Popular Woodworking 2009-10 № 178, страница 18

■ Tool Test ■

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 28

Cutting-edge Grinding From Sorby

Traditional sharpening of cutting tools involves grinding, getting the tool shaped properly and honing, then refining that shaped edge. There is no shortage of devices for either task, but if you struggle with grinding, the Sorby ProEdge System might be what you've been looking for.

Many woodworkers have trouble using a bench grinder, and Sorby's machine has features that make grinding easier while reducing the risks of damaging tools. The obvious difference is the use of a sanding belt instead of a wheel. The 1¹⁵/16"-wide belt (we wish it were more than 2") allows you to shape a wide chisel or plane iron without sliding it back and forth across a narrow surface. It also speeds the initial flattening of the backsides of chisels and irons.

The machine is a miniature version of those used in the Sorby factory and is solidly made, smooth and quiet in operation, and easily adj ustable. Angle settings are built in to the tool rest so returning to any standard angle is a matter of putting a pin in the correct hole. The entire machine also pivots so you can find a working angle that is comfortable

and allows you to see what you're doing.

Attachments for the tool rest help to keep square tools square and skewed tools at the correct angle. In addition, there are attachments that allow gouges to roll across the belt, maintaining consistent curves in carving gouges and fingernail grinds in turning tools.

Belts are available in #60, #120 and #240 grits, and changing belts is fast and straightforward, even when you factor in removing the guard. Adjusting the belt tracking takes a bit of finesse that comes with practice. The coarsest belt removes metal in a real hurry, and the finest belt leaves an edge good enough for turning.

For carving tools, straight chisels and plane irons you'll still need to hone, but honing a nicely ground edge is easier than trying to correct problems from a badly botched bench grind. This isn't an inexpensive tool, but its value lies in its usefulness. I f you aren't an accomplished grinder and don't want any headaches when you do need to grind, this tool will serve you well.

— Robert W. Lang

Sorby ProEdge Plus System

The Best Things ■ 800-884-1373 or thebestthings.com Street price ■ $499.95

For more information, go to pwfreeinfo.com.

A Feature-packed Trim R

Around my shop, if there is edge routing to be done, I reach for a trim router. The tool's smaller size fits comfortably in your hand and turns most tasks into a one-hand operation. This frees your off hand to hold and turn the project. That saves time as you work and increases your productivity.

To be of value, a router has to have the right features to get the job done. Ridgid's R2401 trim router has everything needed to be a "go-to" router in the shop, starting with a 5.5 amp variable-speed motor that can power through most routingj obs. (Variable-speed settings are from 20,000 to 30,000 rpm and are adjusted with a quick turn of a dial located front and center on the motor housing.)

But no router is worth your hard-earned money if it's not designed to be accurate. The R2401 has an easy-to-read depth scale and a micro-depth adjustment with a zero-reset feature that is within a thumb's reach for fine-tuning the adjustment. Coupled, these two features make this router accurate and precise. Add in a work light to brighten

>uter from Ridgid

the cutting area, and you have the complete package.

The router powers up with a slide switch that's located at the top of the tool. This might seem like a strange place to put the switch, but the location is ingenious. Once you have finished routing, simply flip the router onto its top and set it down. The switch slides to the off position as the router sits awaiting the next task.

The kit includes the router complete with a lengthy cord (12') that provides plenty of walk-around room. There's a clear, round base for most routing work as well as two wrenches to fit the V4" collet (or you can use the spindle lock and a single wrench; it's your choice). Ridgid has also added a square base (it's also clear) for straight work along with an edge-guide assembly that enables you to tackle most router operations.

Everything is packed into a canvas tool bag that keeps things collected and ready to use. This router should see plenty of action in our shop. PW

— Glen D. Huey

Ridgid R2401 Trim Router

Ridgid ■ 800-474-3443 or ridgid.com Street price ■ $99

For more information, go to pwfreeinfo.com.

30 ■ Popular Woodworking October 2009