grinder or sander?

[Ellie]

I use a 2" sander without the platen to shape my handles. Now, to make bolsters I would replace the platen and use a low grit sandpaper? I am confused at the difference between a grinder and a sander.
Thanks,
Ellie

[AwP]

I could be wrong, but my understanding on the difference between a belt sander and a belt grinder is in the bearings and seals. A "grinder" has everything sealed better so metal grit doesn't get in there, while a sander doesn't worry so much about it since it's intended for wood and wood dust won't wear out the parts. If you use a platen or not just depends on if you want flat surfaces or curved. A "sander" will work great on handle material and kinda acceptably on steel until it burns out, but a real "grinder" will cost you alot more money but not wear out on steel.

[Ellie]

Thanks a lot. This helps.

I bought the sander from Harbor Freight just for the knives. I have better sanders for woodworking. So, from what you said, I gather the small amount of use I give it (3-4 knives a year) this could just work until it wears out.

Now on to shopping for bolster and end cap material ...
Ellie

[Cold Steel Cult]

I guess this is kinda a moot point now but i heard somewhere that when you refer to a belt abrasive machine as a belt grinder you're stock removing metal, whereas referring to it as a belt sander is when you're shaping wood.

A bit silly if you ask me but, hey I didn't make it up