Amateur hobby set-up

Cisco Kid

Cisco Kid

Joined
Oct 20, 2009
Messages
980
I want to build a small set-up in my garage to work on knives. The purpose is to build knifes from kits and to fit scales to my new and old knives (folders and fixed blades). Mostly, this set-up will be used to cut and shape wood, G-10, CF, and other similar handle materials, but occasionally also to do small metal jobs (such as cutting a screw or bolster to length).

After Googling a little I thought that a rotary tool with attachments could work. In particular, I’m thinking the Proxxon tools and attachments, such as drill stands and router attachments. You can see the system at www.proxon.com/us. It is compatible with Dremel bits.

What do you guys think? Is this a good way to start or is there a better option? I don’t want to spend a lot of money (say, less than $200) because I don’t know if this is a hobby that is going to stick… I’ve never owned a Dremel or similar tool.

(I’m also posting this in KnifeForums, so if you see it here you don’t need to read it again there.)
 
I personally prefer working on benchtop tools (like a belt sander) than with a handpiece. I find I get more control, and benchtops usually have more powerful motors. I could just be that I suck at using a handpiece. A belt sander can also be used to flatten your scales. Without it, you're stuck with sandpaper and a flat surface.

The tools I use most are spindle sander, belt sander, and drill press. My setup is far from ideal, but it gets the job done.

You also want to look at getting a good respirator and dust-sucker. G10 and CF dust is messy and dangerous (so are many wood species).
 
A Dremel would be less expensive. Check pawn shops for used models. There are many attachments available for Dremels-drill presses, routers, etc.
Harbor Freight has a 1" X 30" belt sander for less than $40.
 
Bill DeShivs said:
A Dremel would be less expensive. Check pawn shops for used models. There are many attachments available for Dremels-drill presses, routers, etc.
Harbor Freight has a 1" X 30" belt sander for less than $40.
Click to expand...

He speaks the gospel truth :thumbup:

For a couple years, I did all kinds of knife mods with a Dremel. No workbench/vice, just holding the work against the patio balcony with my left hand and running the Dremel with my right. Now that I have a 1x42" belt grinder, I've cut my work by more than half.
 
Thanks for the replies, I've decided to go with a drill press and belt sander. Is there a dust collector that you recommend? It has to be flexible enough to move between the drill press and the sander.
 
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