Kalamazoo S272 Grinder question

[Mahoney]

I've read a lot of grinder threads here and elsewhere on the net, and I've almost never seen the Kalamazoo S272 grinder mentioned. Is it just that no one has one, or is there some other reason that I should stay away from it? My application is general metalworking with occasional knife grinding.

Thanks

 

[chemikillz]

i feel that makers dont think it has enough power i was looking to buy one and felt the same so then i was looking at this which is realy cool http://www1.mscdirect.com/CGI/NNSRIT?PMPXNO=2557159&PMT4NO=62659060.....
but eventually im going to go with the hurrican i think its the best deal i was surprised aand im sure ill be more then happy with it...http://www.vansantent.com/multitool.htm#thumb...

the kalamazoo looks great witth the table attacment just a power issue

 

[Luke Sheridan]

Considering that the kalamazoo doesn't come with a motor I'd say it has some pretty serious power issues, but nothing that can't be fixed with a cheap 2 hp motor....

 

[scottickes]

It's a 1 HP machine, so it is underpowered a little bit and has no VFD, and screams at 5400 SFPM. The basic bench model is about $1100, give or take. Once you add in putting a 1.5 HP or 2 H.P. motor with a VFD you're up to the cost of a KMG, which I've found much easier to change out belts on and easier to change out tooling.

Don't get me wrong, from my limited time playing with one, it's a good machine, but has limitations that are addressed by other grinders that are favored by many knifemakers.

I looked at purchasing the Kalamazoo S272 a while back (used), in good shape that had a 1.5 HP motor and VFD for $1700. I opted for the KMG (used) at a slightly higher price. My KMG has 2 HP and the VFD with an 8" and 1" contact wheels as well as the flat platen. I've never regretted my choice.

 

[chemikillz]

i do apologize i thought you were refering to another moel, my fault