Taking the plundge

Cloyde

Cloyde

Joined
Jan 30, 2008
Messages
129
I want to purchase a grinder and would like some feedback on what brand and model. I am looking at a Wilton Varible speed or a Bader Varible speed. If there is another brand you would go with please let me know. Also is it worth the extra money and purchase the 2hp motor over the 1 hp wilton or 1 1/2 hp bader standard motor.
 
Most people here that have bought "high-end" grinders have gone the KMG route. The builder hangs out here from time to time. One day, when the kids are little older, or I have some cash I will get one. Look around this forum and you will see several queries similar to yours. Steven
 
If it was me, I'd go with the KMG variable speed setup and never look back. However, you probably can't go wrong with any of the pro level grinders.

--nathan
 
I use a Bader BIII VS 1.5hp and it's great! Customer service is top notch too.:thumbup:
Mace
 
I have two variable speed Baders and love em. I also have a VFD KMG and love it.
Get 2HP minimum, I wish I had more HP on all three of mine.
 
I love my kmg and even semi cloned it with another old grinder. 2hp and the ability to chang out the tool is important. You can go with a step pulley setup to start. You will not go wrong with a kmg. I am sure a Bader is good too.
 
I'm not sure 'most people' are use KMGs. Bader sells a LOT of grinders and there are plenty of old Wiltons and Burr King 960s floating around too. KMG has a loyal following here, and I'm sure it's well deserved. They offers some nice, innovative accessories for their own and the Bader too.

I agree with others here. Variable speed is a must. 2 HP is about perfect for a 2 x 72, 3-wheel grinder.
 
Three horse power; is like driving in the fast lane. "Sweeeet"
 
I own a Wilton. Converted it from 1HP single speed to 2HP variable speed.
Buy a Bader or KMG. Similar money, better grinders.
If I had the money, I'd probably invest in a Dozier grinder. These tools are too expensive to buy twice, if you follow me.

DO NOT WAIT TO DO VARIABLE SPEED. It is NOT an option. I waited too long to covert mine, and struggled needlessly. Switching to VS pushed my capabilities into overdrive.
 
My educated and experienced advice is to go with the KMG. Ive used all three mentioned and prefer it. Rob Frink is the best guy to deal with too. My only complaint is that you will have to paint it yourself but hey you have your choice of colors that way.
 
I've got a Burr King 960 and love it, I've used my godfather's Wilton for a few months. I prefer the Burr King over the Wilton, from what I've seen of the KMG you can get probably more grinder for your money with the KMG and you can deal directly with Rob Frink (from what I've seen is an awesome guy to work with.) I'll probably get a KMG or build a KMG clone in the future.

To echo what others have said, get variable speed on whatever you get. I made knives for years without it and just upgraded my Burr King to it, I don't know how I ever made a knife without it. It will speed up your learning curve and prevent so many knives going into the "later day" bucket. You'll have enough of those without a grinder you can't control helping. :D
 
:thumbup: KMG :thumbup:

I tried the KMG, Wilton and Bader, as well as the Coote in other makers shops, before deciding on the KMG. I like how easy it is to change out tools, etc. I have the VFD and a 1.5 horsepower motor. I wish I had the 2 hp, but.......maybe down the road. You can't go wrong with the KMG.
 
Go for the KMG (Knife Maker's Grinder). It was designed primarily for us makers. I have had mine for almost 2 years, and I tell the little wifey every week or so how proud I am that she said "go for it".

Best darned grinder and service you will ever find. Rob Frink is one of those kinda guys that is hard to find these days.

Just my $.02 worth.......... and ya ain't even gotta pay me.:D

Robert
 
Thank You all very much, Looks like a KMG, VS 2hp it will be. Like Matthew said it's to expensive to do twice, much less having to pay for the Divorce.
 
Cloyde said:
Thank You all very much, Looks like a KMG, VS 2hp it will be. Like Matthew said it's to expensive to do twice, much less having to pay for the Divorce.
Click to expand...

You will be happy with that. It's a good working grinder. I am happy you are getting a good one to work with. Hope to see some great knives from it. :thumbup:
 
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