need some help

[vaquero57]

Hey guys, I need some solid advice. I am building a 2x72. I am serious about this one. I have a 3hp motor and lots of square steel tubing. I cannot decide if I want to build a square wheel setup like a wilton with 2 small wheels at 12 and 6 o clock with a platen and rest or a horizontal 2 wheel design. I only flat grind so hollow grinding is not a question here. Is it hard to grind bevels using a square wheel setup and a rest? I have gotten pretty good at flat grinding horizontally on a 4x36. I would like to try a square wheel design but am afraid that
1) The rest will get in the way of pulling the blade out and rotating down to get the point.
2) I cannot see the back of the blade because it will be facing down to 6 o clock. I use the back of the blade as a reference point to see the angle of my grind.
So tell me are square wheel setups pretty difficult to use and is it best to freehand with one or to use the rest to keep the blade from shooting out of your hands and lodging in a foot? Cory

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" I am a shootist."
Clay Allison
" Does this mean we are bladists?"
Vaquero57
McAlpin Bladesmithing

 

[NickWheeler]

Cory-

I would really try to come up with a design that will allow you to change from one set-up to another. I used to think it was a really difficult task, but after owning a Burr King and seeing several other home-built grinders, designing a 2X72 really isn't that hard.

I think 9 out of 10 makers flat grind without a tool rest...but the thing is, those 9 can go screw themselves if you're number 10. What I'm saying, is that you just have to do what works for you.

If you are fluent grinding with a horizontal set-up, then that may be the way to keep it.

I prefer to flat and hollow grind completely free-hand at about belly button height with the blade edge up. My flat grinding is a little higher, do to the different height of my grinder in that set-up.

As far as doing the point, I just think of an imaginary line, and rotate the blade so that the cutting edge always stays in contact with said line.

Just my way....no more

Nick

 

[ddavelarsen]

Cory, I switched from horizontal to vertical recently. I've found that grinding the blade flats is easier in that position (I grind spine up, always different) but that tapering tangs and getting the blanks flattened out is more difficult.

I'll take just one more opportunity

to stress variable speed (pulleys), and the slower the better in most cases -- at least for me so far.

You'll be glad you decided on 72"!

Nick, your "imaginary line" is a great idea! Thanks.

Dave

[This message has been edited by ddavelarsen (edited 02-12-2001).]

 

[A T Barr]

If you only grind flat ground blades, you ought to consider using a 9" disc. I made
mine (with a little help);^) with a reversible and variable motor. IMHO, it's the only way to go.

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