6x48 Grinder Question (Exactly Why Not to Use One)

[Chop1]

I'm new the forum and also new to knife making. My question is EXACTLY why one wouldn't want to use a 6" grinder for doing flat grinds. I already have an old 6 incher that tilts vertically (no jokes, lol.) The arm is a full platen. If I cut a bit of the arm out (beneath the belt in the platen area where I'll be grinding), I should be able to plunge the cut (have seen people do that modification with 4" grinders.) The mod won't compromise the rigidity of the arm. So with the right grit and the right "touch", why wouldn't I just use what I have, rather than spending money on a 2x72 (especially as a beginner.) Before someone chimes-in and says something like "once you get serious, buy the 2x72", please state exactly why because I'm finding that most people say stuff like this and don't get into any specifics...I don't want to fall victim to following the leader on the internet w/out facts; this way I can judge the cost-benefit. I sincerely appreciate any clear input/examples. I'll just be doing flat grinding and it'll just be a hobby, but I'd like the grind to be of decent quality/consistency.

 

[joedhiggins]

Some of the reasons people prefer the 2" belts:

1: The power to contact area ratio is much better, allowing for grinding fast with a lot of pressure. Combined with ceramic belts, you can move some serious metal this way.
2: It is much easier to control the angle of blade to the belt with the 2 inch belts. Moreover, you can generally use both hands on the blade.
3: Most of the larger grinders don't support variable belt speed.
4: The 2x grinders support a wide array of attachments like small wheels, curved platens, etc.
5: Platen flatness is much easier to guarantee on the 2x's. when it gets worn, toss it and replace with another piece of steel, or better yet, just epoxy pyroceram on the face of it and replace as necessary.

That all being said, use the 6x, see how you like it, and if it works for you, great.

 

[Chop1]

Thanks for the detailed response Joe (it is hard to find all of the details spread across the forum.)