Looking for knife polishier suggestions

riversidedep

riversidedep

Basic Member
Joined
Nov 27, 2007
Messages
1,318
Hello. I classify myself as a "knife accumulator" rather than a knife collector, and as such, I've accumulated quite a few knives that are in need of some cleaning up. Specifically, I would like to buy a power grinder that is suitable for polishing scratches, stains, and rust off of blades and bolsters. Can anyone recommend one which would work well for this? I'm thinking a variable speed model might be needed, and I would like to keeps it under $400. I've cleaned up guite a few by hand over the years, but I'm looking for a more efficient method. Also, I'm not doing it to increase any potential resale value. I just enjoy turning something that looks crappy into something that looks nice.

And for the purists out there, don't worry. I won't polish up any knives that have collector value.

Thanks in advance for any recommendations.
 
Any bench grinder can be outfitted with various abrasives and fiber wheels. On a budget you might look into a rotary tool such as a dremel tool.

Forewarned, polishing with power is a bit different than by hand. You need to know your materials, abrasives and speeds;)
 
I tried the Dremel!! It works great to do the dog's toe nails.
I would not suggest it for a knife. One little tiny slip and a new groove not scratch is the result. To finish or restore a blade with a Dremel not only takes forever, but one each of #5, 3 and 1 polishing compound. Then some fine polish such as Flitz. The results are a nearly mirror polished blade. More polishing and you can get a mirror finish.
You cannot just fix one little scratch or there will be a noticeable shiny spot on the blade. You either do the entire blade or none at all. The time it takes using a Dremel is forever and then some.
The cost of the polishing attachments, which last about as long as you can say Dremel, become costly.
Let one of those buffing pads fly in half and while you make a huge grind in the blade. Been there done that...OUCH!!
Using a stationary grinder for me is not any better but it does save time. Unless you know what to use and how to use it about the only results you will achieve is a polished blade. I know of no way using the standard buffing wheels that would allow for a satin finish. Although an 80 grit piece of sandpaper will work it you can maintain the exact angle of travel each and every time you rub it across the blade.
For a small cost you can send the knife to a custom maker who will return it looking like a new knife. How do I know this? I have tried and ruined a few knives that if done properly would have given me a fair profit. As it was not only did I waste money on a Dremel and bench grinder with various buffing wheels but the price of the knife I wanted to repair and eventually sell. I only use my bench grinder to polish a blade now and then for personal use or for a friend. Don't waste your money, but then this is my opinion and results of trying them. GOOD LUCK
 
I use felt pads on low speed with a dremel with the pencil attachments to clean. Then I use super premium polishing paste with a Terry cloth. They look like New. And I work on 7 8 hundred dollar shat n Morgan's.
 
Thanks for the replies. I have a dremel tool and considered using it, but like Chicomike said, it seemed a very slow and possibly hazardous way to do what I want to do. I was also hoping for a way to do something other than a mirror polish.....without doing it by hand. I guess I should look into what kinds of polishing wheels are available for my Craftsman grinder.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top