A cheap belt sander for new knife maker

T

thefirstsuspect

Joined
Oct 30, 2013
Messages
226
Hi all,

I recently bought some D2 tool steel and I need a way too grind the bevel on the two knives I have cut out. I will probably not make anymore knives again so I want to get a belt sander that I could use this one time that does not cost a fortune (I am thinking a $500 belt sander that I could find used for about $150) do you have any suggestions as to a brand, I have a $200 budget and I am not willing to pay anymore than that on one. Also, I have been looking at Wilton, daton and delta belt sandersand I would want a table top sander, thanks in advance!
 
Build a file jig. Cheaper and easier. A cheap pos grinder won't help you and any grinders learning curve is higher than two knifes.

Just google knife file jig and start building! :)

Have fun.
 
Sounds like a new Craftsman 2x42 is what you need if you decide to go with a machine. Many makers started on that grinder. Aside from knives there are plenty of uses for it down the road. Trying to find anything better that is used and in your price range could take quite awhile.
 
Craftsman 2x42. Lots of threads on it on these forums. I made about 150 knives with mine before I upgraded.
 
thefirstsuspect said:
Hi all,

...I will probably not make anymore knives again so I want to get a belt sander that I could use this one time that does not cost a fortune...
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First I would be careful saying you want make anymore... it's an addiction ;). That said, it could be tough to refine your skills to get the results you may want with just one or two knives (especially on a "cheap" grinder). If you truly only intend to make a couple of knives, I'd go with a set of files and a simple jig. They'll produce a much criper bevel for you than a cheap grinder will. Even a cheap grinder can give you good results, with practice.

Any way you, you'll want plently of patience and perseverance. They're essentially for a new knifemaker.
 
If you're only going to make one knife and be done do it with files and sandpaper. If you go the Craftsman route I'd suggest you get the ceramic glass platen from USA knifemaker and install it how he shows (if it's still on his site). But if you never ground a knife before there is a VERY high chance you'll screw it up on a grinder. Especially the Craftsman it runs very fast and mistakes happen quick on any grinder if you never used one making a knife.
 
Fletch Helical said:
If you're only going to make one knife and be done do it with files and sandpaper. If you go the Craftsman route I'd suggest you get the ceramic glass platen from USA knifemaker and install it how he shows (if it's still on his site). But if you never ground a knife before there is a VERY high chance you'll screw it up on a grinder. Especially the Craftsman it runs very fast and mistakes happen quick on any grinder if you never used one making a knife.
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Quoted for absolute truth. every word.
 
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