grinders 1x30 variable speed vs 2 x42 not variable

donnord

donnord

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I just finished my first knife from a kit and I really enjoyed the process. I used mostly hand tools except I did use my Work Sharp KO to hog off handle material and a dremel to finish some edges. Buffing the brass bolster with a dremel was not as effective as I would have liked I ended up finishing by hand.
So I am wanting to go the next step and make a knife using the material removal method, and am thinking about a getting a belt grinder. I do not have the budget for a 2x72 and at this point it would be like giving Ray Charles the keys to a Ferrari. I see all kind of videos of folks using 1x30s and 2x42s for knife making. In my search I noticed that Grizzly G0864 is a variable speed 1x30, which seems like a good option, I know Rikon makes the same unit. The I see Dayton 6Y945 2x42 which seems like a more powerful machine and maybe more versatile. I think after a bit of use both machines may benefit from modifications. Do you guys have any input? For background I am well versed in hand tools have worked for years as a machinist and ships engineer. These days though my hands are not as steady as they used to be so I think the quality of my work would improve with the use of a better machines.

Thanks

Don
 
donnord said:
I just finished my first knife from a kit and I really enjoyed the process. I used mostly hand tools except I did use my Work Sharp KO to hog off handle material and a dremel to finish some edges. Buffing the brass bolster with a dremel was not as effective as I would have liked I ended up finishing by hand.
So I am wanting to go the next step and make a knife using the material removal method, and am thinking about a getting a belt grinder. I do not have the budget for a 2x72 and at this point it would be like giving Ray Charles the keys to a Ferrari. I see all kind of videos of folks using 1x30s and 2x42s for knife making. In my search I noticed that Grizzly G0864 is a variable speed 1x30, which seems like a good option, I know Rikon makes the same unit. The I see Dayton 6Y945 2x42 which seems like a more powerful machine and maybe more versatile. I think after a bit of use both machines may benefit from modifications. Do you guys have any input? For background I am well versed in hand tools have worked for years as a machinist and ships engineer. These days though my hands are not as steady as they used to be so I think the quality of my work would improve with the use of a better machines.

Thanks

Don
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1/3 hp is to low for belt grinder
Why you don t buy say 2hp motor and build two wheel 2x42 belt ginder ? It is simple job if you make it two wheel grinder ?
 
I absolutely understand the OPs position. There is an order of magnitude cost difference between the options. Going straight to a 2x72 with vfd and 2 hp or greater motor is a big jump. A 2x42 or 1x30 is a small machine that can run on a standard electrical outlet. All you need is an extension cord, a small stand for the tool, and a small space to store the tool.

Getting a 2x72, you need an upgraded power source (220/240V preferred, high amp 110V service otherwise), a large and sturdy stand, and a room to store the tool (as opposed to a cabinet). The tool costs 10x more, weighs at least 3x more, and occupies at least 3x more volume. All in costs could top $10k depending on your starting point.

I personally went 2x42 option. I did modify the machine a bit, but the mods are quite easy with an angle grinder. The tool is honestly very far from perfect, but it gets the job done for an all-in cost easily under $500 including belts, tools and materials.
 
Thanks for the feedback. How valuable is variable speed? The Grizzly does have variable speed. nMy thoughts on this are I made one knife so far from a kit have 2 more on deck. I wont consider myself serious enough for a 2x72 until I have gotten further into the hobby.
 
Variable speed is a game changer.
I use a 2x42, a 2x48 and the Grizzly variable 1x30/grinding disc combo. I have made knives with each individually, but the 1x30 coupled with either of the 2 inchers will get anything done until you decide to spend a small fortune on one of the Cadillacs.
The 2x42 (or 48), are fast, I go no higher in grit with them than 120 grit. Once I get things to that point I move to the 1x30 variable, and use a light touch.
Get what works for you.
 
The Grizzly variable speed is too fast on it's lowest setting.
True variable speed is wonderful.
 
Variable speed is very important for finishing the grind and handle. If you are just doing small edcs and similiar, 1x30 and quality ceramic belts will be ok to start out. Even if you decide to upgrade later, 1x30 with variable speed might be nice for finishing handles and sharpening. That said i started with a 500w 2x42 and upgraded after 10 blades to a 2x72.
 
Thanks for all the replies. I will most likely go with the Grizzly Variable speed to learn and then move up. When I started as a machinist in the 70's all I was allowed to do was file stock and parts, it was very frustrating. When I brought it up I was told, you need to learn how the various materials feel before you can use the machines. The machines allow you to screw up faster. He had a good point.
 
donnord said:
Thanks for all the replies. I will most likely go with the Grizzly Variable speed to learn and then move up. When I started as a machinist in the 70's all I was allowed to do was file stock and parts, it was very frustrating. When I brought it up I was told, you need to learn how the various materials feel before you can use the machines. The machines allow you to screw up faster. He had a good point.
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You are the absolute definition of a person that should be building their own.

By the time you go through all the steps of upgrading from starter to good, you spend half the price of a grinder.

Look at the EERF
it's a fabricated version of the Bader 3
 
I used a non-variable speed 2x42 Craftsman for years. When I upgraded to the 2x72 with variable speed it was great, but you absolutely can make decent knives with a 2x42.
 
I also used a Dayton 2x42 for a couple of years. For the cost, it was a great machine, but I got a 2x72 variable speed last year. I still have the 2x42 set up and still use it occasionally for things other than grinding blades. I guess my point is that you won't waste your money on a 2x42, even if you upgrade later. By the way, Craftsman, Dayton, Palmgren, Buck, and probably others market 2x42 grinders that are all the same basic machine.

There is a guy on Youtube, Slavik Tely, that makes some really great knives using a 2x42 grinder. Check out this link: Slavik Tely
 
Thanks again, I do have a lot to think about based on your responses. I was even looking up 1-2 hp variable speed motors, and 2x72 chassis. I have to rearrange my workspace to add the machine(s) first. So, I think I am going to get some 1/4" stock and try my hand at cutting out a blade profile with a hacksaw, and a file, and see how that goes. My hands are not what they used to be, but practice makes OK.
 
donnord said:
So, I think I am going to get some 1/4" stock and try my hand at cutting out a blade profile with a hacksaw, and a file, and see how that goes.
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Just two comments.
One: 1/4 inch is really too thick for anything but the biggest choppers, go with 1/8.
Two: if you don't have a high tension hacksaw, get one they will change your life
 
A.McPherson said:
Just two comments.
One: 1/4 inch is really too thick for anything but the biggest choppers, go with 1/8.
Two: if you don't have a high tension hacksaw, get one they will change your life
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Good thought on the 1/8" inch. I do have 2 good HT hacksaws I hope they will be up to the task. I say this because I am heading out to my cabin for a couple of weeks. So hand tools will be fun as I will have time on my hands. I have electricity but also an abundance of time and several new files.
 
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