I figured that how it was sharpened was my problem the cheap Beaver Craft hook knife I bought. It actually has a fairly long bevel but it ends abruptly. While the hook knife would be better for a whittling approach, I found that using Paul Sellers' method (below) was so much easier so I didn't pursue fixing the knife but I really should spend a little time on it. If nothing else, it might be good for final refinement and cleanup after using a gouge.
--Nathan, TX. Hire the lazy man. He may not do as much work but that's because he will find a better way.
