Thinkin of setting up shop! Whats a good grinder to start out with?!

[Striderco]

I ve always seen KMG's! Also Bader. I dont need a Cadillac but I also dont want something thats gonna break down easily! Thanks for the suggestions guys!!

 

[Huntsman Knife Co. LLC.]

Go with the KMG. Its a great machine and is really universal. You can start with a basic setup and keep expanding on it.

 

[12345678910]

Salem has a great review page here

https://sites.google.com/site/vorpalcustomknives/shop-techniques-3/grinders


Bader, KMG or TW 90 would be my pics
GIB if you want to make one.
KMG is versatile and highly supported.

Go VFD variable speed, with small wheel

 

[Striderco]

Is it kinda one of those things where if you buy a basic one you will in no time want a new better one?

 

[Jeremy Barnard]

I purchased a vfd kmg recently.I've found that I have no use for a the vfd. The three speed setup would be plenty. I rarely use any speed but the fastest. Want to remove less material? Don't press as hard.

 

[12345678910]

Is it kinda one of those things where if you buy a basic one you will in no time want a new better one?

If you started with a 1x30 then a craftsman 2 x 42, then a grizzly or cote, then a KMG that would be the case

If you start with a KMG or GIB you will have a solid base you can build on.
Maybe you spend more on attachments over time, but the bas grinder will be fine.

I purchased a vfd kmg recently.I've found that I have no use for a the vfd. The three speed setup would be plenty. I rarely use any speed but the fastest. Want to remove less material? Don't press as hard.

I learned on a full speed grinder in the same way.
I find the slow speeds really useful in finishing, especially handle material.

It's much easier to avoid burning pins with speed control.



There are dozens that will take that VFD off you for a fair price if you really don't need it.

 

[Salem Straub]

Numbers is right on with all that. Get a good solid expandable machine to start with. KMG, Bader BIII, or even a Burr King 960-272 is a nice machine to start with. I'd lean toward the KMG or Bader.

Accessories in my order of importance: Platen, 10" wheel, small wheel fork, 3/4" wheel, big contact wheel, a bunch more small wheels.

I sure like my VFD grinders. You can always get a basic machine and set it up variable later...

 

[moon59]

Another vote for the KMG. While you're at it get the small wheel attachment as well, you won't be sorry. Moon.

 

[Mitchell Knives]

TW-90

Buy once, cry once.

My KMG is OK, but I would never buy another one.

 

[Patrickknives]

One of these days I will break down a get a KMG, but as a started I recommend a Coote, I have the three speed step wheels. These units are solid, I have used mine on alot of knives over 4 years and it still runs like new. If you got the $$ go for a better machine, if not this is a great start.