Noob 2x72 belts question

[2fishminimum]

hi folks and happy holidaze!
so i just bought an OBM 2x72 belt grinder, with a 2hp motor and a VFD. compared to the hand held belt sander i had mounted in a vice to grind blades with this thing is a dream..

my question is what grits and types of belts are best for fast stock removal?
what types are better for handle shaping?

also id like to know what types of belts are better for finer grits above 320 on post HT blades? i recently tried a trizact belt in 340 and while it gave a nice finish, it got really hot really fast..

ive read a lot on the stickies about belts and grits, but i wanted to post anyways for any other info that somebody may care to share.

 

[Fallbrook Forge]

Ceramic 36 grit for profiling and setting initial pre HT bevels.

I start with a ceramic 60 grit to get the base profile laid down, then I switch to 1" scalloped edge 120 grit, then 400 and that's a really good base for hand finishing. It really minimizes the amount of hand sanding.

The trizact are great, I don't know of a belt that gives a better finish. Slow the speed WAY down and use minimal pressure.

post up your results!

 

[2fishminimum]

this is a set of paring knives I made.. 1 each for 3 brothers. Alabama Damascus steel ( love their steel btw ) and greenberg supplied the handle scale material.