Belt Sander vs paper wheels?

C

chococrazy

Joined
Jul 1, 2009
Messages
506
If you had to pick one method choose. I know a lot of people use a belt sander then go to the wheels, but which would be more cost effective if you could use only 1 system? Don't say the bench grinder with the belt sander attachment :P.
 
Strictly sharpening, with minor chip/nick repairs, the Sharpening Wheels. Hard to beat for speed & ease of use.

Belt sander, if you factor in making bigger repairs and more versatile... for example I have scotch brite belts I can use to 'refinish' a blade.

cbw
 
if you can get a sander plus the wheels you'll be set to either sharpen a v edge or convex edge. you use the paper buffing wheel to finish off both. if you dont plan on putting convex edges on your knives just stick with the wheels.
 
If only for sharpening, the paper wheels seem to be the way to go. If you want to use the sander for other purposes, it may be worth it. I use mine for finishing handles and such, so I have the sander.
 
I don't have nor ever used a paper wheel. However, each should work just as well, as the other if the speed and grit are the same for both. I do have a HF belt sander and it is a cheap machine but I've gotten alot of use out of it. There are a wide range of grits and belts you can find for it. I don't have but I've even seen a leather belt used for power stropping. Belts will need to be replaced and I think the wheels will last for a very long time. I think of it this way the wheel is a long lasting sharpener and the belts are less long lasting but have many more uses. Want even another choice? Cratex wheels are another polisheing wheel and they have the grit right in the wheel. I'm pretty sure they have a range of grits as well.
 
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i have a set of cheap wheels and a set like what you get at harbor freight or woodcraft. the cheap wheels are worn down even though i use the good ones more. my good set is 18+ years old and still going strong. for the initial investment you get your moneys worth and then some. i wouldnt take a tormek in trade for my wheels (unless i found someone to buy it so i could buy more wheels)
 
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