Knifemaking is one of the oldest crafts globally, which has evolved into one of the highest crafts over time. So if you are thinking of making a knife, the first thing that comes to mind is the best belt grinder for knife making? Because the tool that can help you the most to make a knife is the belt sander. A good belt sander will help you in every field, from the initial stage of knife making to finishing. As your home’s important part you should use Water Heater but sometimes you facing problem about Water Heater Installation don’t worry you can get this Installation service easy.
But is any belt sander suitable for making knives? Unfortunately, the answer is “no.” You can do a lot of work using one machine, but you need to use the right tool for that particular job to work perfectly. We will review here some of the belt sanders that are best for knife making. Any one of these can make your knifemaking process much easier and more dynamic.
Review of the Best Belt Grinder for Knife Making
1. Happybuy 2Hp Belt Grinder 2 X 82 inches Bench Belt Sander, and Flat Platen Tool Rest for Knife Making.
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Specifications:
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Happybuy D51845 table belt sander accomplishes three different grindings by one working arm. Only by changing the corresponding wheels can you achieve the desired grinding effect. It has a 1.5 KW full copper motor. Thus, it ensures high efficiency and tiny noise. This machine also includes a radiator fan that helps continuously work for a long time.
A high-strength steel plate is used to construct this tool, which allows for longer service life. The thickened square base of D51845 is sturdy and ensures smooth working. You can adjust the belt position as required and replace it easily. This bench belt sander is suitable for making knives.
Using this variable-speed belt grinder machine, you can easily complete stock removal, profiling, satin, or mirror finish tasks. Happybuy D51845 bench belt grinder is an all-steel construction, which provides solid and precise belt control. The tracking of this machine is very stable because it runs smoothly. Happybuy bench belt sander is perfect for polishing metals, wood, acrylic, and other materials. It is a suitable tool for different parts making factories, as well as knifemaking.
Pros:
- High-quality grinding,
- All-steel construction,
- High-speed copper motor,
- Simple operation,
- Variable speed.
Cons:
- There are no information plates on the motor.
2. JET J-41002 Bench Belt and Disc Sander 2 x 42 Inches, Best for Professionals and Knife Making.
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Specifications:
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JET J-41002 bench belt and disc sander have many features to be impressed. At first glance, it will be your choice because it is extremely powerful. The Jet J41002 is constructed from cast iron and has a durable steel base with rubber feet. The build-up quality of this sander is super strong that allows for any heavy-duty work. A strong miter gauge of this machine turns and locks at angles between 0 to 45 degrees on both sides.
This tool will work perfectly, even with odd shapes and angles. It includes an adjustable dust deflector and dust chute to make dust management easier. A removable platen allows for perfect sanding and grinding and ensures excellent finishing even with curves and odd shapes. JET J-41002 bench belt sander can work in three ways: jigsaw, hand file, coping saw.
A 4 amps motor and a disc speed of 3450 RPM, and a belt speed of 3100 SFPM provide ultimate power. It is a flexible tool. You can easily adjust and use this belt disc sander as needed. This tool is considered one of the best belt grinders for knife making.
Pros
- Powerful motor,
- Adjustable dust deflector and dust chute,
- It can work in three different ways,
- Smooth finishing even curves and odd shapes,
- Removable platen.
Cons
- This tool is expensive.
3. Bucktool Combo Belt Sander and Bench Grinder 2 x 42 Inches belt, Knife Sharpener with Large Work Table.
Specifications:
- Brand: Bucktool
- Model number: BG2600
- Power Source: Battery Powered
- Material: Metal
- Grit Number: 60
- Item Weight: 39.1 pounds
- Dimensions: 24.7 x 19.6 x 11.8 inches
It is a multi-function that contains a 2×42 inches belt sander 6 inches bench grinder. A 2-inch x 42-inch high-quality metal sanding belt can be used for sanding and finishing any common metal, wood, plastic, and other materials. Bucktool belt sander and bench grinder meet CSA standards and ensure high efficiency. Heavy-duty construction extends its service life. These machines are equipped with a powerful induction motor that provides the necessary power under load. The motor produces 1 / 3HP, 3.5 Amp power, no-load wheel speed 3450 RPM, and belt speed 4480 FPM.
