Need BF input - WSKO or Kal 1SM?

jbaily1

jbaily1

Basic Member
Joined
Jan 16, 2019
Messages
125
Hi everyone. I need your help.

I have a chance to get a kalamazoo 1SM with extra belts at a pawn shop locally. I have seen it and can attest to it's superb condition. I already own a Work Sharp Ken Onion w/ Blade grinding attachment.

My future goals are to possibly start grinding blanks then maybe getting some sort of heat treat setup and complete the knife construction. My circumstances would not allow a full forge style build. This is my 6 month to 1 1/2 yr plan.

My question is: Should I jump on it or is it too similar to the WSKO to make a significant difference?

Price is great. To be clear, the main purpose will be for sharpening. All other goals are in the future.

Any insight is greatly appreciated.

Thanks!
 
Also, if there is a different machine in the sameish price range I'm open to hear about it. I don't want to rush.
 
The WSKO is not even an option. Too underpowered. Motor is too small and weak and the belts are too small even with the attachment upgrade.

The other option is a harbour freight 1x30.

The Kalamazoo would be better though, more power and belt life but both leave a lot to be desired, yet they get your foot in the door.

I started with the harbor freight 1x30.

I skipped the 1x42 Kalamazoo and got a grizzy 2x72. Getting those full sized belts, 1hp and having the platen not oversized wider is nicer on the grizzly but has some other quirks that keep it from being as nice as the Pheer 2x72 with VFD I got which is worth every penny.
 
I think the Pheer will be a bit more than I would need. I have heard mixed reviews about the grizzly. Does anyone have a 2X72 they recommend?
 
Howdy.
So just to set the record straight, you’re not looking to grind knives on it, just sharpening right?
 
As much as I want to say it will be to grind as well, it’s primary use would be sharpening.
 
How many knives do you own that you would require a belt machine to sharpen them. Get you a good diamond stone and a leather strip. Much cheaper
 
I think it's great you want to start knife making, eventually! You are where I was about a year ago. I considered all the options, including machines like the one you're talking about, but in the en bit the bullet and got a 50x2000 mm (~2x78") grinder with VFD and base that tilts to horizontal. I do not regret it and would seriously recomend you to take time and save up (if you need to) for something like this. This set up is so nice to work with.
 
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