If you are looking for the best knife grinder for beginners, then you have come to the right place. In this blog post, we will be discussing some of the best knife grinders for those who are just starting out.
Blade polishing, sanding, and grinding is a hobby for some and a profession for many.
Bladesmithing is a culture that takes the route of art. And for a good piece of art, there are many tools needed.
The most important tool is a knife grinder or sander. Making knives require talent and practice, but good equipment for grinding, smoothing, polishing, and sanding does help.
Whether you want to make your knives as a hobby or as a profession, it is crucial to invest in a belt grinder that will last for years to come.
There are many features that you need to consider when choosing the best knife grinder for beginners. Every single feature has its own importance.
Below is a list of some of the best belt grinders for knife making.
| Belt Grinder | Motor | Speed (RPM) | Belt Size (inches) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grizzly G1015 Knife Sander | 1 HP | 1725 | 2×72 | View |
| Jet Tools – J-4002 | 1/3 HP | 1725 | 1×42 | View |
| EX ELECTRONIX EXPRESS | 1/3 HP | 3400 | 1×30 | View |
| Goplus Belt and 5-Inch Disc Sander | 1/3 HP | 3100 | 1×30 | View |
| Happybuy 2Hp Belt Grinder Constant | 2 HP | 2800 | 2×82 | View |
Table of Contents
Best Knife Grinders for Beginners Reviews
Kalamazoo 1SM belt sander – The best belt grinder for beginners
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Have a project that is small and requires a lot of intricate detailing work then Kalamazoo 1SM sander is a perfect choice.
The belt sander for knife making is light in weight which means it can be easily carried and used as a portable sander for knife-making purposes. It has the right size and simple ergonomics that make using it quite simple for beginners as well. you can easily sharpen a knife and work on smaller details.
This best knife grinder for beginners does not come with a disc, instead, it has a belt attached directly to a stand, making the machine quite minimalistic.
Features
- Simple ergonomics: it is a sander that is perfect for your smaller workbenches and thus can be used for DIY purposes or one can save space in their workstations. The machine is of 8″ x 12″ dimension, and also has a height of only 22 inches means it is quite simple and minimal in size. Also, you can either bolt it permanently or can simply keep it portable by being bolted to a base frame for stability.
- Durable belt: the simple equipment has one belt for sander purposes and that is quite easy to install and use. One will have to buy the belt separately which comes in various grit variants ranging from 50, 80 and 100 grit belts.
- Dust collection: in the 1SM variants there is no separate dust-collecting aperture. But one can buy a DCV-4 dust vacuum to be attached. Or one can also go for the 1SMV variants which are completely the same as the 1sm one but has a dust vacuum.
- Higher speed: the sander is equipped with a 4” disc and a long bet of 1×42 inches, and thus can be used for different tasks easily. The motor of 1/3 HP is enough for smaller to larger tasks. Hiked speed can be achieved by using a motor of 220V with upgraded RPM.
- Simple adjustment: in this machine, the speed of the belt can be tracked with an easy-to-use lever on the assembled equipment. Also, there is an on-and-off switch to start and stop the machine.
Specifications
- Belt: 1×42 inches
- Belt supporter
- Disc: 4”
- Voltage: 115V
- Motor: 1/3HP
- RPM: 1725
- Weight: 32 pounds
| Pros | Cons |
| Powerful motor | Is handier in grinding longer blades only |
| Sanding belts do not come with a package, thus need to be bought | Tool rest is a bit weak |
| Easy replacement of the belt | Sanding belts do not come with a package, thus needs to be bought |
| No assembly needed (comes assembled) | |
| Versatile and can be used for varied task | |
| Quiet and no vibration |
Grizzly H6070 Belt and Disc sander – A great grinder for knife making
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Are you looking for a versatile machine that provides the benefits of a belt grinder and sander wrapped in one? then look no further, because Grizzly H6070 is all you need.
This best knife grinder for beginners is equipped with a 1” belt and 5” disc sander which allows both functions to be completed effortlessly. This machine is great for those who are looking for something easy to handle for home purposes and small business purposes. So if you have a knife-making business, or like to take up DIY projects of knife making, then this knife-making belt grinder cum sander can be helpful.
Features
- Versatile: the best thing about the grinder is that one can perform both functions on it. the belt and the disc sander allow you to perform different tasks, from shaping the wood to making a knife and also performing many small intricate detailing works. The table with a sander and grinder can tilt up to 45 degrees, thus making the work process easier.
