2x72 belt differences?

Nick EBK · Nov 30, 2015

When I first got into this several months ago, I built my own 2x72 sander, and bought a handful of belts off Amazon. As I'm about to run out of fresh belts, it occurs to me, that I don't really know much about them. I have a handful of new 36 & 80 grit belts, with a few used 120 & 220 all aluminum oxide. I understand that there are different backings in different stiffnesses, but I don't know which is which, and the uses or pros to each.

When I go to buy more, I think I'm going to get more 36, 120, 220, and 400. Are there any hard and fast rules about what and where to buy? I'm not rich, but I understand that quality comes with a price, and I'm willing to pay that for my knives.

Thanks in advance...

John Andrews · Nov 30, 2015

I use mostly Norton and 3M belts. I don't use 36 grit belts but you may have use for them. Ceramic belts have good work life, very good. I have an old Wilton single speed grinder that has held up under years of work. It's old compared to the newer multi speed grinders but it serves me just fine.

Welding supply stores are good sources of belts if you don't shop online.

Like other makers, I got into the business for the big bucks, fast horses and fast gals, and good whisky. I am still waiting.

drysideshooter · Nov 30, 2015

I order most of my belts from trugrit.com and have been very happy. Nice folks and good service and they have a large assortment of belts.

For heavy stock removal/profiling I really like the ceramic belts and they last quite a bit longer than aluminum oxide. Do a google search on belt flexibility. Belts like the J flex are much more pliable and work great when you need flexibility such as when profiling handles. Pay attention to which belts are okay with getting wet or damp. When you're profiling and cooling your blade in water you want to make sure you are using a belt that's okay with moisture.

Brock Cutlery · Nov 30, 2015

Cubitron II.

J. Hoffman · Nov 30, 2015

I buy most of my belts from Phoenix Abrasives. Sean the Sandpaper Guy has the best prices and good quality belts. AO belts start at $2. I use AO for both steel and wood, but I also buy some ceramic belts from him that are similar to Norton Blaze, but much cheaper. Find Sean the Sandpaper Guy on Facebook and we will send you a PDF with their belt pricing. Trying to use their online catalog is difficult because they have thousands of different belts and sheets etc. Sean will also be able to answer all your questions about different belts etc.

elementfe · Dec 1, 2015

Mr. Poplin at Pop's knife supply will take you right through what you need to know, if he's not terribly busy. He's a great example of why shopping with the little guy is the way to go....though most knife suppliers are "little guys" or close to it!

Nick EBK · Dec 2, 2015

Thanks guys. I ended up buying from Pop's after posting OP, and doing a bit more research. got Trizact CF in 280/360/600, a scotchbrite grey, and 5 AO/Z in 36 (cheap and I like 36 for main stock removal since I don't have a decent saw). If y'all think I missed something major, please do tell.

Like other makers, I got into the business for the big bucks, fast horses and fast gals, and good whisky.

Oh yes, me too. I mean who cares about self accomplishment, artistic expression, any of that hoopla?

Nick EBK · Dec 6, 2015

Got the belts in yesterday, They're amazing. I can tell this is going to greatly boost my knife making ability.