Belt or disc grinder?

Sean Yaw

Sean Yaw

Gold Member
Joined
Feb 26, 2019
Messages
417
Hi. I have made my first several knives in the past three months (slipjoint and two lockbacks). I started with very minimal tool expenditures (i.e. drill press) because I wanted to see if I would like it and wanted to do the first several with a very hands-on approach. I am at the point where I am considering investing in some tools to speed up the process. I already have the aforementioned drill press, hacksaw, files, and a dremel. I have about $1k I can spend and I am debating between a 2x72 belt grinder or a disc grinder. I know that for $1k, my options for a belt grinder are very limited (e.g. Grizzly). On the other hand, my options for a disc grinder are pretty good (e.g. Tru Grit). I am currently leaning towards a disc grinder since I can get something I will not soon outgrow, and it will be nice to be able to flatten out my shoddy file work. Does this seem like a reasonable decision? Thank you for your insights.
 
If you only have a disc grinder you will get very tired of having to change paper and ruining a lot of paper doing so.

If you do get a TG disc grinder look into the Nielson quick disc changing system. It is not inexpensive, but you can change grits within seconds.

I have my discs loaded with 60 grit, 100 grit rubber backed, 120 grit, 220 grit and 400 grit and can quickly get things done.

TBH my TG 1 hp disc grinder with Nielson hub and 5 discs and miter gauge cost more then the 2x72 I built.
 
Thanks, Adam. I was looking at the Nielson system. A lot of people reference 3M feathering adhesive as a possible solution too. Building something ones self certainly seems the cost-effective route, but with two kids under 3, a day job, and no mechanical/electrical experience to speak of, I am not sure I want to invest the time.
 
I agree with Adam. A disk grinder is great, but if that's your only grinder your gonna need the Nielsen system.

However, I'd just save up a bit more and buy a 2x72. You can go a bit cheaper on the motor and vfd and get a Reeder chassis for 595.00. I bet with a bit a careful research you can get yourself a solid grinder for 1k.

reederproducts.com

Reeder Grinder Chassis

Reeder Belt Grinder / Sander 2" x 72" - Basic assembly Includes: Assembled grinder / sander ready to mount to motor and VFD (Sold seperately) Adjustable platen with 1 1/2" square attachment bar (20" long) Work rest (11 3/4" x 4" x 1/4") Additional 1 1/2" square attachment bar (20" long)(for work...
reederproducts.com reederproducts.com
 
I second the Reeder chassis. It runs $795 with the wheel kit. Some shopping around and/or salvaging to get the motor, and hopefully a VFD will put you at a grand. For a new maker, a 1HP motor will work, but 1.5 is a better choice, and usually only a tad more money. 2HP motors are great, but few new makers actually need the power.

Filling out your profile is a very good idea. It may allow a nearby maker to offer you some help or old equipment or a motor.
 
Thank you, Stacy.

I have learned in the past three months to scan a thread until I find your posts. Your advice over the years certainly continues to educate.
 
Save up for a decent grinder.
I bought one because I'm not good at building machines, but some people are and can make good machines on a budget.
But a grinder is only a machine that runs a belt and they are not cheap either.
Don't forget them in your calculations.
 
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