I switched to an electronic microtome after 30+ years of using a manual and 
wrecking my shoulder, elbow and hand.  I will not cut at a manual ever again. 
 I will switch professions before I go back to the old repetitive motion act. 
 It is not necessary to beat yourself up like that.  It is a new technique... 
 I can cut faster and better with this electronic microtome.  Both hands can 
be free to grab that ribbon as it comes off the knife.  If you are not 
hurting it is easy not to consider an electronic microtome.    Pearl