Replies

1. 
   lat_axe | Dec 13, 2020 11:00am | #1

   Some months ago I felt the need for a grinder so did some "research" in the market.

   I rejected the wet grinders as just too slow and messy - sold a Tormek years ago because I could no longer summon the patience to stand there for half an hour to remove not much steel, then spend another half hour cleaning it up. And another dollop of lost time re-truing the wheel.

   But I digress.

   CBN wheels looked attractive at first - but they are too easily clogged and ruined with one error of soft metal applied to them. And they cost a lot. One grit-grade seemed insufficient. And you need a grinder to put them on.

   So I eventually got one of these:

   https://www.robert-sorby.co.uk/sharpening/proedge/wped01a-proedge-system

   If you already have a rotary grinder, it's not such a good option. However, it seems a far better way to grind than a wheel-based system, not least because of the numerous grades and types of grit available in inexpensive belt form; but also because of the various inexpensive jigs enabling the grinding of any and everything.

   There's another UK option:

   https://www.axminstertools.com/axminster-trade-ultimate-edge-variable-speed-sharpening-system-106232

   This is more expensive - for the machine and for the various jigs (it takes some Tormek jigs too) - but also slightly more versatile.

   Both machines use the same sort and size of belts.

   In use, I've found mine very versatile and therefore useful. It grinds all my edge tools but can also give many of them a near-finished edge because the trizact belts come in very fine grit grades. Most edges are finished on the machine apart from a removal of any wire edge and a strop on leather. You can even mount a buffing wheel and give your edges the unicorn.

   The ladywife's kitchen knives, gardening tools and sewing scissors have never been sharper either. :-)

   Lataxe

1. 
   MillstShop | Dec 13, 2020 11:55am | #4

   Pricey, aren’t they.
   I may be leaning toward the CBN on one side and a good Norton on the other

1. 
   gulfstar | Dec 13, 2020 12:16pm | #5

   That is what I have.

   
2. 
   gulfstar | Dec 13, 2020 11:01am | #2

   I have a single, 8 inch , 360 grit CBN on my grinder and after 2 years and sharpening chisels and turning tools (I turn about 50 bowls a year) it is still like new. Where does it say that they will not sharpen carbon steel tools ?

1. 
   MillstShop | Dec 13, 2020 11:11am | #3

   Well I got the do not use carbon steel from the “Stumpy Nubs” YouTube video while searching the CBN wheels.

3. 
   john_c2 | Dec 13, 2020 01:34pm | #6

   I forget where I got my CNN wheels, but they are fine for any type of tool steel. You should NOT use them on brass, aluminum, and other nonferrous metals. But the same is true for old timey grinding wheels -- they all will clog with soft metal grinding.

4. 
   MillstShop | Dec 13, 2020 01:50pm | #7

   Thanks everyone,
   I will check with the supplier regarding the carbon steel.
   Have a merry and hopefully the tool Santa has you on the been good list.
   M

5. 
   gulfstar | Dec 13, 2020 02:24pm | #8

   Thanks, Santa is driving a lift gate truck with my Christmas present, hope to see him Monday !

1. 
   MillstShop | Dec 13, 2020 04:57pm | #9

   Sounds good, since I retired I’ve had a few of those stopping here.
   Unfortunately Santa charges pretty good for them.

6. 
   gulfstar | Dec 13, 2020 05:12pm | #10

   He who dies with the most toys wins !