- Portable: this sander plus grinder is super easy to carry around as it only weighs around 20 pounds. Therefore this light machine is compact and small in size, perfect for moving it around. One can place them in smaller spaces and can work in them without handling a piece of big equipment.
- Intricate work: another very perfect feature of this equipment is that it is perfect for doing smaller and more detailed work with it. contouring, complex detailing, dry sharpening, etc. with the help of an idler roller and belt platen is quite easy as compared to others.
- Smooth work: when using a knife making belt grinder or a sander, debris is one of the biggest problems. but in this machine, there are dust ports that keep the dust and debris away making working easier.
Specifications
- Disc sander: 5”
- Belt: 1×30 inches
- Weight: 20 pounds
- Voltage: 110 volts
- Power: Electric
- Components included: bare tool
- RPM: 3450
| Pros | Cons |
| High power capacity | Safety is ensured by on and off button |
| Easy to use and set up | Not so durable |
| Dual function | |
| Safety is ensured by the on and off button |
Goplus belt grinder and disc sander – Another good budget-friendly pick
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One of the best things about this machine is that it is very convenient to use for knife making and other sanding and burring work. there are separate tables for the belt and sander, and both of them tilt at 45 degrees to give access to easy work. and in this changing, the belt is also quite easy as there is a belt tension release lever.
Features
- Durable: this machine is highly durable as the belt and the sander is made up of high-grade material. Also, the component, especially the disc and belt is supported strongly to avoid any kind of vibration while working. This also increases the safety quotient while working.
- Ease of use: one can perform many detailed tasks using this equipment. Also, the assembly of the machine is very easy as all the components are added along with manual instructions. Shaping, sanding, and contouring big and small projects is very convenient.
- Dust plate: to keep the workstation clean and also to avoid a lot of work after the work is done, there is a dust plate. The sending debris and dust are collected in it which can be discarded later, without creating a mess near the work area.
Specifications
- Belt: 1×42 inches
- Disc: 5”
- Voltage: 120V
- Motor: 1/3 HP
- RPM: 3450
- Tracking adjustment
| Pros | Cons |
| Easy to use and assemble | Is not perfect for a long working process, as the motor may heat up |
| Good for intricate working | Not durable |
| Dust collecting port added |
Grizzly G1015 Knife Belt Sander / Buffer – Top of the line Knife Sander
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This is one of those sanders which allows one to spend some money and in return receive the good of a machine to work with.
This grizzly model is a perfect option for grinding and finishing metal knives. As the entire tools are made for high-end metal polishing and shaping work.
Features
- Heavy duty: one of the biggest factors with this knife belt grinder is that it is heavy and that means one will not have to deal with an easily movable machine. While grinding knives, there should be stability to exceed the work speed. This grinder is designed perfectly for that purpose.
- Durable build: the best belt sander for knife sharpening is a heavy-set machine that is designed in a cast iron frame that provides excessive durability. Also, the platen is graphite coated and comfortably bog in size to work on.
- Speed and efficiency: one of the things that one will enjoy while working with this knife-making belt sander is its 3600 sfpm speed of the belt. Thus the machine can be used for professional work easily and give out perfect projects.
- Expensive: yes, one of the biggest things that many tend to notice is its price range. the machine is no doubt expensive but it also does include many good features that many do not have. There is a direct transfer of drive power and an arbor that fixes many auxiliaries like sanding drums, buffing wheels, flap wheels, etc.
Specifications
- Motor: 1HP
- Belt: 2×72 inches
- RPM: 1725
- Voltage: 110V
- Supplementary Arbor
- Ball-bearing construction
- Weight: 105 pounds
| Pros | Cons |
| Durable and strong | Better price-to-machine efficiency ratio |
| No noise operation | Heavy and non-portable |
| Better price-to-machine efficiency ratio | Expensive |
| Unconventional design | Precision is affected due to the lack of a proper tracking system and speed of adjustability |
WEN 6502 disc sander – A great beginners grinder
Have a project that is small and requires a lot of intricate detailing work then kalamazoo1SM sander is a perfect choice. it is light in weight means it can be easily carried and used as a portable sander for knife-making purposes. It has the right size and simple ergonomics that make using it quite simple for beginners as well. you can easily sharpen a knife and work on smaller details. This sander does not come with a disc, instead, it has a belt attached directly to a stand, making the machine quite minimalistic.
Features
- Simple ergonomics: it is a sander that is perfect for your smaller workbenches and thus can be used for DIY purposes or one can save space in their workstations. The machine is of 8″ x 12″ dimension, and also has a height of only 22 inches means it is quite simple and minimal in size. Also, you can either bolt it permanently or can simply keep it portable by being bolted to a base frame for stability.
