What belt sander do YOU use?

in knife making the best investment is a 2x72 grinder but a little research will show its not a cheap thing, the next thing down is something like a grizzly knife grinder, or a craftsman 2x42 it all comes down to how much you wanna spend now, and how much you wanna spend later, either spend small now and upgrade and just go for gold and get something good, give that search button a little spanking and take it for a test run, you will find alot of good information on here as this question gets asked and covered weekly
 
I wanted a 2x72 but funds were limited. I went with the craftsman since after a few days of research it seemed to be one of the best budget sander options . However, I am just beginning (about to finish my second knife) and already running in to its limitations. That said, I would do it again since I'm still broke lol.

When you buy a sander, make sure you factor in the price of belts. At first glance they seem cheap but you need several belts in various grits. You can easily rack up $50 - $100 worth of belts just setting your self up with a working supply.
 
oic0 said:
I wanted a 2x72 but funds were limited. I went with the craftsman since after a few days of research it seemed to be one of the best budget sander options . However, I am just beginning (about to finish my second knife) and already running in to its limitations. That said, I would do it again since I'm still broke lol.

When you buy a sander, make sure you factor in the price of belts. At first glance they seem cheap but you need several belts in various grits. You can easily rack up $50 - $100 worth of belts just setting your self up with a working supply.
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As soon as you upgrade to something you can slow down your grinds will improve dramatically! I didn't think it would be true but man it was.
 
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I first got a Craftsman 2x42 and used it for about 3 years. I still use it, but have upgraded to a Grinder In a Box, which uses 2x72 belts. I added a 2HP motor and couldn't be happier. It is very diverse and can handle anything I throw at it.

I also use a Delta 1x30 when I need a small belt, but don't use it all that often.
 
I'm using a hf 1x30 right now and it's more than anyone could expect for 40 but I'm not sure how much longer it will last and planning to upgrade to a craftsmen
 
Went from a small POS 1x30 to a 2x72 square wheel and forgot about the 1x30.

The square wheel recently decided that it needed new wheels (platen no large wheel). So, instead of paying the Wilton prices I bought a Bader B-III. Glad I did, it rocks.

Was going to repair the Wilton for a 2nd machine, but have now decided to sell it since the Bader is so much more versitile. Yep, planning on another at some point.

Charlie
 
I started with a China 1x42 for about a year till I wore out the bearings. Then got me a Craftsman. Used it for almost two years. Now I have a Grizzly and it is much better than the previous two. I now have my sights set on a KMG or a Bader. Hopefully will have one by the end of the year.
 
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