Is this a decent belt grinder for a newb? How much is it worth?

M

mr_dove

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Apr 12, 2004
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Is this a good grinder for making knifes? I've read a few threads about entry level grinders. This appears to be better than the Sears version and the Harbor freight version. It appears to be out of production though. I'm not sure how much it is worth. The seller is asking $75 for it but it would mean a 3 hour drive each way to pick it up.

I haven't made my first knife yet and I had planned to use files for my first few knives but I might be able to get a great deal on this grinder.

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That's a 1 X 42 belt grinder with an 8 inch disc. Although You can do some tasks with it, I would not recommend it as a knife making grinder. I purchased one 10 years or so ago for $99 at Home Depot. I would say save and get a basic 2 X 72 grinder and add to it as you can. That's my 2 cents based on my own experience.
 
2X42 craftsman works great. Ive been using one for years and never have had an issue.
 
So, $75 for the grinder and $90 in gas = go get a Craftsman 2x42. New, on sale, they are under $150. Then go to Supergrit or Trugrit to get ceramic or zirc belts.
 
It would probably be good for shaping handles, but not very user friendly for grinding blades.
 
Like others have said the 2x42 is much better. I'm not a great maker but I use it and have seen a lot of people turn out better knives than I can on them. It works fine until you can get in a position to buy a 2x72. I'd say make sure you put the glass platen on it though I wouldn't try grinding right up against the metal one it comes with.
 
Check out my youtube page link in my signature. I just did a video on my craftsmen 2x42. It will show you all the mods you will need to do.
 
Mr. Dove,

I'm going to go against the grain here and say "yes" its worth it. While I agree with all the advice to save up for a 2x72 and/or purchase the 2x42, that machine will start you out. It will do blades(not very easily though), and it will be a versatile tool in your shop for many years. I would buy it, but continue looking for a bigger, more powerful machine for an upgrade.

-Peter
 
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I have to add a "no". If it were closer, and $10-20 off that price..."maybe". That is my only grinder currently, and its a far step above a HF 1x30, well built and tracks okay. There is a good selection of belts available, but its very fast. I found mine new for $99 a couple of years ago, last of the stock because it was discontinued. I think you'd be better served buying a NEW Craftsman 2x42 especially at that price that Jason linked instead of that Delta and the gas you'll burn.
 
Bigblue17 said:
Mr. Dove,

I'm going to go against the grain here and say "yes" its worth it. While I agree with all the advice to save up for a 2x72 and/or purchase the 2x42, that machine will start you out. It will do blades(not very easily though), and it will be a versatile tool in your shop for many years. I would buy it, but continue looking for a bigger, more powerful machine for an upgrade.

-Peter
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I don't think anyone is saying that it won't work, only that it isn't a good deal. It would be cheaper to pick up the 1x30 from Harbor Freight for $30 and not drive 6 hours to get it. But if you want something better, the Craftsman is a better tool for knifemaking.

I and many other started with the 2x42. It would be better to save $1500 to get a 2x72 but if you want to make knives now, then get the Craftsman, make some, sell some, and save up from your knife sales to buy something better. In the end, you'll still use your 2x42 even after you have a 2x42.
 
It isn't a good deal with the drive. Given the time, and the mileage, and of course the original $75, You have $250 + tied up in it.
 
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