Dang, sorry to hear about the tip. I have done that exact same thing - got my finger in the side of the belt...put a gash in my finger and bled for a while. It's like a paper cut, but with sand paper spinning real fast. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/ooo.gif" alt="" /> The other thing to watch out for is hitting part of the blade or handle on the edge of the belt - it will gash the steel and can be difficult to impossible to fix <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" /> But we learn and with enough practice these things will happen less and less. I definitely think the plunge is the toughest part and i will be getting a file jig for my next one. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

Looks good though so far. Keep posting your progress and I will as well. I'm working on the handles now...