Woodworking Challenges for Left Handers

[csservices]

I write left handed and usually do any fine work left handed but am right dominated for things like shooting and chainsawing but I can still used a saw or hammer etc left handed if required which is handy, I was fully ambidextrous as a kid but at primary school I was pushed to pick a hand for writing as apparently it annoyed the hell out of the teachers when I would start off left handed then change to right handed as I went across the page or when my left hand got tired

[bobh]

Circular saw really winds me up, sawdust straight in the face, struggle a bit with the bowl gouge on the lathe but I have a swivel head lathe so not often a problem.

Don't have a problem with a chainsaw, just picked it up right handed from the start, same with shearing sheep I never tried shearing left handed.

 

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[Billhook]

 

 

Ah I don't use the fence with the jigsaw and when a said planer I mean planer thicknesser. I am not doubting that many tools are very handed really

 

I am going to stir again. I would have thought the pillar drill and morticer would be better for a lefty as the precise work is done with left hand and the right is only brute force.

 

Yes I think you are correct about that. The trouble is since I have never had the left handed option, I have had to learn to use these things right handed and know no other way for comparison.

The biggest issue was having used a chainsaw with my left hand on the trigger for many years and then having to pass a chainsaw test for a certificate and re-learning how to use it right handed. As a result I can now use it either way which is useful sometimes.

 

Another problem I have is that I can only mount a bicycle from the right side. If I try from the left side I fall over! I once tried to mount a horse from the wrong side and was kicked and thrown off. ( happens more often with the missus!)