Maybe my technique needs work, but I've found that the most power and control comes from leaning into the cut (when making feather sticks, for example) with the wood as close to my fist as possible. Letting my body weight do the work. Choils take the piece of wood away from the hand and requires more effort.

I like to use less effort. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />

I should pick up a Vex. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/doh.gif" alt="" />