What Size Belt Grinder Should I Get?

There are several sizes of belt grinder available for knifemaking. They range in size from small, benchtop, hobby machines to large, free-standing grinders requiring dedicated 220V power. Lets go over some of the most common sizes.

1" x 30"

This tiny sander is very popular among beginner knifemakers. It is cheap, readily available, and can offer some of the advantages of a larger machine. However, after a few knives many will find that it is extremely under-powered, and cannot be combined with the different attachments like other belt grinders can that make belt grinders so useful. Belt sanders in this size can easily be found for under $100

4" x 36"

Many people will start with a 4"x36" since it is a common woodworking tool that they have access to. While good for woodworking, these belt grinders typically are not good options for knifemaking. They are difficult to create good plunge lines, are usually underpowered, and, like the 1"x30" cannot use the attachments that make knifemaking specific grinders so useful. They do typically have a disc sanding attachment that, while far from ideal, can still get some use in the knife shop to help flatten parts. Belt sanders in this size can be found for typically between $100-$300

2" x 48"

The 2" x 48" category contains a variety of grinders, some well suited for knifemaking and some not. In this category you will find knife making specific grinders. These will have options for variable speed, and can use attachments such as small wheels and contact wheels in addition to flat grinding. Some 2" x 48" grinders that are sold as knifemaking equipment may have some of these features but lack the ability to interchange these attachments. This can create a limited machine as ones ability progresses.

A properly designed 2"x48" belt grinder does offer some very unique advantages over all other sizes however. The belt length is sufficient to allow a wide variety of attachments, while not being so long to make storage cumbersome. Due to the size of a 2"x48" grinder, the cost is significantly cheaper than a larger machine while still allowing a similar capability. As one of the most common sizes of grinder, there is also a wide variety of belts available.

It is our opinion that a properly designed 2"x48" grinder is the optimal size for a hobby knifemaker. They a great combination of features for knifemaking, are compact in size, and can be had for 1/2 to 1/3 of the cost of the next size of grinder. 2"x48" grinders marketed to knifemaking typically range in price from $1,000 - $2,000.

2" x 72"

These grinders have become almost a given in the knifemaking world. They are typically paired with large motors and often weigh 100+ lbs. They are also often placed on dedicated stands. Because of their size, they do pose some storage issues, especially for small shops. The long

belts are difficult to manage, and attachments can take up large areas if not properly accounted for. These grinders are awesome if you are a full time maker, or have a large shop and can dedicate the space needed. The capabilities do come at a premium however; these grinders will range from $1,000 (for the cheapest Chinese models) to nearly $5,000 with most knife making models coming in between $2,000 - $4,000.

So what should I get?

With so many options, there is no one-size-fits all. If you are getting into knifemaking and think you will stick with it, we would recommend a 2"x48" grinder (and specifically the CRUX 2"x48") as we find their value to be the greatest for hobby makers. If you have a small belt sander already and want to give knifemaking a try, they can be a great intro although we do recommend against purchasing one specifically for knifemaking. If you are a serious maker and building knives full time, then a 2" x 72" will be a natural fit.