- Durable belt: the simple equipment has one belt for sander purposes and that is quite easy to install and use. One will have to buy the belt separately which comes in various grit variants ranging from 50, 80 and 100 grit belts.
- Dust collection: in the 1SM variants there is no separate dust-collecting aperture. But one can buy a DCV-4 dust vacuum to be attached. Or one can also go for the 1SMV variants which are completely the same as the 1sm one but has a dust vacuum.
- Higher speed: the sander is equipped with a 4” disc and a long bet of 1×42 inches, and thus can be used for different tasks easily. The motor of 1/3 HP is enough for smaller to larger tasks. Hiked speed can be achieved by using a motor of 220V with upgraded RPM.
- Simple adjustment: in this machine, the speed of the belt can be tracked with an easy-to-use lever on the assembled equipment. Also, there is an on-and-off switch to start and stop the machine.
Specifications
- Belt: 1×42 inches
- Belt supporter
- Disc: 4”
- Voltage: 115V
- Motor: 1/3HP
- RPM: 1725
- Weight: 32 pounds
| Pros | Cons |
| Powerful motor | Is handier in grinding longer blades only |
| Easy and durable tracking system of the equipment | Tool rest is a bit weak |
| Easy replacement of belt | Sanding belts do not come with package, thus needs to be bought |
| No assembly needed (comes assembled) | |
| Versatile and can be used for varied task | |
| Quite and no vibration |
Central machinery belt grinder and sander – Best grinder for versatility
Looking for something that is within budget but also has good power output? Then, the central machinery’s grinder is the best option for all kinds of projects. The overall specification given by the grinder is quite decent and is good for the money paid.
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Features
- Basic and easy to use: one of the biggest factors that drive this machine is that it is easy to use and quite comfortable to work on even by beginners. The overall performance is quite satisfactory especially if you are planning to use it for DIY purposes.
- Less vibration: one of the best things about this model is that there are rubber feet attached at the base which does not allow movement and vibration. Due to lesser vibration work, efficiency is increased multi-fold.
- Dust collection: the best grinder for knife making also has a dust collection chute that helps in keeping the workspace clean of debris and material dust.
- Easy workability: the grinder has table tilting and belt tracing features which make sanding easier at varied angles. Also, the backplate is removal, which makes the curve sanding a Stock removal features also make the finishing better and smoother.
Specifications
- Weight: 13.2 pounds
- Motor: 1/3 HP
- RPM: 3400
- Voltage: 120V
- Belt: 1×30 inches
- Tilt of table: till 45 degrees
| Pros | Cons |
| Stock removal process is fast | Cannot be counted as a high-end grinding performer |
| Base is heavy-duty providing extra support | Overheating of motor is a problem |
| Can perform a variety of work | |
| Lightweight and affordable |
JET J-4002 belt grinder and sander – Best heavy-duty grinder
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For those who are looking for a bench-top sander that can be used both for hobby purposes and professional usage, then the JET J-4002 is perfect as a grinder. This combination machine is perfect for projects which require either disc sanding or belt grinding. Though heavy, it has a heavy metal base that does not allow the machine to move around much while working on it.
Features
- Powerful finish: this grinder cum sander is perfect for those who are looking for perfect and high ned finish to their knives. Smaller and non-accessible areas can be ground and also trickiest of surfaces can be easily managed.
- Easy working: tilt table of 45 degrees allows easy sanding and grinding. this way one can work in many difficult angles and elevations. The excess materials can also be removed easily while using the tilt table. also, there is a 15″ section near for grinding, and a sander table of 6×6.
- Multifunction: the powerful motor of 1/3 HP allows the user to use the machine for variable purposes. It can help in sawing, sanding, burring, grinding and finishing various projects in lesser time. one will not have to buy different tools for different projects anymore.
Specification
- Belt: 1×42 inches
- Voltage: 115V
- RPM: 1725
- Motor: 1/3HP
- Weight: 62 pounds
- Dust deflector
- Idler wheel cover
| Pros | Cons |
| Has rubber feet to minimize vibrations | Switch for on/off function is not that strong and well designed |
| Easy belt replacing procedure | Not portable |
| Versatile and can do a variety of functions | |
| Result-oriented design | |
| Iron cast body provides extra durability |
JET J-41002 belt grinder and sander – The most professional grinder
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This sanding and belt grinding machine is heavy-duty equipment and thus is perfect for those who are well experienced and are professionals. The machine runs at a higher speed due to high powered motor and thus is effortless for those who want time-efficient sanders.
