Contact wheel for finish grinding: serrated or smooth?

Kevin Wilkins

Kevin Wilkins

Knifemaker / Craftsman / Service Provider
Joined
Oct 7, 1998
Messages
1,487
Right now I'm useing a 10 inch serrated contact wheel for all my grinding. I've thought about getting a smooth, hard rubber coated contact wheel for finish grinding because I've heard it makes it easier to get a fine, even transition. What do most of you guys use? I'm asking because a good wheel isn't cheap, and well, I am...

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http://www.wilkins-knives.com

[This message has been edited by Kevin Wilkins (edited 05 January 1999).]
 
Looks like a new wheel is defintely worth the investment.

Do you guys do all your post-heat treating grinding with the smooth wheel?

What about slightly rounding the corners of the smooth wheel the help finish the plunge area?

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http://www.wilkins-knives.com


 
Rounding is an option, but, I'd wait until I had experimented with square corners, and then, go easy on the rounding off. You need to play a learning game with how much belt hangs over, and how stiff the belt is. Working the outer 1/8" of belt with the side of a rod will break it down and help it roll instead of gouging. Mostly, it's PRACTICE that matters. Once you learn how to get into the plunge area, and transition smoothly down the primary bevel, you're golden.

BTW, the plunge is my favorite part of the grind. Visually stunning when done cleanly.

Good Luck.

RJ
 
Hey guys, thanks for the advice. I ordered a new 10 inch contact wheel from Denmark and should have it in about 3 weeks. Once it's running, I 'll post my experiences.

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http://www.wilkins-knives.com


 
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