Belt grinder Virgin...

S

Sharp_newbie

Joined
Aug 12, 2007
Messages
701
Well Tax return is in and there is a bit of money left for a belt grinder. I have been researching the topic and have found the grizzly to be in my price range (approx 500$) So just asking all ye old pros if this is a good Choice for a first grinder? and Also if you guys have any suggestions on a cheaper model or better model for a first timer. thanks alot for the help gents

Gilles. R
 
I too would advocate spending a little bit more for the coote as an entry level grinder. Ideally we'd all just get a KMG as our first grinder, but in the given price range, the Coote grinder is supurbly made, and will last a very long time. I've had a coote for 2 years now, and even though I've now got a KMG coming in the mail, the coote will still be in my shop and will certainly still get use as well
 
Gilles, may I suggest you pick up the book $50 Knife Shop by Wayne Goddard.
There's a chapter in it that deals with various kinds of belt sanders, what to look for in one, etc. Good stuff :thumbup:
 
The Grizzly runs really fast and is hard to learn on, you will save alot of time and effort on a Coote.
 
Speaking as a newbie myself, I have to say that my Coote grinder is wonderful. I have a 10" wheel, and I love it. It did run me a bit over the $500, but if a starving college student like me can afford one, with a little patience it shouldn't be an issue.
Having used faster grinders before (I got to use a wilton square wheel for a bronze casting class I took) I can say that the slower speed is very nice, and gives you much more control; causing less swearing as you mess up.:p
 
Griz grinder is a 3400 rpm motor, and it is NOT a TEFC (totally enclosed fan cooled) motor, which means your grinding dust will eventually kill the motor (it's only a matter of time) It's also direct drive on the contact wheel, which means the larger your contact wheel, the faster your belt speed, in this case 3400 revolution per minute time ~2.6 feet per revolution on a 10 inch contact wheel = 8840 feet per minute belt speed. For comparison, here are the belt speeds on a KMG with a 1750 rpm motor and the 3 step pulleys. 3500 ft/min, 1750 ft/min & 800 ft/min.
 
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