My new Northridge grinder

T

ThatMetalGuy

Joined
Apr 4, 2017
Messages
7
I'm new to this forum but just wanted to give my review for my new 2x72" belt grinder I got from Northridge Tool. I love it! I've only gotten one good chance to use it as my shop isn't quite ready yet. I have it wired at 110v for my convenience but plan to change it to 220v. As I was grinding a knife, it only slowed down just a little when I pushed pretty hard on the plate but with normal pressure, there was no issue with it running at 110. Gorgeous grinder too. The handle and tracking knobs have a great texture to it so even if your hands are greasy you should have no problem getting good grip. It's a very solid grinder with hardly any vibration when running. Very great tracking. This thing is quite amazing and greatly looking forward to using it more.

Here's a video of my first time turning it on and just testing it with a piece of scrap mild steel on a 60 grit AO belt (friend's belt since mine haven't come in the mail yet)
https://youtu.be/RYG81vRoFEU
 
Please keep us updated. I'm about ready to purchase a 2x72 Northridge, but some of the comments in threads I've read have me on the fence. I have spoken with George who is awesome to deal with, but 3k is a lot of coin and there isn't much feedback out on the Northridge yet. I've been using a Dayton 2x48 and its kind of janky, so anything will be an upgrade.
 
Unless you really want/need all the nicer accessories that's on the 3k model, like the 90 degree tilt stand and the extremely nice tool arm (which I got to check out in person, the thing is pretty solid no matter what position and angle you put it in) you can always get the one thats under 2k and eventually buy the extra accessories when you can afford it.
First time I saw a Northridge grinder was at a fellow bladesmith's shop and he has the 3k model, it was stunning.
I got to talk with the guys of Northridge at the Spirit of the Blade show (at Southern Ohio Forge and Anvil) and they're great guys and they had all the models there on display, from the cheaper ones that don't come with a motor, to their fully loaded one. That's when I made the decision to get one and I don't regret it. I just can't wait to get the proper wiring in the shop to have it set up with a 220v plug instead of a 110v.
If you're not 100% sure and I haven't posted anything new before the ABS Hammer-in or Quadstate (both at Southern Ohio Forge and Anvil), go to one, or both of those events. Northridge is in Ohio and they've been to the last few events there so I'm sure they'll be there again and you can check their stuff out in person. Asides from Northridge being there, those two events are great to go to otherwise with all the demos and stuff to buy, lol
 
Another thing to keep in mind is they have more accessories in the works and can see some of their prototypes on their Facebook page
 
Hey guys. I saw this post and just had to add my own comments. Last year I spent months reviewing and reading about allllll the different types of grinders (Pheer, Esteem, Grizzly, ect) and what they have to offer vs the cost. I am the type of guy who wants all the bells and whistles but for the cheapest price (like anyone else). I was about to purchase an esteem grinder and actually had one on hold until I randomly came across the Northridge 2x72! I cancelled the esteem (no offense esteem) and went all in on the Northridge. Not once have I regretted my purchase! I would def have regretted my purchase if I went with any other grinder and then found the northridge! The only thing I have regretted was not going with the pro package because I really wish I could tilt it sideways for horizontal grinding and get a perfect 90 degree grind. I can grind horizontally by hand but I can't get a perfect 90 degrees to the platen/small wheels without a work rest. This grinder is legit and the company is even more legit. They make EVERYTHING themselves and they have outstanding customer service. I had some issues with my motor fan cover being torn from shipping so I text them right away and a few days later I had a new cover for my motor fan. No hassle whatsoever. The grinder's fit and finish is TOP notch (its beautiful) and the power this thing has, even wired for 120v is awesome. I love all the new attachments they are designing that not really anyone else is coming out with yet (Tilting base, their own contact wheels, ratcheting belt tension-er and hopefully soon a surface grinding attachment). The price is very reasonable vs other grinders but you get WAY better quality! Ask me any questions about it and I will be happy to answer!
 
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