The right size grinder...

E

Echo4v

Joined
Dec 10, 2008
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This may have already been covered but, if so I couldn't find it. I am looking at a new grinder and I'm wondering what size I should get to be able to get the most grits.

I want to get the grinder that will allow me to buy the most different grits of belts. I know most grinder sizes will have 80 grit 120 grit and maybe 200 grit belts but I want to know which size belt will have the most grits available. I want to be able to go from about 40 grit up to 2000 grit ( or the highest grit I can buy) on one grinder. So what size should I buy?

Should I get an adjustable grinder that I can use different lenth belts on or is there one size that will have all grits of belts available?

Thanks for your help
David
 
Thanks Gixxer, that's just what I wanted to know. Now, where is the best place to buy those belts?

David
 
Ok, I looked at the belt sites you guys recommended and I noticed that 2 x 42 has all the same grits sizes as 2x72. Then last night I found a 2x 42 grinder for 150 bucks brand new. So, now I'm thinking maybe the 2x42 is the way to go. Is there a huge disadvantage to this size vs the larger one?

David
 
You will notice that the cost difference between 2X42 belts and 2X72 belts is not much different. But the 2X72 will last about twice as long. That could be the difference between using 10-12 belts in a day, or 18-20.

For example, an economy belt at Pop's, a Klingspor 309 J flex is available in 2X48 in 4 grits from 120-400 and costs 2.40.

The same belt in 2X72 is available in 7 grits from 60-400 and costs just another 0.65 and will give about twice as much service.

If you're planning on using it much, that is something to think about.
 
Echo4v said:
Ok, I looked at the belt sites you guys recommended and I noticed that 2 x 42 has all the same grits sizes as 2x72. Then last night I found a 2x 42 grinder for 150 bucks brand new. So, now I'm thinking maybe the 2x42 is the way to go. Is there a huge disadvantage to this size vs the larger one?

David
Click to expand...

I've recently decided that a 2 x 42 is a good one to get started on, in part because of all the belt grits available.......and if and when I decide to "upgrade" to a 72", I'll still hold on to the 42 for handles, leather work, general use, etc.
in other words, I don't believe you can go wrong starting out with a 2 x 42.
 
The things that matter are not belt size or grits available. The belts can be purchased in any size and any grit from most large manufacturers ( I like Klingspor , www.klingspor.com ).
The things that will determine if a grinder is good or bad is how powerful it is and what it was made to do. A woodworking 1/3HP grinder won't work like a 1.5HP metal grinder. The main difference between the term "Belt Sander" and "Belt Grinder" is the intended use. The bearings, platen, rollers, etc. will be more robust and wear resistant on a metal grinder.

Many get started on a 2X42 Sears or similar sander, but they are under powered for more than light use.
Look for the most power available in your price range. And check the amps it draws, not just the HP rating. Many things have a large HP given, but actually produce a fraction of that power. The current draw never lies.It takes about 10 amps to develop one horse power.

If you are thinking of this as a serious and long term hobby, try an entry level grinder, like the grizzly.
http://www.grizzly.com/products/Knife-Belt-Sander-Buffer/G1015

It will work well, takes 2X72 belts, and you can sell it or keep it as a second grinder if you move up to a KMG or Bader ( or other professional grade grinder).

Stacy
 
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