Bench grinder vs. Stand alone belt sander?

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sen2two

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Feb 8, 2019
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I am planning to build my own belt sander. I am trying to decide on to two main types I have seen used in my searches. One being a stand alone belt sander where a AC Motor is being used to drive the belt. Sometimes having different sized pulleys to adjust speed if need be. The other is a traditional bench grinder. Normally removing one of the grinding stone wheels and replacing it with a machined aluminum wheel to drive a belt.


If motors choice and HP/Torque is equal, what is the advantage of either. Space is a limitation of mine. I Like the idea of the bench grinder version, as It’s a 2-in-1 piece. And from what I have seen, takes up less space overall.


What’s the general consensus on which one to go with and why?

Also... Is there ever a time where the stone grinder left on the other side would be swapped for something of use? Polishing or what not? I am very new to knife making and am in search of what equipment will be needed. Well, not needed... But make this more enjoyable.
 
Build or buy a 2" X 72" belt grinder.
Bench grinders generally run too fast to drive a belt.
A belt sander will do everything a bench grinder will do, better.
 
Agreed, bench grinders have many problems as knife grinders. You want a standard 2X72. You can buy them as a kit and do a lot of the assembly yourself.
 
Listen to Stacy and Bill - bench grinders have very little use in knifemaking. I've got one sitting in corner and it's seldom used. A 2X72 belt grinder does anything and much more than the bench grinder will do.
 
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