Knifemaking sanding belt question????

[warden415]

I had a question about various weight sanding belts used for knifemaking? I have a 2"x72" grinder. I have bought belts from a local guy here and I believe the backing is a "J" weight which is a Egyptian cotton cloth light weight and flexible. I am looking at some belts from an Industrial Abrasive company. They are an "X" weight which is also Egyptian cotton cloth but heavy and stiff.
My question is am I better off with the "J" or the "X" weight? I can get either from this place. They claim the "X" will last longer but I wasn't sure if the stiffer weight would be as good , better or worse for grinding? I didn't know if the heavier weight would "contour" as well as the lighter weight. Any experience would be appreciated. Steve

[warden415]

By the way, I will be useing the belts to not only holow grind the 440c SS but also to shape and finish sand the handle material. Steve

[BigRonHuntAlot]

Steve, You might want to ask this question in the new knife forum instead of Pow Wow.

[Lin Rhea]

Steve,
        I use the stiffer belts while rough grinding and switch to the "J" flex , which are usually made in the finer grits anyway. This fits the natural progression of things. So, I always buy both. I start with 36 (stiff), then 60 (stiff), then 120 ( J flex), 220 J flex, etc. I usually stop grinding at 320 grit and start hand sanding.
                              Lin

[warden415]

Thank you Lin, I can get both weights so I will go with your advice and get them like you said. Steve

[kbaknife]

I use the same progression as Lin, but after the 120 I switch to the new Gator grits. They are amazingly smooth and last a looooooooooooong time.
Tried them yet, Lin?

[Lin Rhea]

Karl,
       Yea, that's what I use too. I'm putting the handle on a camp knife that I have very little hand finishing on. Trizac 100's and 45's
                          Lin

[kbaknife]

10-Roger.

[Mohillbilly]

Where do you guys buy your 2 x 72 belts from as far as best price goes?  
Bret

[OconeeDan]

I like Pop's Knife Supply in Washington, GA.  Nice guy too.  Do a search for his website.

[Lin Rhea]

Pop's is good. Also Riverside Machine Shop in Dequeen, Arkansas. Ask for Al.  Lin