45s and kenjigs. Nor will I be deleting Calcapp. They are still as useful as they always were, even if in many cases the KS-123 is more useful.

Ken

Sebastien and Hugo, well done class!

Ken