Tool questions - Restoration/modifications

[pcbj-ri]

Apologies if this is not in the right place, this seemed like the best spot to ask...

I'm trying to set up a little home workshop to restore and/or convert antique/abused/cheap axe heads into throwing axes, as well as being able to restore axes for friends and family who use and cherish them. I've found a number of posts here and elsewhere that focus on hand tools for shaping/sharpening, but I don't have decent enough motor dexterity (injuries from work, carpal tunnel, etc.) to really do any sustained hand sharpening/shaping. I'm trying to find a fairly decent bench sander or grinder that would work for both light work and heavy shaping, and was wondering what you all have used or currently use, if any? Someone on reddit said to use a 2x72, so I was looking at the Grizzly G1015, and I do already have a 6" bench grinder for some basic sharpening...

 

[FortyTwoBlades]

Don't use a bench grinder. A 2x72 belt grinder with proper high-quality belts and a light touch are the way to go if looking at power equipment.

 

[pcbj-ri]

Don't use a bench grinder. A 2x72 belt grinder with proper high-quality belts and a light touch are the way to go if looking at power equipment.

Good to know! Do you have any brands you would recommend, or would the Grizzly I mentioned be up for the task?

 

[FortyTwoBlades]

The Grizzly is an excellent machine but needs some light modification to get working its best, namely a ceramic glass platen liner and a track of a few layers of electrical tape around the centerline of the tension pulley to keep the belt from walking off the machine. Also be aware that it only goes one speed: FAST. So long as you know what you're doing, that's a good thing. But it means there's less margin for error in use.