Which one?

C

cjordan

Joined
Jul 29, 2012
Messages
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So here lately I've been thinking real hard about a belt sander for sharpening. I've got DMT diamond stones, along with quiet a few other sharpening stones and devices. Since I won't be building knives, I'll just sharpening, I have been looking at something in a 1x42. Without building one, I just wish there was a 1x42 that could be slowed down. Anyhow as of now it has been a toss up between the Viel and Kalamazoo. From what I'm seeing they both run about the same price, the only thing is it seems like there aren't but a couple of places that sell the Viel versus the Kalamazoo seems to be on just about every street corner. I haven't ever used a sander for sharpening knives so I know there will be a learning curve "on old blades". I was wondering for those of you that have used both, or own one or the other if you might could help me figure out which one to go with? Thanks
 
Both the units run at a comfortable speed. The Viel runs just a bit faster because of the pulley configuration.

The Viel can be used out of the box and can be used both vertically and horizontally with no modification. Good platen. Very comfortable to use. The newer Viels have a different frame than the older ones so they aren't quite as hefty. You'll need to eventually replace the extremely small rubber feet on it with something more substantial.

The Kalamazoo needs to mounted to / on something. I build mounts for my Kali units so they can used both vertically and horizontally. I needed them to be portable and stable. Also the OEM platen on the Kali unit is lacking. I have replacements made to my specs. Cheap Chinese bearing in the idler. But all in all I like it better for most things after a few modifications.

For once and awhile use and simplicity the Viel is the way to go. 3/8 HP motor. Order direct from Viel.
 
I use the Kalamazoo and have zero complaints. I use 120 grit Norton Blaze belts then follow with deburring and polishing on a variable speed bench grinder. It has been used for hours on end and performed flawlessly. The belt speed is very good for sharpening and is more than capable of regrinds and much more.
 
Never had the Kalamazoo, but have had a Viel for years, and never had an issue. The wheel configuration (size) slows the belt speed down a bit, it runs smooth, and as mentioned, can be setup vertical or horizontal without modification. I think the Viel might be a bit more portable.

Lots use the Kalamazoo,,, I'm sure getting either one would be a good choice,. You probably narrowed it down to the two better choices.
 
I wanted to add... if all you're looking for is to do some sharpening and maybe minor blade work... the Ken Onioin WorkSharp with the Blade Grinding Attachment is a nice setup, with the addition of variable speed for a decent price vs. the ones you're looking at now. I now use it way more than the Viel. Something you might want to look into, depending on what you're looking for.
 
Thanks guys. From what yall have said, it sounds like it's six one way, half a dozen the other.
As far as the work sharp, I've got one but not the KO, it seems like I ran through belts really fast when I was using it. I may be wrong but I feel that by getting the longer and wider belt I can slow that issue way down.
 
cjordan said:
As far as the work sharp, I've got one but not the KO, it seems like I ran through belts really fast when I was using it. I may be wrong but I feel that by getting the longer and wider belt I can slow that issue way down.
Click to expand...

Might take another look... the BGA belts are 1x18, and MUCH better quality. Huge difference from the original device.

Edit: (oh yeah, and some decent aftermarket belts.)
 
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Bump. Thinking about the Viel vs. WSKO w/BGA. I’d like to be able to sharpen large kitchen knives quickly. I can do small blades and high polish on my KME.
 
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