1x30 Belt Sander Showdown

[@Spectt84]

I believe it is safe to say you are the worlds foremost expert in 1x30 belt grinders lol... Does your custom modded varible speed 1x30 have more torque than the new stock varible speed grinder? From what I remember about my stock hf 1x30 was, if you press into the belt with anything more than the slightest feather touch it completely stalled the motor and the belt would stop (or "grind to a halt" pun intended). I wish they were designed to have half the speed with twice the torque/power. But beggars can't be choosers and for $50 it's still a good little machine. Thanks for all your efforts. It's cool to see how far you can take a 1x30.

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

Half speed and double the torque and it would be the perfect little machine out of the box for everyone. Basically that is what the bigger Rikon looks to achieve. Im trying to keep video length moderate length and couldnt figure out how to include complete product test in this "showdown" but will ofcourse be checking torque etc as I use the new ones in the future.

[@stephenwalther9702]

PLEASE explain how you modified the Rikon shown with the extended shaft collar...does the cover over the disc sander easily remove? Please help! Can't find answer in any of your later videos on the variable speed Rikon 50-161vs. Thanks!

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

@@stephenwalther9702 sorry I missed your comment. I didnt modify the Rikon shaft so much as just removed the shroud. I abandoned the wheel on that side idea as its a hazzard to be taken seriously if a knife was to catch while sharpening on the belt. *caution*

[@josecantu8575]

Spectt84 j

[@Spectt84]

@Braxton Paul your right nobody cares, the website you want people to go to most definitely has viruses I'm sure of it...

[@rmcdaniel423]

Question to all: I'm just starting to learn about this tool for sharpening. Watching various videos, I see blades held in both directions. With the belt moving INTO the edge, and also with the belt trailing OFF the edge. Take the basic Harbor Freight as an example, mounted upright on the bench, as it comes from the store. The belt is moving down. What are the pros and cons of holding the blade edge UP vs. DOWN?

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

I have videos on these topics. Sharpening Edge leading video goes into alot of that

[@tacousa87]

very good video Ma Sha ALLAH ,,,, i am in sharpening business i like to buy last belt grinder that in blue color where can i buy it thank.....

[@Stoney327]

Hi Cliff As a knife maker, I use a custom made 2X72" belt grinder, but my go to grinder is a 1X30" Harbor Freight for my period correct knives. I rely heavily on the little table(platform) that comes with the HF 1X30". I didn't see anything resembling a table on any of the ones you demoed? Is there a reason why you don't have tables on yours? My little HF rattles to beat the band, BUT it'll grind a nice bevel on a piece of 2inch wide 1095 high carbon steel. I run primarily 60 and 80 grit belts for fast stock removal. My only negative comment is....you did reviews on 4 grinders, but you admitted that 2 of them had issues that needed addressing. In all fairness to the grinders, why didn't you fix the issues BEFORE you did the review rather than stopping and making excuses for them? That's my only negative thought, the rest was great! I'd like to get the Ghosts out on my HF, but I'm not good at those things. The rattling and buzzing is driving me crazy. The belt tracks pretty decent. I've tried taking the grinder apart to correct the tracking wheel adjustment and spring, but I had no luck. There was something stopping me from total dismantle, but I can't recall what it was? I had a stroke and my brain is a little off. Thank you for the good review video. Merry Christmas. God bless: Stoney

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

Thanks Stoney, and yeah I watch my own videos back and wince. I really try hard to lay out the info and always I forget something like what grit Im using etc. The first 2 units are ones that Ive previously shown modifying and using, they get ALOT of use but mostly in sharpening so thats why you dont see tables either. All of the above had the stock standard table you are used to seeing, but I think the orange and blue unit table was round. Hope that helps. Aloha

[@donwooden6358]

@@CurryCustomCutlery does that Rikon actually come with that angle plate that you show? That would be a handy little tool.....

[@troyd0]

Love your videos. What speed controller are you using?