The belt of Bucktool BG2600 can be tilted from 0 to 90 degrees to meet your project so that you can sand according to your demand. For sanding long workpieces, the belt housing can rotate from horizontal to vertical. This machine is set up with a 6 inches 60 grit white grinding wheel with a tool-free adjustable eye shield and LED lights. Its quick-release tension and tracking mechanism make belt changes quick and easy.
Bucktool BG2600 is decorated with two workbenches which ensure convenient standing. The cast-iron work table provides better support while sharpening knives or other materials. The cast aluminum big work table is excellent for wood material. These tools have a cast-iron base, and to prevent vibration is also includes rubber foot. It is one of the best knife grinders for beginners.
Pros:
- Equipped with two workbenches,
- Meet CSA standards,
- Excellent belt speed for removing materials,
- Motor runs smoothly and quietly,
- The belts are tracked easily, and it is extremely easy to change.
Cons
- It’s not the most powerful and not 72 inches, but a great value for the money.
4. WEN 6515T Belt Sander with Sanding Disc 1 x 30 Inches Belt, 5 Inches Sanding Disc, Great for Woodworking and Knife Sharpening.
Specifications:
- Brand: WEN
- Model number: 6515T
- Material: Heavy-duty
- Grit Number: 80
- Item Weight: 16 pounds
- Dimensions: 11.5 x 11.5 x 15.5 inches
If you are looking for a versatile and reliable sander, then WEN 6515T Belt Sander with Sanding Disc may be ideal for you. The 1 x 30 inches belt sander and 5 inches are sanding discs effectively smoothing jagged edges and splinters of wood and lumber. It has a 2.3-amp motor, which provides users with a belt speed of 3160 FPM and a disk speed of 3450 RPM.
Changing the 1 x 30 inches belt gives you the power to switch sand paper grits quickly and easily. A compact design makes transportation and storage easier. The heavy-duty base prevents movements of the machine while operating. The 5-inch side disc gives you the ability to sand at will. A strong, beveling work table provides a reliable source of support for your workpiece with both discs and belts.
This package includes an 80-grit sanding disc and a 100-grit sanding belt. It includes a miter gauge for angled workpieces, and for vacuum attachments, it includes two separate dust ports. Like other products, Yen has a 2-year warranty. The company provides a nationwide network of skilled service technicians supported by a supportive customer phone line.
Pros
- Versatile and reliable,
- Includes miter gauge,
- Two separate dust ports,
- Heavy-duty base,
- 2 years of warranty.
Cons
- The deck for the disc is pretty flimsy.
5. Palmgren 81093 Bench Finishing Machine 6 x 48 Inches Belt, 9 Inches Disc, ideal for general purpose sanding.
Specifications:
- Manufacturer: CH Hanson
- Model number: 81093
- Disc speed: 3450 RPM
- Belt SFPM: 2700
- Material: Cast iron
- Item Weight: 114.7 pounds
- Dimensions: 28.75 x 22.88 x 13.25 inches
Palmgren 81093 direct-drive belt and disc finishing machine have a remarkable ability to get tasks done quickly. Heavy-duty capacitor motors allow units to operate under load without slowing down or pushing. The belt works quickly in either horizontal or vertical positions and can be changed easily. Both the belt and the disc come with a tilted work table. The construction of cast iron provides structural rigidity and ensures vibration-free operation.
This machine is an ideal power tool for sanding and finishing metal, wood, plastic, and other materials. Common activities include surfacing, finishing, sanding, grinding, polishing, and deburring. Its heavy-duty structure provides long life.
A capacitor motor supplies the current required during start-up and running under load. This quality tool supports operator safety. It has a full belt guard, and the belt action can be positioned either vertically or horizontally. Simple belt tensioning allows for easy belt changes. The machine includes a 1-1/2 inches dust collection port on the disc and a 2-1/2 inches port on the belt. It also has a front-mounted safety switch and is CSA & OSHA compliant.
Pros:
- Powerful enough, the belt does not slow down even after applying some pressure,
- Pretty good for knife making,
- Works quickly in both horizontal or vertical positions,
- Construction of cast iron provides structural rigidity,
- Excellent quality for its price.
Cons
- The platen is not flat, which may affect flat beveling.
6. BUCKTOOL BD4802 Professional Bench Belt Sander 4 x 36 Inches Belt and 8 Inches Disc Sander, 1HP Direct-drive Motor, Suitable for Metals.
