Can you use a sander to get convex edge?

I'm not the expert but yeap if it a belt sander, that is on the sharpening CD mention in the chilangi thread.

Not too sure about a random orbit though or a hand held belt sander, I think it has to be " slack belt" .
 
I do it all the time! I use it for the initial metal removal/shaping of a convex edge, and then finish off with rubber sanding blocks, 3M paper and leather. Took me awhile before I was good at it--bought a bunch of $5 machetes at a local sporting goods outfit to practice on. Main thing that's changed since my early ones is my new convex grinds are a lot thicker for choppers like khuks. I used to to super thin grinds, and they'd sail through cutting materials, but they'd also deform easily. I save the thin grinds for knives now. :)
 
Gentlefolks, thanks for your responses. I should've worded the question better, though. Belt sander seems like a natural fit for the job, but I meant sheet polishing sander: that's what I have on the shelf. Any words of wisdom with this clarification in mind?
 
Short answer is yes. I've done it before I got a belt grinder. It must have a rubber pad on it. I think they all do. I clamped my sander in the vise upside down and put the blade on it. I like the straight line finishing sanders the best. Orbital sanders are ok, but leave little swirls. Not really a problem.

Steve
 
I've done it too.

After you're finished with one grit, just handrub the blade with the same grit lengthwise to remove the swirly marks.

Do this at every grit, and you'll get good results.

I'd clamp the khukuri down, though.....belt sander's probably a little lighter in the hand.
 
Thanks to all. I tried this method, and it seems to work fine. Especially when supplemented with manual finishing touches :)
 
Thanks for this discussion. I had the same question. Also wondering what the swirly marks would look like if left alone and then etched?

Might try it sometime to see.

Tom
 
hate to say it, but the swirly marks look like swirly marks, etched or not....:(

First time I did it, I about fell over thinking I had screwed up big time...fortunately, they do come out....:rolleyes:

There are a few guys in ShopTalk who have used this method....Bruce Evans, Dave Larsen....
 
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