re: Carving Gouges

I can see both sides regarding back bevels DL.  I have gouges without them and some with them and don’t really see any difference in how they cut.  I’m generally dropping the bevel at least 5 degrees so adding a 5 degree back bevel leaves me with the same inclusive angle as the factory edge.  Personally I prefer to cut cross grain when possible and downhill when I can’t.  But there are always spots where uphill is the only option.