grinding,grinding,grinding

S

sashcord

Joined
Nov 10, 1999
Messages
69
I have just ruined the ricasso on three blades in a row. I am attempting to use a 4x36 craftsman. Is there a trick to flat grinding on this thing or what, or am I just not sharp enough to get it? I think the craftsman might end up over the back fence!!!! I live half way between Oklahoma City, Ok and Dallas, Tx.. Is there someone out there that would let me watch them do a blade or two? I run a broom pretty good or might trade some handle material for the chance to watch and learn. Thanks for letting me vent you folks are the greatest!!!

Thanks
Steve
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Steve, are you using a set of guide blocks?? They'll help you keep the ricasso even on both sides. Take care! Michael

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<A HREF="http://www.nebsnow.com/L6steel
"Always" TARGET=_blank>http://www.nebsnow.com/L6steel
"Always</A> think of your fellow knife makers as partners in the search for the perfect blade, not as people trying to compete with you and your work!"
 
L6, What do you mean by guideblocks?

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Shane ------------------- If you don't have time to do it right the first time, When do you think you'll have time to fix it!!!
 
L6
I use a guide when I am filing the initial plunge at the ricasso. When I go to the grinder to clean up my flat grind is when I am getting into trouble. Maybe lack of patience is my problem.
Thanks buddy
Steve
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i never thought of using guide blocks, mike, thanks. if the blade it's self isn't ruined then puy some needle files and file away at them ricasso's. i have trouble with them also, so don't feel bad.
 
What kind of platen comes on that Craftsman grinder? Are you able to adjust the belt to run off the side you're working on a skosh?
I've seen some pretty poor excuses for platens on some of these grinders, but they were able to be improved by bolting on a piece of 3/16" plate cut to proper width & rounded on the edges....
Harry
 
This might help till you get the hang of it. Take two pieces of 1/4 inch o1 steel the width of your ricasso, full hard them. Super glue then tape them to your bevel line. They will resist the belt if you take it easy and don't let too much heat build up. Works with files too.
 
For guide blocks, I took two pieces of 3/8" D2, about 5" long, and drilled 1/4" holes in them about 1/2" from the ends. I tapped one for a 1/4 20 bolt. Then I used my disc sander to grind both sides square. Then sanded them nice and smooth with a 320 grit belt. Rob has them right now for heat treat. All you do is slide the blade between them till the edges are where you want the ricasso or plunge cut to be. I do all my flat grinding on a 6 by 48 sander.I have the luxury of a Wilton belt grinder, so I actually start the flat grind by taking off alot of steel on it and then moving the the 6 by. If your platen is square on the edges, you might want to take a good file and roll them some. Then you just put the blade on the sander with the guide block against the side of the platen. It keeps you from getting Wandering Ricasso Syndrome. Something I tend towards alot. I also eased all the edges of the guide blocks except the two that meet the knife blade. That way theres nothing sharp to get into the contact wheel if you're hollow grinding with them. Just be suure to use some real hard bolts so you can get them good and tight. Hope this helps you out!! Take care! Michael

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<A HREF="http://www.nebsnow.com/L6steel
"Always" TARGET=_blank>http://www.nebsnow.com/L6steel
"Always</A> think of your fellow knife makers as partners in the search for the perfect blade, not as people trying to compete with you and your work!"
 
Sashcord, I also use a 4x36 belt sander and have not had any trouble getting the blade done. I would be more than happy to share with you what I am doing. There are no secrets though.

The platen on my sander is rounded on the side, I adjust the tracking of the belt to creap over the side so that the ricasso is formed as I desire. I will admit that I have to take it easy when doing this. I do mark on both sides of the blade where I want the ricasso, that gives me something to look at while grinding the opposite side. Then, I just make any necessary adjustments (changes) to get them to match.

I am located in Frisco, TX (just north of Dallas). If you are ever in the area, let me know and I will show you.
 
Darrel and Tl,
Thanks guys, I think I have remedied my problem. As I mentioned earlier my biggest problem is lack of patience. I have also made some modifications to my platen.
TL, I have a kid going to school in Denton, I will give you a shout when I am coming that way. There are not many knife makers around here, it would be nice to see someone elses work.

Thanks again,
Steve
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I'm not stupid, it's a disguise!
 
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