Hello everybody, this is my first port; however I have been a silent reader for a very long time.
I am contemplating the purchase of either the new Grizzly (Tormek style) wet grinder or the Worksharp 3000. I can get both for basically the same price delivered. I have a few questions and concerns on both, and both are in a dead tie in my decision. I have searched the web and many forums, but cannot seem to find answedrs for the following. Sorry if I am asking too many questions.
Grizzly:
1. I have noticed that Grizzly is very vague if it comes with a standard chisel jig like the Tormek does. I don't see it as an option in their packages. Anyone know?
2. Has anyone determined where it is made for sure? I know that the one ad clearly states Made in Germany in bold letters, whereas I was reading their owner manual, zoomed in, and it says China. The company that makes them is making models in China now from what I've read. Just curious, but don't really care if it works.
these questions are general about the Grizzly/Jet/Tormek style systems
3. How does this type of sharpening system work with small carving tools such as the Flexcut with stubby handles (fixed blades)? Also how would it work with small spoon gouges, do they (any company) make jigs?
4. How would it work with chip carving knives? It seems that the knife jigs would work great with my Swedish laminated knives, but not sure about small chip carving ones.
Worksharp:
1. How much wobble/movement is there in the glass/slotted plates when pushed from underneath? Is it an issue?
2. The heat sink air cooling seems neat, but is absent when using the bottom free hand side or top of the machine. I am worried I'd ruin some mighty expensive tools in a hurry freehand sharpening gouges with somewhat thinner steel than chisels. I'm also curious if the motor is enclosed. Looking at the diagram, it appears that steel dust (forgot real name) is sucked across the motor.
3. Can you sharpen knives on this machine?
4. How uneven is the sanding pattern on larger (2") chisels and blades due to RPM at different distances across the plate? This would be a particular problem for me with knives - assuming knives can be sharpened on it.
5. Has anyone come up with jigs for the tool rest? Any rests for using under the machine?
6. Just for curiosity, and because some reader of this may care, where is it made?
Regards
J