Atanzey2

I have a de-airing pug mill, and like Pres, I recommend putting the clay in the wheel 'perpendicular' to the direction it comes out of the mill.  For large pieces, I slam (for lack of a better description , kind of gently, though!) the ends on the wedging table until they get fat, and then slap or slam them into shape.  I've done 8 lbs or more that way.  My wrists can't take wedging either, so I've never gotten any good at it.