Recommendation? One or two arm grinder?

[whiskyrookie]

I’ve seen some newer designs that only have one arm. Are there any advantages for a one arm design?

This one’s on my wishlist, but it’s a one arm design: https://vashtigrinders.com/products/rift-2x72-belt-grinder-package

 

[Scaniaman]

Two for more versatility and quicker attachments changes.

 

[Drew Riley]

That Vashti Rift looks like a nice machine, but I’m curious how you’d utilize the included work rest when it’s horizontal? Also looks like you need two wrenches just to install/remove? That’s a pretty big design oversight in my opinion.
I’d certainly like to see a more detailed overview, but there doesn’t seem to be much out there.

Looks like they did design a new tool arm receiver, similar to what the tw-90 and others are using. Probably costs extra though, and you’ll still need a different work rest assembly.

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

It might be the photo, but that looks pretty light weight to me .... especially for the price without a motor/VFD. Take a look at the Reeder Grinder.

 

[Ken H>]

Stacy beat me to a comment about the Reeder - the Reeder is less expensive and better design all around.

 

[Cushing H.]

Two arms definitely for versatility. I frequently will change the gap between rest and belt or totally remove the rest. Also some belt changes, especially the heavier belts, are much easier if I slide the rest a couple inches away from the platen

 

[whiskyrookie]

That Vashti Rift looks like a nice machine, but I’m curious how you’d utilize the included work rest when it’s horizontal? Also looks like you need two wrenches just to install/remove? That’s a pretty big design oversight in my opinion.
I’d certainly like to see a more detailed overview, but there doesn’t seem to be much out there.

Looks like they did design a new tool arm receiver, similar to what the tw-90 and others are using. Probably costs extra though, and you’ll still need a different work rest assembly.

Good points! The design looks slick and I’m sure there were a lot of good reasons for their designs. But if I wanted to pick up tool arms and attachments from other makers, it wouldn’t be a viable option.

 

[whiskyrookie]

Two arms definitely for versatility. I frequently will change the gap between rest and belt or totally remove the rest. Also some belt changes, especially the heavier belts, are much easier if I slide the rest a couple inches away from the platen

Didn’t even think of how it would affect changing belts. Thanks!

 

[whiskyrookie]

It might be the photo, but that looks pretty light weight to me .... especially for the price without a motor/VFD. Take a look at the Reeder Grinder.

Thanks Stacy!