Can I sharpen small gouges with this?

[CarvedTones]

I picked up one of these drill sharpeners used on CL.

The stop for the bottom of the bit is easily removed. It seems like I could use it to sharpen small turning gouges, like my 3/8" bowl gouge. Any reason that wouldn't work or would be a bad idea?

Also, if anyone has one of these and has any tips or instructions to pass along, I would appreciate it. The seller explained how to use it for bits and it seems pretty straight forward.

 

[Mark Gottesman]

This has some info on using a similar unit.
http://www.gadgetbuilder.com/DrillSharp.html

I've never used one, but I'm guessing that you can use it for gouge sharpening. You may need to devise some sort of collet or holder to fit the tool.

 

[Bill Clemmons]

I don't know, Andy. Sharpening a bowl gouge w/ this thing may be a stretch. I've got a couple of them in a drawer somewhere, and I've never been too good at sharpening drill bits w/ them. If you make it work, let us know. :wsmile:

Bill

 

[CarvedTones]

Actually, Mark's link has me cautiously optimistic. The guy who wrote that page tries a few different ones, including one of these. The issue with it and bits is that it only does conical and works best on diameters of more than 1/4". I have a bunch of drill bits that fit that description and it sounds like a description of some grinds.