1" belt sander

[poolhound]

I keep wondering about these sanders and what they would be good for. I just saw a good used delta on CL for $50 and wondered if it was worth having one.

So, who owns one and what do use them for?

[leehljp]

I have three HF 1 inch belt sanders and really like them. Got them when they were much cheaper with 20% coupons for about $20 each (2009 or 2010). I use one with course belts, one with medium or fine and one with an ultra-fine 800 or so grit dedicated for knife sharpening.

I don't use them very often, but they do serve a very good purpose when I do need them. Not having to swap belts (or hunt for them) is a big plus for me. I am surprised at the price of the HF tools now, with many items being twice what they were 5 years ago.

OH, I use them for shaping the head of a chisel, quick grinding of metallic material, grinding/sanding small wood or other parts. I use the 1 inch belts more than my grinder or my 12" disk sander.

[capncarl]

I've got one that I picked up at a yard sale for cheap, figured I could use the motor or something, that the belt would never track, piece of junk. I use it all the time, works great, and is not near as hard on your knuckle meat as the big ones are. I picked up some 400 or so grit paper for it and you talk about sharpening a knife!
capncarl

[LCHIEN]

I do like mine as well. Light and easy to move, doesn't take much room.
Good for small contour items, rounding corners, beveling corners, dowels, etc.
Very handy.

[Turaj]

Another happy owner here. I have Delta belt/disk sander and it is perfect for working with small pieces (I do like to build toys). As Hank says, you can also use it for sharpening.

I say go for it