Belts

[Travis Ricks]

I'm getting a grinder soon and want to know what kind of belts (2 x 72) I should get for grinding. What kinds and grits and where to get them would be helpful. Thanks

 

[james terrio]

You'll get many answers from as many makers. The only thing almost universally agreed-upon is, don't go cheap. High quality ceramic belts do cut better and last longer, thus paying for themselves. I get most of mine from Tru-Grit.

I use Norton Blaze and 3M Cubitrons in 50 grit for hogging and 3M Trizacts in A65 and A45 for clean-up.

 

[Travis Ricks]

For the 3m what does the A stand for on the grit

 

[Travis Ricks]

Also what is up with micron. How does that translate to grit

 

[james terrio]

A65 is roughly 220 grit, and A45 is basically 400 grit. There is a chart in this thread that compares them, including microns.

 

[Matt Markell]

http://usaknifemaker.com/abrasive-belt-basics-what-kind-should-i-buy.html

 

[Travis Ricks]

Ok thanks that helps a lot. Also does anyone sharpen with a belt. Also what grit for polishing a blade.

 

[Matt Markell]

http://www.knifemakerforums.com/showthread.php?t=10 Sharpening as done by Jerry Hossom

http://ckdforums.com/forum/showthread.php?s=&threadid=3519 Polishing with Cork Belts

I'm not sure if cross forum posting is allowed, if a mod asks, I will take these down.

Also, bookmark and use this: http://www.google.com/cse/home?cx=011197018607028182644:qfobr3dlcra

If you're after a satin finish, a nonwoven belt like a 3M Scotch-Brite, Norton Bear-tex or Klingspor something-or-other (USAknifemaker has them, don't remember the line name) will give you a very nice even satin with little effort.

 

[Travis Ricks]

Thanks OzarkMatt that is an awesome help on sharpening.