Features
- Heavy duty: one of the major reasons why this machine is said to be a professional pick is because the equipment is heavy and thus is highly supported. There is no need for any type of reinforcement, and also there is no vibration while sanding.
- Many functions: one can perform any type of heavy-duty work with the help of this sander. One can saw, sand, grind, and even do intricate work like polishing and finishing a knife. Therefore it can be said that it is a versatile machine perfect for all types of work.
- Dust collection: there is a dust collecting port that allows the dust to be collected and does not let the workspace be filled with debris. There is also protective gear on the wheel which ensures protection and safety.
Specifications
- Belt: 2×42 inches
- Disc: 8”
- Miter gauge
- Abrasive belt
- Weight: 60 pounds
- Voltage: 115V
- Motor: ¾ HP
- RPM: 3425
| Pros | Cons |
| Miter gauge for easy adjustments | Very heavy and cannot be moved around |
| Dust port is therefore easy to clean | There are switch-locking tabs |
| The dust port is therefore easy to clean | |
| There are switch locking tabs |
FAQ
What is the difference between a belt sander and a belt grinder?
There is a difference between a belt sander and a belt grinder, but for the most part, it is in the name.
A belt sander is just that, a belt sander, and it uses a belt that is made up of sandpaper. A belt grinder is a belt sander, but it is also a tool that you can use to grind metals and metal ores.
So, if your belt grinder can be used for more than just grinding, then it is a belt grinder.
Can you use belt sanders for knife making?
As a knife maker, you may wonder what you can use a belt sander for. While you may want to avoid the belt sander as a replacement for your sharpening stones, you can use it to shape your knife blades, handles and other knife components.
What is a good belt grinder for knife making?
As much as we would like to, we can’t cover all of the different brands and models out there. The best belt grinder for knifemaking is the Goplus Belt and 5-Inch Disc Sander, which comes with a 1 x 32-inch belt sander and a 5-inch disk sander.
Features of a Good Belt Grinder
Belt: grinders and sanders are classified and identified for knife-making purposes, by their belt width and length. The best knife grinder for beginners should have the feature by which you can fix many types of belts on it. if you are an amateur then start with 1×30 belt and if experienced knife maker, then go for 2×72.
Tracking adjustment: The tracking mechanism of the machine is what decides whether it will be easy to work on it or not. a good tracking system means better results and better efficiency, along with good control while working.
Motor: A motor is what runs the equipment of a sander or grinder. Higher the horsepower of the motor, the better the performance. if one is looking for a machine that is to be used for home DIY projects then choosing a 1/3 HP or ½ HP motor is fine. But if one needs to handle bigger and heavier projects then it is convenient to pick a motor with more horsepower.
Speed: speed for the machines is to be considered because it is what decides how efficiently work can be done. Higher speeds bring more finesse to the work. A machine can be either a fixed speed machine or a variable speed machine. In variable speed machines, one can easily change the speed, and thus this type is more suitable for professional work.
Dust cleansing: continuous work of sanding or grinding is not an easy job, because there can be a lot of dust and sand particles in the work area. These dust particles can then cause major health problems. Therefore to keep the work area clean and hazard-free, the machine needs to have a dust collection plate or port.
Noise and vibration: sanders and belt grinders are usually noisy and tend to vibrate a lot while working as well. but it is advisable to find a machine that is not that noisy. Therefore choose equipment that gives out less sound, and is also made of a good iron base to minimize vibration.
Strength: to get good value out of one’s money it is important to buy a machine that is strong and durable to get a good life out of it. if you are using the sander for professional use, then choose a machine with a cast iron body and base. This will have the sander heavyweight and strong.
Price: Lastly, the price of a belt grinder for knife making or sanding machine is what needs to be paid attention to while picking the best belt grinders for knife making. try to have a clear budget of what you are planning to spend and then search in that price range. also do not compromise with quality to save a few bucks.
Whether you are a professional or someone who believes in keeping themselves busy with home DIY projects, choosing the best belt sanders for knife making or knife grinders can be a lot of work. one should undergo some brainstorming and a lot of research to find the right pick.
A sander or grinder machine is something that one should pay attention to while buying because there are a lot many options to pick from. Also, there are several features like a sanding belt, belt table, dust collecting port, RPM, motor power, and other auxiliary elements to take into consideration before buying. Do not pick a machine that is too difficult to handle or adjust, especially if you are new to this work. if you want to find the best belt grinder for knife making that is durable for knife making, then make sure to spend a bit of money to get a good tool to work with. However, if you want tools for DIY projects of knife making and polishing at home then there are many budget options available too.
