Sharpening Jig failure
I sharpen planes and chisels both free hand and with a jig. There’s no rhyme or reason as to why I choose one method over the other , it just happens. Last week when I had 4 planes to sharpen I used a jig. They were in poor shape and I knew they would need extra effort.
The first three were sharpened with an Eclipse style jig. They are inexpensive and work well. I failed to notice that the wheel in the jig was not turning and managed to flatten it.
The final plane was sharpened by hand……..I imagine this is a very low cost part, but impossible to get. May have to reconsider my sharpening methods.
Categories: Techniques, Tools and Schools, Tools
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orepass 
Probably not what you want to hear but I’ve had the same problems with that type of jig, especially when I taught classes. Happened twice and so I decided to “bite the bullet” and buy the Veritas MK II and have been using it hassle free for probably 12-15 years. Over the years I’ve gotten the chisel attachment and have to concur with what we hear: you get what you pay for and quality is worth the price.
Good to hear from you! I will probably be looking far a new jig as well. I free hand. Quite a bit but eventually I end up with the jig after some time.
I think a delrin or UHMW wheel would be better on those jigs than the steel. They are self lubricating and won’t eat a stone like the steel will.
If you can get the round stock, you may be able to make a roller yourself in a lathe or drill press.
Those are both interesting suggestions. I have a friend that does a little machine work on the side and I’m going to check in and see what grand ideas he’s may have as well. At this point there’s nothing to lose.