[@Airik1111bibles]

I was given a Sears Craftsman 1×30 and can't find anything on it ....What I like about it is that the belt drive can pivot instead of being fixed, also the belt has a hard surface behind the belt so I can sharpen scandi blades and not get rollover. Its got some rust but runs good so I'm going to clean her up and use it for my knife handle mod hobby. I'm not a very knowledgeable guy on Sanders at all but I can't wait to use this thing....My last sander was way to big and over powered for doing knives.

[@CanadianMapleleaf]

How do you use the Wen for knife sharpening when the RPM is 3450? Thanks

[@cfuzzkennedy]

I am wondering about the guide you have on the Rikon? I do not think it comes with that and would like to know where you acquired it. I have a a Delta that is about 30 plus years old and it works great. I would like a variable speed option though and the Rikon looks like something that would suffice, with a few modifications most likely. I mostly freehand when using the Delta, but I would like the option for a more precision bevel and looks like that little guide might just work out.

[@DAVIDMILLER-nc9vo]

The speed of the motor (revolutions per minute RPM) is irrelevant. It's the speed of the abrasive element that is important. So, what is the feet per second (FPS) of the belt?

[@ALWhiteAuthor]

The Rikon 50-161VS is available from Acme Tools with free shipping in the lower 48. It's 149.99.

[@CuriousKL]

That $149.99 that you claim from Acme Tools is not what I am seeing currently. All I see is $199.99

[@watermain48]

I subbed just out of respect for someone who owns four 1 x 30 belt grinders. That is dedication. Great video comparison, thanks.

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

Was 6 as on last week. The WEN tools a nose dive n snapped its neck.

[@echofoxtrotwhiskey1595]

@@CurryCustomCutlery So you wouldn't recommend the WEN?

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

@@echofoxtrotwhiskey1595 for me after using it for 6 months or more, Its still just a $50 sander, runs a little smoother, still too fast, the motor cowl is a bit more in the way, the frame isnt a full frame like a HF 1x30. Id rather take a full frame HF and add my own motor and be 100% satisfied. My honest opinion.

[@RodgerMyers]

What is the slowest rpm motor you found ? I want to find a variable speed motor to put on a HF model and think with my skill set , time in between sharpening a slow rotation like my Tormek would be better . Thanks ! Great channel and great videos 👍

[@jopsball-turret6969]

I just bought the wen machine and am amazed how quickly I can put an edge on my axes. Still learning, but anyway thanks for the info and I hope that Wen machine has held up ok

[@millerbrosmediaoffgridflyf7767]

great video! One question - Did you make that platen/guide for the Rikon custom? I see the stock base plate was removed just curious where a guy could get that piece you have mounted thanks!

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

The angle guides are available on our website along with all the best belts and sharpening products.

[@swingbelly]

6 years ago! Any current updates? What machines are you currently using, either in the shop or out at the market in your van/trailer? Appreciated.

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

Just check out my current videos. I am still using the Rikons for their ease of use and out of box setup. Ofcourse they dont offer digital speed control or a forward/reverse function but they work just fine. Very reliable and most important the good speed.

[@MountainFisher]

I have a Delta 1x42 with an 8" disc. I've used it to make knives for quite a while, but those one inch belts get used up really fast. I bought a 2x48 belt grinder that's much better for taking down stock, but l still use my 1x42 often, especially for finer work and doing leather edges.

[@OOTurok]

Why are the belts on backwards?

[@headoak3791]

what brand is that new model?

[@DeanO]

With all the 1x30 grinders you have used and tested is there one that stands out in regards to build quality and price for sharpening? Your pimped out Harbor Freight seems to be a good purchase for the money

[@theIndoCurrys]

I get that question alot. Short answer both the stock HF and the WEN are just too dang fast. Off the shelf option Rikon works and is a big heavy duty motor. Its not a perfect machine, the motor slightly gets in the way of longer knives but its very functional tool for sharpening. Best to me is still the custom motor option. Takes a tiny bit of work to mount it and bore the drive wheel out but 4yrs later I still love my machine everyday.

