What size buffer?

Fish30114

Fish30114

Joined
Jan 5, 2014
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I am about to pull the trigger on a buffer. The one I am looking at is an 10" dual wheel buffer. I just wanted to ask for input as to what is the preferred size for a buffer. I can get roughly the same quality machine in an 8" as well. I am planning on using it for buffing/final finishing of sharpening efforts and possibly the paper wheels in the future--as a point of info, this buffer has a 3/4 shaft, so stock wheels of 3/4 inch diameter arbor holes will be needed for it.

Thanks for any input.
 
I have an 8" with 1" wide wheels however I also have, and regularly use a cheap harbor freight 6" grinder with 8"x.5" buffing wheels for most of my polishing because the bigger one is more cumbersome to set up under light and fasten down and crap when the little cheapie still has plenty of balls to keep the speed consistent even with moderate pressure. I'd say, especially if it's more money, a 10" unit will be overkill for any hobbieist.
 
Most buffers and bench grinders are 3650 RPM, which is way too fast with large wheels. I suggest no buffs over 6" diameter. 4" would be better.
 
Some models have variable speed built in.

I won't use a buffer for much. Very dangerous unless you are well trained. I'm confident using one (after a couple of grab & throws), but am very weary of it. I also don't really like the finish they produce but that's just me.

For paper wheels? Absolutely, but be careful.
 
Cereal_killer said:
You can control the speed with a "router speed controller". That's what I do.
Click to expand...
if the motor is brushed you can run it on a router speed control, if not the motor will burn up eventually. i would suggest getting the variable speed buffer lowes has. i have a link to it in my paper wheel tips page. this is the best option.
http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=608864

if you have a high speed buffer, you can turn it into a belt drive grinder using pulleys and a set of pillow blocks. you would need a shaft threaded on each end to put the wheels on but you can get a set of pulleys like they use on a variable speed drill press.
you have low speed when you need it and the same with high speed.
 
The buffer I am looking at is variable speed either 1725 or 3450 RPM's. It seems to be a good quality unit, and has a similar model available in an 8" version
 
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