The Delta model 23-710 is a two-part machine, offering a fast, dry-grinding wheel coupled with a horizontal, 1,000-grit stone spinning at about 400 rpm and kept wet by a drip system. For establishing the initial bevel on a tool, the small, friable white wheel will remove a lot of steel without overheating it, and the extra width is convenient. The traditional L-shaped tool rest is a bit crude, but with a little experience users can produce consistent results.

The wet wheel is really the heart of the machine and the reason most woodworkers would consider purchasing it. Once set up, the tool rest works well for grinding the bevel on most tools. The tool clamp holds the tool square to the wheel as you move it from side to side. This system is an upgrade over a standard bench grinder, but keep your sandpaper or stones for honing a truly sharp edge.

For flattening the backs of blades, the 1,000-grit wheel works well but takes longer than sandpaper on a flat surface would. And when you are done, the surface requires additional work with finer stones.

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