Fig. 282 illustrates an ordinary turning gouge. The curve at the cutting edge varies greatly for use in different kinds of work. The end is shown from different angles in Figs. 44, 47, 126, and 232.

Fig. 282. Turning Gouge.

Figs. 40 to 44, 53, 92, 111, 114, 116, 120, 125, 126,

170 show the turning gouge in use.

Turning gouges may be ground square across and used for roughing, but usually a firmer gouge (Fig. 283) is used for this purpose. For ordinary

Fig. 283. Firmer Gouge.

work the firmer gouge is strong enough; and because the metal is thinner, it is much easier to keep it in order.

The roughing gouge is shown in use in Figs. 13, 20, 78, 100, 113, 238, and 271. The grinding of gouges is not an easy task. Their cutting edges should be free from all roughness, and their curves regular throughout.

In order to produce such an even edge the gouge should be held on the grindstone as shown in Fig.

Fig. 284. Grinding a Gouge.

284. The angle of the basil side is determined by the position of the right hand. By rolling the hand, the grindstone is made to cut at any part of the curve. Do not attempt to grind the tool to an edge at one point, and then roll it a little in order to grind at another place, but rather keep the gouge rolling from one edge to the other edge.

In grinding the turning gouges, the handles will need to be lowered and raised as well as rolled. If there are any thick places that require more grinding than others, do not stop the gouge at these places, but rather do not roll it so rapidly. This carefully done, will result in a very even curve.

Fig. 285. Whetting a Gouge.

The rapid passing of the shavings over the cutting edge wears it quite rapidly, and therefore the inside as well as the basil side of the gouge is worn. This makes necessary the grinding back of the edge a little in order to make the inside edge straight.

After the gouges have been ground, their edges should be smoothed by rubbing an oilstone on them, as shown in Fig. 285.

Fig. 286. Using a Slip Stone.

The stone may be held on the bench and the gouge rubbed on the stone. Whichever method is employed, the movement must be such that the stone moves along the edge at every stroke, so that the edge is sharpened evenly.

To remove the wire edge, a hard Arkansas slip stone is used, as shown in Fig. 286. This stone should be rubbed towards the edge at the same time it is given a side movement, causing it to come in contact with the entire cutting edge. This stone may be used on the basil side as well as the straight side. This stone should produce so fine an edge that no leather strop will be required. Remember that in whetting turning tools, the changing of the angle soon necessitates regrinding. By being careful about the whetting, you can save much time in the grinding.