Image 8
Your first flattening grind should start like this, the top and bottom clear ground edges should be opposite each other or parallel to the back of the guard. If not, reposition the cork position to apply pressure over the lowest edge, keep checking; don't let your grind get too high before you have corrected this.

Note: You will notice that the guard on this knife is narrow at the top and wider at the bottom (seemed like a good idea at the time) as opposed to being parallel. As a result the scribed line at the back of the guard angles slightly across the tang. As shown you will find it easier to grind to this line if it is held horizontal i.e. at a right angle to the edge of the platen. You obviously have the option at this stage of finishing the taper on the platen - provided you are satisfied it is truly flat. In my shop however, although hardened, the platen still takes quite a beating and never gives me the "flatness" I am after. I therefore prefer to go one extra step.