Hey everybody,
Got a question about what different grits you use when getting a blade ready for hand-sanding. I've been using 60 grit after h/t, then 100, 180, 220, 320, and 400 before hand sanding. I'm wondering in particular about the jump between 100 and 180 - last time I ordered my belts I couldn't get anything in between except a 120, and I didn't know if the 100 to 120 would be much different. Will the 180 grit remove the scratchs left by the 100? I ask because I've been having trouble with scratchs when I start hand-sanding, and was wondering if that's why. Am I skipping too many grits?

Josh Blount

Josh, you might want to look up a similar thread in the Steve Johnson forum, I think you will be very surprised, and probably save a lot of belts as well. pub42.ezboard.com/fcustom...=125.topic (http://pub42.ezboard.com/fcustomknifedirectoryforumfrm5.showMessage?topicID =125.topic)

There are a couple of related topics on the same page, one is titled "you guys changed my life" quite an eye opener. Hope this helps a little. :)

Hey Mike,
Thanks for the leads to the those posts! I had never thought about using a coarse-grit on hardened steel, but it really makes sense. I'm looking forward to trying it. My one question is: do you need to use the cork belt if you go straight to hand sanding from the 400-grit? My personal preference is to hand sand rather than buff - I like the way the finish looks, plus I've always liked doing things with my own hands, as much as I like tools. Thanks!

Josh

Josh,
I think you will do ok going from 400 belt to 400 grit hand sanding,at the much slower speed of the hands you will see the texture change fairly quick from that of the grinder.At least I did.

that hand finishing can really bring out the grind lines

Josh, yeah, I prefer a handrubbed finish myself. If it were me, I would go to a minimum 600 grit/15 micron or equivilant finish, then drop back to the 400 grit to start for hand rubbing, and progress from there. Also what Mike K said. ;)

I go to 600 before the hand work,too.

O:K: guys, here is another grinding belt question: I am building Mike Connor's grinder and I am not sure if I should go for 2" or 3" wide belts. What are your suggestions? I know people that use 4" wide belts and they say that they are better when grinding large blades. Thanks for any reply, Cyrus

My opinion: go for 2". It's the standard, and you will have many more choices of abrasives at lower cost.

And, speaking of Mike, where the heck is that guy???

2, unless you are only grinding big ones.

Cyrus take it from someone who has an odd sized grinder, stick with the 2". I have a 2 1/2 x 60 and am still trying to find belts in higher grits.

just my 2 cents
Mike

Mike, Mine was set up for a 2 1/2" wide belt, but I use 2" belts on it.
I trimmed the width of the wheel with a file while the contact wheel is spinning.
BE CAREFUL doing this though, OK?
2X60 is a lot easier to buy.
I get mine special made with a heavy "X" weight backing cloth from Tru-Grit in Cal.

Thanks Geno, but the problem I'm having is finding the higher grits above 400. I tried contact Burr King and they are not very good at returning phone calls. I will try Tru Grit again and see what they say.

Mike

Tru-Grit is a service focussed company.
I feel they would be most helpful.
I get all my belts there, and they already know ahead of time what I need because they keep thier records.

Thanks a lot guys, I will stick with 2" x 78" ( 50mm x 2000mm) belts. Yes, this is the standard belt size here in Germany and I have good access to Klingspor belts. Hey Gene, I will be doing my Intro. to bladesmithing class in April and will also be on the Spring hammer in , maybe we can meet and you can answer some of my questions with regards on folders. Just if you have the time and patience.:) Cyrus

Here, there or anywhere.
I'll help when I can.
I make just about everything except liner locks.
I quit making those 7 years ago because I believe it is a dangerous design.
I make mostly lock backs with one hand capabilities, or an occational slip joint or two.
When you are ready, just hollar.
Be blessed. :)

Thanks Gene, by the way, I like the traditional folders better than the liner locks so you are the right man to meet! See ya' in spring. All the best , Cyrus