Specifications:
- Manufacturer: BUCKTOOL
- Model number: BD4802
- Grit: 60
- Disc speed: 3450 RPM
- Belt speed: 4480 FPM
- Material: Cast aluminum and cast iron
- Item Weight: 44.6 pounds
- Dimensions: 22.7 x 20.6 x 12 inches
The sanding disc and belt paper of the BUCKTOOL BD4802 professional bench belt sander are professional for metal polishing. For easy replacing its use a hook and loop design, which is very much convenient. Aluminum sanding belts are extremely helpful in preventing dust outlets from melting. You can install the knife grinding accessories easily on the belt plate and remove when it is not in use. You can also use this machine for woodwork efficiently.
The 1HP direct-drive motor is more powerful and professionally designed than other woodworking machines. Direct drive design is 25% more efficient than the conventional design. It will get quiet but strong performance as it can maximize the development of a one hp fully integrated induction motor. To make the operation more convenient, the switch box is placed on top of the machine. The tension of the belt is stable, the hard cast aluminum base with rubber legs prevents vibration. You can remove the dust port, and it is convenient to smooth long materials, as you can enlarge the work area.
You can tilt the sanding belt from 0 to 90 degrees as required for the project for horizontal and vertical sanding. The driven drum plays a valuable role in sanding curved workpieces. It has a quick sanding belt replacement design and tracks control function to ensure uninterrupted work. The wide sanding disc work table allows you to adjust from 0 to 45 degrees to meet the needs of your different angles. BUCKTOOL BD4802’s two-in-one sanding machine includes a 4 x 36-inch belt and an 8-inch disc. It is one of the best belt sanders for knife making that facilitates your daily tasks.
Pros
- Adjustable work table with the miter gauge,
- Directly driven 1 HP induction motor,
- The bottom of the arm has thumbscrews for easy removal,
- Easy knife grinding accessories assembling process,
- Direct drive design is 25% more efficient than the conventional design.
Cons
- The dust collection guard under the table is made of plastic.
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Aikeec Multifunctional Mini Belt Sander & Polishing Grinder With 10PCS Abrasive Belts, best for Knife Apex Edge Sharpener.
Specifications:
- Manufacturer: Aikeec
- Model number: 522
- Power source: Corded electric
- Max rotational speed: 4500 RPM
- Material: Metal
- Item Weight: 3.25 pounds
- Dimensions: 9.06 x 6.73 x 5.2 inches
Aikeec multifunctional mini belt sander and polishing grinder is a mini and tiny machine. It can be your best partner because it is very much convenient to do your work everywhere you want. You can transport the 330 x 10 size belt and the 165 x 110 x 140 size machine anywhere. Built-in double bearings, non-slip design, and the dustproof machine is extremely strong and will not break easily. The Aikeec 522 is a computer numerical control (CNC) machine, made with solid material and is high precision. It can avoid effectively dust entering inside of the machine which can damage the bearing.
You will get your work done in the most comfortable way because the workbench can freely adjust the angle according to your needs. The built quality of the machine, exquisite craftsmanship, reasonable design, motor fan outlet easily attract attention. These machines include a super-powerful motor with, no-load speed of 4500 to 9000 RPM.
This tool is great for grinding metals, wood, acrylic, and other materials. It is the best knife grinder for beginners and jewelry or other metal art. This will satisfy you easily and one of the major advantages is that this mini machine will not make too much noise. Its sound is between 75-85 decibels which are acceptable to people. It will not have much effect on the ears of the operator and the people around.
Pros:
- Portable, mini and tiny machine,
- Powerful motor,
- Can avoid dust entering inside the machine,
- Freely adjustable workbench,
- Generates very little noise.
Cons:
- One customer complains it was a slight misalignment with the belt wheels to the base, but easily fixable by adjusting the work table angle.
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Grizzly G1015 Knife Belt Sander 2 x 72 Inches Belt, 8 Inches sanding wheel, Excellent for Knife Making.
Specifications:
- Manufacturer: Grizzly
- Model number: G1015
- Measurement system: Both
- Max rotational speed: 1725 RPM
- Material: Cast iron
- Item Weight: 59.9 pounds
- Dimensions: 30.5 x 16.25 x 15 inches
Grizzly G1015 comes with the dominant power of 1 horsepower motor that uses 110V, single-phase, and 14A. The motor speed is 1725 RPM, the belt speed is 3600FPM, and its 8 inches Dia sanding wheel offers many interesting features. Among the outstanding features are ball bearing construction, a rubber-aluminum roller, a quick-release belt tension. You can tilt the belt arm as you need.
