Looking for a beginner's belt grinder! (~150$)

F

FlyingBlades

Joined
Aug 13, 2013
Messages
44
So I want to start knifemaking as a hobby, and as a teenager, I don't have the money to buy a 1500$ grinder. I want the best grinder that I can get for around 150$ and here's what I found: http://www.grizzly.com/products/Comb...-Grinder/H7760 and http://www.craftsman.com/craftsman-...p-00921513000P?prdNo=4&blockNo=4&blockType=G4 The 2x27 I was originally wanting to go for the grizzly but the 2x27 belts are not as common as the 2x42 so it would be more convenient and cheaper for me to go to the hardware store than ordering them and paying shipping fees aswell as waiting. I tought here would be the best place to ask. What are your opinions/recommendations?
 
I started with the craftsman as many here have. Either will work I think but everyone says craftsman. A few mods can be done to it also.

I would highly suggest looking on craigslist or in classifieds or whatever to see if you can find one. Down here I see them all the time and you can get the older one that had I think the 1/2 or 3/4 hp motor in them.
 
I think you should try to make the first one with Files and Sandpaper,your gonna need those things anyway.Keep it simple on the first few and see how it goes.
Eddie
 
I started with a craftsman and soon upgraded to the grizzly 2 x 72 and that is what I still use today. Both run really fast but I have learned to work with the fast speeds. I think I will be in heaven once I upgrade to a nice bader or KMG with variable speed.

Those fast grinders really help you become a better grinder and you learn the feel. I messed a few blades up in the beginning but now I can have the pre-heat treat grinding done in less than an hour.
 
quint said:
I started with the craftsman as many here have. Either will work I think but everyone says craftsman. A few mods can be done to it also.

I would highly suggest looking on craigslist or in classifieds or whatever to see if you can find one. Down here I see them all the time and you can get the older one that had I think the 1/2 or 3/4 hp motor in them.
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What do you think of this?:
$_20.JPG
I don't know if it's new, this is the only picture and it's only 25$ but do you think it's even worth it for knifemaking. Although I might buy it anyway just for the disc sander :D
 
FlyingBlades said:
What do you think of this?:
$_20.JPG
I don't know if it's new, this is the only picture and it's only 25$ but do you think it's even worth it for knifemaking. Although I might buy it anyway just for the disc sander :D
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You could use that to work on scales, if nothing else. I just picked one of those up for $25 as well, but I haven't used it yet.
 
FlyingBlades said:
What do you think of this?:
$_20.JPG
I don't know if it's new, this is the only picture and it's only 25$ but do you think it's even worth it for knifemaking. Although I might buy it anyway just for the disc sander :D
Click to expand...

I was going to say a 1 x30 could work, although it would be the least desirable option, but if you are on a budget then it could work. You might end up burning the motor up hogging steel out though. I have two 1 x 30 grinders set up in different configs in my shop and they are extremely handy I just don't think they would be good for doing the main bevel grinding.
 
If you can afford the grizzly 2x72 get it. The belts may cost more than 2x42, but they will last longer, run cooler, and better selection. I started on a 2x42" and it does work, just need a little more patience than the 2x72 with a 1 hp I'm now running.
That being said I still use the 2x42 all the time as I is always wearing a 220 grit belt. I use it for sharpening drill bits, polishing/de-burring pin ends, etc.
 
Save up and get yourself a Coote. The whole setup can be had for about $600. Until then, a 2x42 Craftsman is a neat little machine. It has a disc sander for your handles too. You're going to be getting a 2x72 machine if you're serious, so you might as well get used to the 2in belt. Those machines are blazing fast. Easy to mess up and get things real hot. I'd suggest finding a glass platen to JB weld onto the junker factory platen. That's about the only way you're gonna get anything decently flat. After I put one on mine I ground some decent little kitchen knives for around the house.
 
I looked at a Grizzly 2x27 - and left it at the store then bought a 2x42 at Sears to get started grinding.

At some point I may even adapt the craftsman to take 2x72 belts until I have a "need" for a variable speed 2x72.
 
I think more people start with a 1x30 than let on. I have the little Delta and have done a few knives with it. I'll never say that it's ideal, or even a very good option, I just happened to have one when I got interested. I mainly use it for sharpening, and use my big belt sander for scales, but you could probably make a few small knives with the Delta.

Here's my opinion. If you can swing a new, or better, used Craftsman, then, going by everyone's experience, do that. If you really can't, or if saving up will delay your ability to make something, then go ahead and buy the little grinder. I feel like it's more important to DO something (especially when you're so young) rather than wait forever and possibly have your interest wane. Just keep in mind that you probably will need/want to upgrade soon if it's something you find yourself enjoying, so keep saving.

Whatever you decide, keep us in the loop. :)
 
Strigamort said:
I think more people start with a 1x30 than let on. I have the little Delta and have done a few knives with it. I'll never say that it's ideal, or even a very good option, I just happened to have one when I got interested. I mainly use it for sharpening, and use my big belt sander for scales, but you could probably make a few small knives with the Delta.

Here's my opinion. If you can swing a new, or better, used Craftsman, then, going by everyone's experience, do that. If you really can't, or if saving up will delay your ability to make something, then go ahead and buy the little grinder. I feel like it's more important to DO something (especially when you're so young) rather than wait forever and possibly have your interest wane. Just keep in mind that you probably will need/want to upgrade soon if it's something you find yourself enjoying, so keep saving.
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I'll get the craftsman because I'll end up upgrading one day anyway and I have the money right now. I plan on buying it right after christmas and I'll let you know when I get it and what I think of it!
Thank you.
 
