Grinder Advice KMG

J

Jwgriesser

Joined
Sep 20, 2015
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Thanks for any insight you can provide me. I have a Grizzly 2 x 72 grinder. I am thinking of selling it and moving to an KMG. here are two basic choices with a KMG.
1. KMG-10 3 speed (900, 1800, 3600) for about $1500.00 1 1/2 hp
2. Variable Speed KMG-10 2 hp for about $2000.00.

I am not sure the best way to go. What are the major advantages to the variable speed. I tried searching the forums and couldn't find my answer.

Any advice would hep of my KMG question.

Thanks! Jay
 
Man, I would definitely go w/ the variable speed one... It's just so invaluable to be able to have total control over the speed w/ the turn of a knob! Basically the largest advantage will be less mistakes, and you won't burn bearings out quick on the small wheel attachments. It is also nice for when you are using a leather belt stropping your edge, you can slow it down to a crawl. Totally worth the extra $500 imho.
 
It sounds like you already have your mind set on the kmg but if I were in your shoes, the kmg would be one of my last choices. Pheer and esteem grinders are both nice and will set you back a bit less than the kmg. I personally think the Pheer is a bit more versatile than the esteem, though some may tend to disagree. But whatever you decide on spend the extra cash and get variable speed. Worth it completely.
Blessings,
Joshua
 
Variable speed is the way to go in my opinion. I went from the Grizzly to a KMG Variable and the difference was night and day. That being said, the three step would be a huge difference too, but the variable really let's you dial in a sweet spot. I would consider keeping the Grizzly, I still use mine for shaping handles and various things. I think the "buy once, cry once" theory comes into play.
 
Something to keep in mind: VFDs and motors can be purchased separately for a fair amount less than what Rob sells them for. Granted, it may not be as "plug and play" (not sure to what degree they come set up from Rob), but it may be worth $200 to $300 in savings if that's what's keeping you on the fence.

I'd also recommend converting to a direct drive. See a recent thread by Matthew Gregory for ideas.
 
Jwgriesser said:
What are the major advantages to the variable speed. I tried searching the forums and couldn't find my answer.
Click to expand...
Variable speed is the way to go when you're stepping up to a high end grinder. Since it could be the last grinder you will ever need, spending the extra $500 bucks is a no brainer. The advantages are that you will have complete control. Examples of how I use mine:

Very fast for hogging material
Slightly slower for removing 60 grit scratches
Mid speed for removing wood quickly
below mid for finer wood work and polishing metal with higher grit belts
Down to a crawl for sharpening.

While a 3 speed is better that a single speed, variable speed gives you the ability to fine tune for every task. I find it indispensable for the quality of knives I want to make.

It seems your set on a KMG, but at that price range, I would also look at the Pheer, Wilmont and Esteem which are direct drive grinders.

I hope this helps and good luck with your decision!
 
I agree with Andrew. You may want to buy the basic KMG from Beaumont and buy the VFD (KBAC) and the 3 phase motor elsewhere. This is what I did and saved a bunch on the motor and VFD by shopping. I have a direct drive grinder and a pulley driven KMG and I like the KMG the best although many knife makers love the direct drive grinders. I like the 1725 RPM motors because they are 4 pole motors and have good torque at lower speeds so I don't mind the pulleys and jackshaft arrangement to get the speed up. Just my opinion. Larry

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