Knife making shop. Tool suggestions needed

S

ScottyE

Joined
Oct 12, 2014
Messages
126
Looking to put together a knife shop but I don't have a ton of money to spend. I'll be building knives using I'm looking for suggestions on brands and models of tools that aren't too expensive but still functional.

I need a:
Bench grinder
Belt sander
Drill press
Band saw What size bandsaw do I need?
Vise

Any other suggestions for tools?

I've looked at the offering from harbor freight, ryobi, black and decker and other bargain brands but I'm not sure which models are reliable.
 
IMO you don't need a bench grinder, for a belt sander the 2X 42 from Sears is the best bang for the buck, a cheap 5 speed HF drill press will get you started, also a portable band saw from HF and rig you a stand. Get a decent bench vise. Bunch of sand paper,several good files and you should be off to a good start.
 
SBuzek said:
IMO you don't need a bench grinder, for a belt sander the 2X 42 from Sears is the best bang for the buck, a cheap 5 speed HF drill press will get you started, also a portable band saw from HF and rig you a stand. Get a decent bench vise. Bunch of sand paper,several good files and you should be off to a good start.
Click to expand...

This is my exact setup and have been using for about 2 years. I converted my 2x42 to a 2x72 with some ingenuity, nuts/bolts/and metal stock from Lowes. It's a hobby for me and you can put out some good stuff with these simple tools.
I'll add good respirator and eye protection (I like a shield) is a must as well.
If you get a portable band saw, check out Swag Off-road and see if they have a table for the saw you get (I use a Dewalt deep cut). The are well worth the money. I just got the deck and mounted mine over a garbage can as the stand.. all the dust/scraps just fall right in the can.
Also need a dremel tool.
Get some good high speed drill bits in 1/8, 3/16, 1/4 (get about 5 of each if not more).
Set of 1-2-3 blocks

Watch Nick Wheelers YouTube videos on hand sanding, and make some blocks like his. You will be doing LOTS of this.. LOTS!!
Good luck man and welcome!
 
Last edited:
Keep an eye on your local ads. If you aren't in a hurry and watch everyday you can find some great deals. I recently bought an old miller portable welder for $400 and a powermatic drill press for $200. The powermatic is a peach,and looks almost brand new. It was used in a retired guys basement wood shop.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top