Although G1015 is the best belt sander for knife making, it actually does a lot more than just grind and sharpen a knife. You can apply this tool for different woodworking tasks. By using the quick-release mechanism, you can change the belt in seconds.
The machine provides a great speed that is fast enough to crush the metal so that the knife makers are satisfied. The adjustable hand is very practical, even if it requires some time to adjust. If you have large items, you can manipulate them freely with long arms. The buffing wheel is perfect. Grizzly G1015 runs and spins smoothly, with no vibration or shaking.
Pros:
- Powerful motor,
- A quick-release belt tension,
- Rubber aluminum roller,
- Best for knife making,
- Suitable for different woodworking tasks.
Cons:
- Although this is not a big concern, the work platform is small.
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Work Sharp WSKTS-KO-W Knife & Tool Sharpener Ken Onion Edition, 1 Hour Continuous Duty Cycle, Best for Knife and Tool Sharpening.
Specifications:
- Manufacturer: Work Sharp
- Model number: WSKTS-KO-W
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Grit: 6000 Extra-Fine
- Material:
- Item Weight: 3.1 Pounds
- Dimensions: 5.5 x 10 x 6 inches
Maybe it’s really hard to find an alternative to this machine when you want a super sharp knife. This is the fastest, easiest and stylish way to sharpen knives and tools with precision and repeatability, which has brought the combination of Work Sharp engineering and Ken Onion’s industrial design. WSKTS-KO-W, the best belt sander for knife making, ensures a lot more quality work than conventional belt sanders.
15° to 30° adjustable sharpening guide produces precise edge bevels. You will have the freedom of continuous working for 1 hour as the duty cycle of the motor is about one hour. Because of the variable speed motor, you can handle easily every sharpening task from grinding to honing. There is an option of slow-speed honing or high-speed grinding and improved cooling, so you will get the ultimate power. 1200 to 1800 SFM variable speed control provides the optimal belt speed for the task.
Premium flexible abrasive belts deliver a strong and long-lasting razor-sharp convex edge that you expect. The knife sharpening process is fast and accurate. You will get the results with no setup or calibration time. The 6000 grit super fine belt plays a very helpful role in getting the job done perfectly. In addition, the company provides a 1-year warranty for personal use.
Pros:
- An adjustable sharpening guide for creating precise edge bevels,
- The premium flexible abrasive belt for a strong and razor-sharp edge,
- A variable-speed motor to handle every task from grinding to honing,
- The knife sharpening process is fast and accurate,
- 1-year warranty for personal use.
Cons:
- Quite expensive.
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RIKON 50-151 Belt and Disc Sander 1 x 30 Inches Belt, 5 Inches Disc, great for knife making or working on small craft projects.
Specifications:
- Manufacturer: Scheppach
- Model number: 50-151
- Item Weight: 18 Pounds
- Dimensions: 15 x 12.63 x 14.63 inches
- Warranty: 5 Years
RIKON 50-151 belt and disc sander is just a very cool and well-designed machine, which simplifies your knife-making process. It is also great for small craft projects such as home decorations, repair work, jewelry, toys, doll furniture, and more. It includes a brush-less induction motor in a metal case, which ensures longer service life. For belt support, it has sealed balls and bearings all over with carbon ABS wheels.
Every screw is machine threaded and in metal and not sheet metal in plastic, like other conventional belt sanders. 95% of the tool includes solid alloy with vibe protection caps for excellent support. This belt sander uses 1 x 30 belts, which works nicely to give a very precise shape. Its base is very stable, so it keeps everything stable while working, which is most important for sharpening the knife. For this, it is considered the best belt grinder for knife making. The 0.33-hp motor is not the most powerful, although it is more than enough to start with this efficiency.
Separate dust ports for belt and disc are included with RIKON 50-151; you can hook it up to a vacuum cleaner. The company ensures the modern quality of this machine at every stage of construction. Heavy base with dust-protected switch, vinyl cord based on braided wire reveals the improved quality of these tools. You can store it anywhere with its small footprint. It runs fairly quiet; you won’t need to have separate hearing protection. Despite the low price, it is a high-quality machine with prominent features and the company offers a 5-year warranty on it.
Pros:
- Affordable, best belt grinder for knife making.
- Brushless motor, long-lasting,
- 1 Inch belt for precise shaping,
- The sturdy and stable base doesn’t move while working,
- 5-year warranty.
