Hand Positions

WARNING: Keep firm hold and control of the turning tool at all times. Avoid awkward hand posi- tions where a sudden slip could cause a hand to move into the work- piece.

In handling all of the chisels the handle hand takes a natural position, being nearer or farther from the end depending upon the amount of leverage required. The position of the tool rest hand is a mat- ter of individual liking; but there are two generally accepted positions, each best for certain types of operations.

Roughing-off and other heavy work requires a firm grip and solid positioning of the chisel against the rest. This is best obtained by the tool-rest hand position illustrated. The wrist is dropped down so that the heel of the hand below the little finger acts as a sliding guide against the rest. The handle hand controls chisel position.

Finish cutting requires more control, with less force - and is better done with the palm of the tool-rest hand turned up. The wrist is still held down, and the side of the index finger acts as a guide along the rest. In this position, control of the chisel is shared by both hands, the fingers of the tool-rest hand being free to assist in posi- tioning the tool.

The first and second positions are equally good for scraping or cutting operations.

Roughing Off

Finish Cutting

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RIDGID WL1200LS1 manual Hand Positions, Roughing Off Finish Cutting