thanks guys , one thing that im learning with the free hand stuff is to run the belts slow . The slower speed definitely is giving me more control. when using a jig , it really didnt matter cause you really cant mess it up .
One thing im seeing is that I can get my belt to roll over one side of my platen but will not on the other side . I let it hang over and beat up on it a little to wear on the sharp edge , but i personally have to pay more attention when Im working on that one side not to use too much pressure or I will dog up that plunge..
Just some differences that Im finding and yes working freehand and without a table is giving me more room to try and work some challanges in grinding .
On a side note , I took this blade here to my shop and took the last picture , uploaded them and put it on the forum. A guy walked in and fell in love with it He wanted stainledd satin bolsters on it with a nice piece of wood and a tong hole. I threw a number at him and bought it on spot , paid for it in full . That was nice getting paid for something in full that isnt even done yet .