Backstand or KMG benchtop

D

dullpoint

Joined
Feb 2, 2009
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I am new to this forum and new to knife making and trying to modify my existing machine shop for grinding blades. Here is the question: What is the handiest grinder to get? I have a chance at a Bader spacesaver used for around a grand or fabricate one of the many KMG bench types which seem to be around $500 for parts and labor. I'd like to do both flat and hollow grinding with at least a 2X72 belt. I have room for the Bader in the shop but need to know if that is just ok or the cat's meow.

Thanks,
 
I don't know what your work load or shop rate is, but I know that when I was looking at building or buying, I had enough custom or customized machinery I needed to build or repair that I couldn't justify the time to build something I could just buy off the shelf for only a grand. I don't regret buying a turn key KMG from Rob, and I would do it again.

Now, if building it yourself is half the fun, that is a different story. But speaking for myself, I've had enough of that kind of fun for a while.
 
What I use for flat grinding blades, is a 1x30 belt sander from HF, and a tool I made to hold the angle of the blade consistently while grinding. Check out my thread if you're interested.
 
Are you talking about the one that uses 132" belts? While I dunno about belt availability for the stuff we normally use, the belts should last almost forever for knifemaking usage. The only issue I would see with a 132" machine would be tooling like small wheels. You really couldn't go wrong with either machine or building one. Daniel Prentice has a 2hp VS KMG clone for $900 plus shipping in the tool sale area.

http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=593891
 
The space saver is a nice grinder, many makers have used them for knives. Most makers now use KMG or BIII grinders. Both are also very nice. The Bader III will cost you more than your used space saver, but you'll also have support and all new parts.
 
The space saver is a FANTASTIC machine. I'd love to have one in my shop. I've got a friend who makes reproduction/theater use swords for a living, on the order of thousands a year, and all they use are space savers. That said, I've never seen one with a flat platen so it may not be the best choice depending on your style of knifemaking.

-d
 
You can get a brand new KMG with 10" wheele & and platen for under a grand. Find a used motor to cut cost and you will never look back.
 
Yes, the spacesaver is a 132" belt machine 5hp 220 3phase and there are platen and wheel attachments available. Looks like all I'll need is a VFD to control speed and some sort of armour plating to protect myself from the sparks. Thanks for all your info.
 
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