Looking for a belt sander any sugestions

[Hattrick]

Thinking of getting a belt sander for sharping broad heads, making knifes,ect.  Would like a variable speed if possible an standard belt size which i dont no what that is. Any recommendations would be great

[imskippy]

Post down in the knife forum you'll get the info you're looking for.

It all depends on how much money you want to spend. 2x72" is the common knife building size but look to spend $1500 to $2500 for one of those. many guys start out with a 1x30 or better yet the 1x42" machines. Delta makes a nice 1x42 for about $150. Sears also offers a 2x42" for about $175 also a good choice. None of these are variable spped though so you'll need to go with the better mackines for that option or modify another machine. Good luck Skippy

[Bear Heart]

Go to harbor freight tools.  Wont break the bank.  I have also been told to get that water proof silicone sand paper and not just aluminum oxide.

[Pat B]

Check out Grizzly Products. They have it all and them some.

[Canadabowyer]

Grizzly has a nice 2"x72" knife grinder for about $400.Also has a bigger 10" wheel as an option.  Bob

[bjordnolf]

Another for grizzly

[Ringneck]

I have a KMG by Rob Frink and it is a super grinder. You are looking at a pretty good outlay of cash. If I couldn't swing it I would buy a Coote grinder.

 http://www.cootebeltgrinder.com/Prices/index.html

[Chuck Hoopes]

Just about any ole belt sander will do the job.  I found one at a pawn shop for $50-- been sharpen my zwickeys on it for years- works great, its fast, and I don't even bother to touch em up w,a file, after the belt.  Edges are rough,( belt is rough 50) but very sharp.    I suspect that if you looked closely at them w, a magnifying glass-- you see something that approximated a fine -serrated edge- which is a nice why to get more cutting edge- been taking deer w them for 15yrs. no probs.  they cut better than the ones I use to spend hours honing w/ files and stones.  I now spend about 30 sec.s sharpening one. Just get lay it on the belt,at the angle of the bevel,(good lightening is most helpful) develop a burr, flip it over and just touch it down to remove some of the burr-- Your good to go.

[TaterHill Archer]

harbor freight with Lee Valley Tools belts works well for sharpening.

[Rusty in Fla.]

Chuck, that "rough" sharp edge will act more like a stone point making a rough cut than a surgical incision which is a great thing as it causes more blood loss.

  A friend here is a cabinet maker and swears by Grizzly tools. He wouldn't own anything but.

[Hattrick]

THANKS Guys for the input!

[2treks]

The coote is a great buy. Lots of sizes and you can add your own motor to save $$$ and suit your needs.  Google for coote belt grinder. Chuck

[Boneyard Bowhunter]

If you are going to make knives you want a 2x72. Grizzly has about the best price and it is a good grinder.