Vari-Grind Attachment
Description
| ToolInfoBox Vari-Grind Attachment | |
|---|---|
| |
| Synonyms: | Vari-Grind Jig
Wolverine Vari-Grind Jig
Gouge Sharpening Jig
Bowl Gouge Jig
Woodturning Tool Grinding Jig
Fingernail Grind Jig
|
| Type: | jig |
| Status: | available |
| Used with: | woodturning tools, Triton TWSS10 bench grinder |
| Location: | wood workshop (woodturning corner) |
| Tutors: | Lukas User:Neo |
| Manual: | https://oneway.ca/pdf/Part%202480%20Vari-Grind%20Dec%202010.pdf |
The Vari-Grind Attachment extends the functionality of the Wolverine Jig by enabling repeatable and adjustable sharpening geometries for woodturning gouges. It is especially useful for shaping and maintaining swept-back and fingernail grinds.
By holding the tool at a fixed angle relative to the grinding wheel, the attachment allows consistent bevel angles while still offering flexibility through adjustable settings
Typical Grinding Geometries
Using the Vari-Grind Attachment, the following grinds can be achieved:
- fingernail grind
- bowl gouge grind
- swept-back / side grind
- Irish / Ellsworth-style grinds (depending on setup)
⚠️ As with all grinding jigs, light passes are essential to avoid overheating and uneven bevels.
Setup & Usage Notes
- the attachment mounts into the V-arm of the Wolverine Jig
- projection length of the tool strongly affects the grind geometry - Use 4,5 cm
- small changes in angle or extension can lead to noticeable differences
- always grind evenly across the full width of the bevel
Videos & Further Learning
For a detailed explanation and practical demonstrations, see the following videos:
- Vari-Grind setup and usage (timestamped): https://youtu.be/31pzViUhJuQ?si=7cugImpCzDJui2SA&t=231
- Bowl gouge sharpening with Vari-Grind: https://youtu.be/DmvlvY3mIHs?si=VKHbh_PTnNRaDgax
Notes
- incorrect setup can still result in poor or unsafe tool geometry
- overheating the tool edge will permanently damage the steel