1066vik said:
I looked at a Grizzly 2x27 - and left it at the store then bought a 2x42 at Sears to get started grinding.

At some point I may even adapt the craftsman to take 2x72 belts until I have a "need" for a variable speed 2x72.
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Yeah now that I think about it the grizzly isn't as intersting. Also I'd like it if you could refer me to a post/video about the craftsman 2x72 mod.
 
Josh Mason said:
Save up and get yourself a Coote. The whole setup can be had for about $600. Until then, a 2x42 Craftsman is a neat little machine. It has a disc sander for your handles too. You're going to be getting a 2x72 machine if you're serious, so you might as well get used to the 2in belt. Those machines are blazing fast. Easy to mess up and get things real hot. I'd suggest finding a glass platen to JB weld onto the junker factory platen. That's about the only way you're gonna get anything decently flat. After I put one on mine I ground some decent little kitchen knives for around the house.
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Wow those Coote grinders are very affordable and interesting. But I'll start messing around and learn the basics on the Craftsman and then when I really feel like the grinder is limiting me I'll save up for the 8'' wheel Coote grinder. Also, how thick has the platen to be, do you think I could just salvage a picture frame's glass plate because I've got one laying around.
 
Bruce Culberson said:
If you can afford the grizzly 2x72 get it. The belts may cost more than 2x42, but they will last longer, run cooler, and better selection. I started on a 2x42" and it does work, just need a little more patience than the 2x72 with a 1 hp I'm now running.
That being said I still use the 2x42 all the time as I is always wearing a 220 grit belt. I use it for sharpening drill bits, polishing/de-burring pin ends, etc.
Click to expand...

I'll get the craftsman asap and when I feel like the craftsman is really limiting me I'll get an 8'' wheel Coote grinder.
 
I think starting with file and sand paper is the best choice for starting. I am new to this and I have the craftsman myself and to be honest I am not even using it, I have been using strictly using hacksaws, files, and sandpaper for everything. I played with the belt grinder on my first and second build and realized I have no idea how to file properly and was trying to rely on the machine to do everything for me. So far I have made a total of 5 knives 3 with handtools only and to be honest they just keep getting better and better. For the handles I cut them down to shape with a coping saw, finish with files and sandpaper. Gotta walk before you run. Thats my .02 and by no means am I an expert.
 
mccandmatt said:
I think starting with file and sand paper is the best choice for starting. I am new to this and I have the craftsman myself and to be honest I am not even using it, I have been using strictly using hacksaws, files, and sandpaper for everything. I played with the belt grinder on my first and second build and realized I have no idea how to file properly and was trying to rely on the machine to do everything for me. So far I have made a total of 5 knives 3 with handtools only and to be honest they just keep getting better and better. For the handles I cut them down to shape with a coping saw, finish with files and sandpaper. Gotta walk before you run. Thats my .02 and by no means am I an expert.
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+1:thumbup:
I started about a year ago thinking that I needed a belt grinder. So I went out and got a cheap 1x30. Did my first knife with it and realized how fast you can screw up with the high rpm of the machine. I just finished my 7th and did it all by hand, and let me tell you, it is by far my best knife to date when it comes to blade geometry. Take your time with this hobby. Files and sandpaper are essential basic tools that everyone should learn as a beginner. I read all of the posts about files and sandpaper and initially thought that would take too long to finish a knife. Truth is, I take less time with basic hand tools than I do with the 1x30, since I spend most of my time correcting small errors due to the high rpm. They are extremely handy once you learn how to grind bevels and the grinder is great for handle shaping. I am now saving my money for a Coote 2x72 with the 10" wheel and can't wait to get it, but as for now, files and sandpaper until then. Good luck to you in starting out.
 
Hi. That little belt sander there may be good for handles but nothing else in my opinion. Where do you live in Canada? Anywhere near Kamloops in B.C.? Don't be afraid to enter that in your profile. No one is going to be chasing you to sell you stuff, or to be buying knives - well just not yet. Frank
 
Frank Niro said:
Hi. That little belt sander there may be good for handles but nothing else in my opinion. Where do you live in Canada? Anywhere near Kamloops in B.C.? Don't be afraid to enter that in your profile. No one is going to be chasing you to sell you stuff, or to be buying knives - well just not yet. Frank
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I'm from Québec
 
Sgt John said:
+1:thumbup:
I started about a year ago thinking that I needed a belt grinder. So I went out and got a cheap 1x30. Did my first knife with it and realized how fast you can screw up with the high rpm of the machine. I just finished my 7th and did it all by hand, and let me tell you, it is by far my best knife to date when it comes to blade geometry. Take your time with this hobby. Files and sandpaper are essential basic tools that everyone should learn as a beginner. I read all of the posts about files and sandpaper and initially thought that would take too long to finish a knife. Truth is, I take less time with basic hand tools than I do with the 1x30, since I spend most of my time correcting small errors due to the high rpm. They are extremely handy once you learn how to grind bevels and the grinder is great for handle shaping. I am now saving my money for a Coote 2x72 with the 10" wheel and can't wait to get it, but as for now, files and sandpaper until then. Good luck to you in starting out.
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I'll go get some good files and welding steel next weekend and make my first knives (probably not going to heat treat them anyway). I'll let you guys know when it's done :)
 
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