What is a good sander to get to even edges?

R

R.H.Clark

Joined
Aug 23, 2007
Messages
771
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.
 
R.H.Clark said:
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.
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Craftsman bench sander is a good choice
 
Martin Swinkels said:
I always sand by hand. Takes a couple of minutes..
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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.
 
R.H.Clark said:
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.
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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.
 
NoahL said:
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.
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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.
 
NoahL said:
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.
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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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