Sharpening w/ belt grinder

[BigRott]

Hello,

What's the best grit(s) to use for sharpening knives with a belt grinder? What speed is best to avoid ruining the heat treatment? Any recommendations for a grinder under $500?

Later,

MBS




------------------

Nevermind the dog...beware of owner!

 

[misque]

If you post this question in the Shop Talk Forum, your cup will runneth over with advice from many knifemakers, both amateur and professional. Check it out.

For me, I use a new, sharp 120 grit belt to sharpen, but 220 works well too. Don't dawdle in one spot on the blade or you can kiss that temper goodbye in that spot.
I'm a hobby maker, and I use a Sears Craftsman 2"x42" 1Hp belt sander.
Also have a Sears 1"x42" belt sander. Both have worked very well for me and I've made about 40-50 knives(never thought about keeping count) on them and they are good for MANY more. They're great for a non production, hobby type knifemaker.
BTW These are NOT set up to do hollow grinding. Flat or convex, yes.

------------------
If it's stupid but works, then it isn't stupid!

[This message has been edited by misque (edited 01-22-2000).]

[This message has been edited by misque (edited 01-22-2000).]

 

[Dr.Lathe]

I use 3M 9 Micron belts. I run them at the slowest speed my grinder will run and use a Cool Mist sprayer just before the point of contact. After that I remove the wire edge on a leather strop with green polish.
Neil

------------------
Talonite! Pictures are now up on my website!!
http://www.geocities.com/Eureka/Meeting/5520/index.html

 

[george tichbourne]

My choice is a worn out 180 followed by stropping on a fibre(paper) wheel with green polishing compound. Check edge with a piece of leather to make sure you did not miss a bit.

------------------
george
www.tichbourneknives.com
sales@tichbourneknives.com

 

[L6steel]

George, how do you check a knife edge with a piece of leather?????? Thanks and take care! Michael

------------------
"Always think of your fellow knife makers as partners in the search for the perfect blade, not as people trying to compete with you and your work!"