Grinder vs Belt Sander

[final_t]

Okay, I currently have a 6" fixed-speed grinder that I use for the tool sharpening, mostly for lathe tools. I use waterstones for the chisels and handplane blades, unless I need to reshape them for some reason.

I'm seriously thinking about getting the Delta 8" VS grinder or a similar model, but also have been thinking about getting a stationary belt sander to use for sharpening up (obviously not for re-grinding profiles), or even making a holder jig for my existing one to use upside down.

I'm interested in hearing the pros and cons of this. Either upgrade from the 6" to the 8", or from the 6" to the belt sander, or just keep on with the existing 6".

[drumpriest]

Have you considered a slow speed wet sharpener ala the Tormek or Jet? HF has a model as well that I'm sure works for less $$$. These are not that much more than a VS 8" and probably better suited to sharpening lathe tools.

[jackellis]

I tried my belt sander to do this for a plane iron and made a mess. You absolutely need a jig because the belt removes material so quickly that the slightest misalignment makes things worse rather than better.

I have been using worn out belts to get the bevel flat and at the correct angle. Works well.

[Uncle Cracker]

Using a belt sander, you're likely gonna tear up tools, or belts, or both. A slow speed grinder with a white wheel is good, but something with a wet abrasive is better. There are many wet grinders, from the mighty Tormek or Jet units, down to the HF (which will still get you there), and many others in between. Your best bets are there, depending on your budget.

[dkerfoot]

I agree it removes material really quickly. Here is another minor downside I discovered: fire.

I was using my belt sander to rough sharpen a plane blade. I had done it a couple of times, but this time some sawdust inside started to smolder. Soon I was smelling burning plastic and had to grab it and run outside with it.

It didn't amount to much, but it made me decide not to use it for that purpose anymore.