What is a good sander to get to even edges?

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Aug 23, 2007
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Maby not the right way but right now I trim my edges close and use a dremel and sanding block. I'm thinking a sander about 4X36 would work well.Any suggestions on a good brand or better way to do things?

I do mostly 10"or larger bowie sheaths.
 
Maby not the right way but right now I trim my edges close and use a dremel and sanding block. I'm thinking a sander about 4X36 would work well.Any suggestions on a good brand or better way to do things?

I do mostly 10"or larger bowie sheaths.

Craftsman bench sander is a good choice
 
I always sand by hand. Takes a couple of minutes..


You are probably experienced enough to glue a lot closer than me.It usually takes me 30-45 min to get the edge and bevels just like I want them.I was hoping a power sander would cut that down to a few min.
 
You are probably experienced enough to glue a lot closer than me.It usually takes me 30-45 min to get the edge and bevels just like I want them.I was hoping a power sander would cut that down to a few min.

I cheat. I cut the sheath pattern oversize, glue it up, then trim all the layers together so they are even. Sanding is much easier that way.
 
I cheat. I cut the sheath pattern oversize, glue it up, then trim all the layers together so they are even. Sanding is much easier that way.

Thanks for the tip.I'm fairly new at this and trying to learn everything I can.
 
Even edges, two words, Disk Sander. My work improved 100% when I got my disk sander. Its a no brainer to getting your edges at 90 degrees and makes the whole process very easy. I use my disk first, then go to the belt for finishing. Delta used to make a 1 x 42 belt, 8" disk sander, but sadly discontinued it recently. When mine goes dead (hopefully way way in the future) I hope there is something out there nearly as good.
 
I cheat too, but I still usually have some sanding to do....I wet the edges then take it to the 2 x 42 Craftsman belt sander......take it slow and use a "sharp" belt, otherwise you'll burn the edges.
 
I use a 4"x36" as well. It would depend somewhat on the style of sheaths you make.
If you have lots of curves then a disc wouldn't work too well, you need something with a "nose". I also use a dremel for tight radii.
 
I cheat. I cut the sheath pattern oversize, glue it up, then trim all the layers together so they are even. Sanding is much easier that way.

Me too Noah,

Actually I usually cut it just a LITTLE oversized and sand them even with my dremel after I am complete.

I am still amazed when I watch friggin' Chuck cut his to size and to a little clean up on his sander.

The confidence and experience make me green for sure!

TF
 
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