1x42 vs 2x42 grinder

MasonOstrom

MasonOstrom

Joined
Dec 28, 2022
Messages
104
hello all. I’m relatively new here and new to knife making, and I’m looking at making my first grinder purchase. I know there are a lot of threads on the topic but I didn’t find anything that really related well to my topic. I am looking at picking up either a 1x42 or a 2x42 grinder, most likely a bucktool based on budget. My question is which is better suited for knife making. It seems that the 1x42 has a better platten and work rest for knife making, and I like the more open access to the belt. That being said, the wider belt of the 2x42 would seem to be more stable for making longer bevels. I know there are some modifications you can make to the 2x42, but I’d like to start with the best possible machine in my $200-$300 budget. Any input and suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thank you all.
 
Hi Mason. I am a pretty new knife maker myself, started doing stock removal knives about 3 or so years ago as a hobby. I started out with a 2x42 that I got off of Amazon. Mine is a Dayton, but it's Chinese made and is exactly the same as several other models (Palmgren, Eastwood, Craftsman, Norse, probably others). I made some modifications to it, as you stated, and actually it was quite serviceable. Primarily, I built my own work rest from 1/4 inch steel plate, and did beef up the platen. I moved up to an Ameribrade 2x72 variable speed (HUGE difference!) about a year and a half ago, BUT I still have the little 2x42 set up in may shop and still use it fairly frequently for misc. things other than blades. So, I guess what I am saying is that if you start with the 2x42 and later upgrade, you haven't wasted your money because you will probably still have use for it. BTW, if you have not seen his videos on YouTube, look up a guy named Slavik Tely. He makes some fantastic knives, and up until fairly recently he only used a 2x42. Look at some of his older videos, proof that a little 2x42 can turn out a great knife! Can't speak about a 1x42, never used one.
 
I'm not positive, but I think David Mary Custom Knives primarily used a 2x42 grinder.
And he's very well known here.

Coote looks like they have a decent one too, I almost bought one
 
A little above your price range but I really like my Kalamazoo 1SM. It is 1x42 grinder that is a medium speed of 1725 rpm. While I do have a 2x72 now I still use the 1SM for shaping handles and a few other tasks.

I would say the down side of a 1 inch wide belt is it is harder to keep blade flat on platen.
 
I’m also located in Olympia. I can’t help with the grinder since the only spare I have is a cheap harbor freight 1x30…. But I have several tools I’ve outgrown and would be happy to pass along.

If you come across something you need, hit me up. I might be able to help. :)

In regards to Bucktools…. They make a pretty decent product. I just upgraded the Central Machinery 4” x 36” sander I use to remove resin from stabilized wood, to a Bucktool 4” x 36” and the difference is night and day. The Bucktool uses a direct drive motor which is a huge improvement. Speaking of that, want a free 4 x 36? Lol
 
MasonOstrom said:
Olympia WA
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You don’t have a paid membership so I can’t PM you. I have a Norse 2x42 that is modified for knifemaking with the appropriate materials removed and a structurally reinforced platen with pyroceram glass added, too. It’s a nice setup to start with and is less than a year old. I made three blades with it. I recently built a 2x72 and no longer use it. I have a good number of Red Label ceramic belts, including at least one unopened “knifemaker” pack.

It’d be a great package for a new maker, and right in your budget. If that’s something of interest to you say the word & I’ll put together a WTS ad in the Equipment Exchange for you. I don’t think here is the appropriate forum, but like I mentioned you don’t have PM capabilities. If used isn’t your jam, I can tell you the Norse/Bucktool/Craftsman 2x42 with the mods & good quality belts is a very capable setup. It’s pretty fast, especially for most handle materials, but with patience & learning your limitations it’s a great place to start on a budget. Good luck!
 
Lee Valley sells a bare bones 1x42 frame/kit.
It gets lots of praise from woodworkers/hobbiest.

But like what Seedy said, the narrower your belt, the harder it will be to lay your blade's face against the platen. (You will get grooves and waves on the sides of your blade) if not careful
 
Sounds like a 2x42 will be a good starter grinder. Bühlmann Bühlmann I’m interested in the grinder. I know you can’t pm me but could yes send me a message on my profile page with some details?
 
Fixall said:
I’m also located in Olympia. I can’t help with the grinder since the only spare I have is a cheap harbor freight 1x30…. But I have several tools I’ve outgrown and would be happy to pass along.

If you come across something you need, hit me up. I might be able to help. :)

In regards to Bucktools…. They make a pretty decent product. I just upgraded the Central Machinery 4” x 36” sander I use to remove resin from stabilized wood, to a Bucktool 4” x 36” and the difference is night and day. The Bucktool uses a direct drive motor which is a huge improvement. Speaking of that, want a free 4 x 36? Lol
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I think I’m mostly good on tools besides a grinder and maybe a spindle sander, but if your ever interested in meeting up and talking knife making or wouldn’t mind showing a newbie some things, let me know!
 
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