Cons:
- Recommended for light use only.
Best belt sander for knife making: Buying Guide
Buying a belt grinder is often a big budget issue. So you need to make sure that it is the most suitable for your job. I am going to describe all the things that need to be considered buying the best belt grinder for knife making, hope these will help you.
- Dual Capability
A belt grinder is needed to make the knife, but having a disc and a belt in the machine is a more versatile solution. Most belt grinders also have an effective disc for making knives, so finding the right model should be reasonably easy.
- Stability
Things like knife making are quite delicate. That is why you will definitely need a grinder that is stable during work and does not vibrate or shake. This is because if the tool moves or shakes during the job, fine work will be hampered and may even become useless.
- Table tilting
Some parts of the knife-making process are comfortable to shape or sharpen in a unique position than vertical. Pick a unit that can tilt to make sure you have all the freedom you need. Most belt grinders can be tilted at least 45 degrees, but in fact, for unlimited versatility, we recommend machines that can be tilted 90 degrees.
- Speed
The power of the motor and the smooth speed of the machine is essential. If you only need a belt grinder to make the knife, a slower speed is enough. Medium-speed grinders are more suitable for most hard metals. However, if you want to make a wooden handle, choose a unit that can reach high speeds.
- Belt Size
Narrow-belted grinders can give you a lot more control over small objects, such as sharpening knives. However, if you want to use the machine for other besides knife making, you can buy some wide belt grinders. This will allow you to complete successfully your other tasks besides knife making.
- Easy to use
The machine you are buying must be easy to use and maintain. In order to avoid any complications during or before use, it needs to be easy to assemble. Features like easy belt change save time and labor, helping to maintain uninterrupted work.
- Durability
Some knife-sharp belt sanders are made of solid aluminum, which can be very durable. Some of them comprise cheap parts, which means they can be broken easily and become useless in a short time. None of us have such a wasteful mindset, so be sure about the durability of the grinder before buying.
- Dust Management
Grinding produces a lot of dust and debris while working, which not only destroys your work surface but can also enter the machine and ruin the efficiency of the motor. This dust can also infect the operator. So choose a grinder that has good dust management. This will keep you healthy and the factory environment better.
- Safety
Operating the grinder is not the job of kids and there is a risk of accidents. So you need to pay special attention to its safety features. The selected grinder must have an easily accessible on/off switch. Overload shut-off must also have another desired safety feature, is also include the belt and disc guard. Besides being careful, the machine must have safety features to avoid accidents.
Frequently Asked Question
Q:How much does the best belt sander cost?
Ans: Any tool is bought according to the need and the needs of each person or the type of work is different. For that reason, it is not possible to say exactly how much a belt sander will cost. But in general, you will get 3 x 18-in grinders for $50 to $150, and for 3 x 21-in sanders, you may have to budget an average of $100 to $250. These prices depend on different factors.
Q: How to grind a knife with a belt sander?
Ans: Run a few times, applying gentle pressure on one side of the blade across the belt. The sharp edge will point down to the sharp corners of the belt and again sand on the other side. Close the sander and convert to the 240-grit belt, and sharpen again. Repeat the process for different grit belts such as 400-grit, 20-micron, and finally 9-micron belts.
Q: Can I apply a bench grinder for knife making?
Ans: Bench grinders are another effective approach to sharpen a knife. These tools include a high-speed revolving wheel you can apply to trim wood, plastic, metal, and other materials. You may already have one in your workshop or garage. In that situation, you can use it to sharpen a knife.
Q: When should I change my sanding belt?
Ans: When you continue to work without the pad, it burns the plastic hooks, and the pad is damaged. Then it doesn’t work consistently and you won’t get the same results. This means that the grit is already worn out and has lost its ability to function normally. Here, you need to change the belt.
Q: Why does my belt keep breaking regularly?
Ans: Heat, moisture, and age can lead to belt seam failure, but these are not the only causes. Make sure your belt is turning in the direction shown on the inside. When not using your grinder, loosen the tension of the belt. Keep the belt clean after each operation and store unused belts in a temperature-controlled place.
Final Words
We need a reliable and effective belt grinder to do fine tasks like sharpening a knife. A great belt sander speeds up your knife-making process and makes the job fun. We have done detailed reviews about the many best belt grinders for knife making here, which are effective and the best in terms of quality. Different users have benefited from these and recommend them. Hopefully, you can choose the belt grinder you need out of these.