[@erdiabolo]

Hey there! Do you still have the Rikon? Does it run hot? I've been reading on issues regarding overheating. I really want to buy it and would like your current opinion. Im doing small woodwork.

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

I do still use the Rikon 161vs almost everyday in my home shop setup. It does get hot but has never cooked, melted, or smoked so.....I keep using it! lol

[@rustysmith6388]

Hard to compare, you modified them so what does your video offer??

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

Information you didn't have? When I posted this the rikon was brand new. And the custom variable speed is just one of several. It show options right???

[@consistentbass]

Thanks for this review and side by side comparison! Great video! I am glad you mentioned the price. I has helped me reconsider my options.

[@alinch27]

Hey Cliff, glad to see you got the Rikon variable speed unit! I have had one for a few weeks now and am experimenting with it for sharpening. The variable speed is nice! I like the attachment idea for the other side. BTW I have noticed that the VS Rikon motor gets quite warm while using it. Does yours do this too? I'm wondering if that is normal....

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

Papa Green been down with a flu bug, sorry for delay getting back to you. Hoping to put out a full review on the Rikon today. I'll look for temp issues as I use.

[@polisheverything1970]

It's a shame that here in the UK our choice is so limited for 1x30's the Rikon variable speed isn't available at all and the standard 1x30 costs between $100-130 so not at all similar to what you guys buy them for.

[@ureasmith3049]

Enjoying your channel. You do great work with very simple, inexpensive and basic tools. Please keep them videos coming.

[@thomasbritzman6793]

EXPERT HA,HA HA Expert on Junk

[@efrenojeda949]

I just bought a Rikon 1x30 belt sander, could you please tell me what kind of buffing wheel I could attach to the 5" disc side? Im not going to be using the 5" sanding disc, rather have a buffing wheel on that side. Thank you

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

Keep in mind any wheel that you attach will become a serious life threatening hazzard. No joke, if a knife hits the wheel wrong it will be stuck on the roof or you faster then you can blink. Be SUPER CAREFUL!

[@ralphm.6731]

Great video...I have a 1x30 HF, and have been using it for years. Where would I buy the top wheel/bearing? Mine is getting worn. Also the motor needs a little, NO, More torque, bet is a great sander for the price. Thanks again

[@geojimrpu]

Ralph you and Cliff say 1x30, what does that refer to? Thanks Jim

[@RodgerMyers]

@@geojimrpu old comment , but never answered . It is the belt size of that grinder

[@geojimrpu]

@@RodgerMyers thank you. Jim

[@RodgerMyers]

@@geojimrpu 👍

[@randelrobbins1408]

What is the power output on watts or horsepower for each machine?

[@spencer6891]

On any of these sanders, is the vertical plate behind the belt (which you press against) removable so there is more "yield" when sanding round objects, like cow horns for example?

[@derekleung9370]

At 1900 RPM for the Rikon grinder. do you think that it is still a little too fast for fine belts? Thanks

[@theshrubbarber5331]

Quick question, with practice is it possible to get consistent bevels free hand? (Not using the angle guide)? I use to do auto body work and feel I’m decent sharpening free hand with an angle grinder lawn mower blades. Thanks

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

Short answer is yes? I think the issue could be if you sharpen on stages its harder to maintain the exact same angle. Most "pro" sharpeners go freehand edge trailing and knock off the burr. Works, doesnt mean you cant get a cleaner for factory looking bevel by using a guide but functionally good as IMHO.

[@theshrubbarber5331]

When I watched a knife maker in pigeon forge Tennessee, he free handed the grind and bevel. I believe he used 220, then 320 and power stroped

[@theshrubbarber5331]

I may just try that and get the angle guild and finer belts later on, can’t spend too much money at once! Thanks

[@markharris5771]

I have a belt and disc sander with the four inch belt which is brilliant for my woodwork. I would never have thought of the things you have to take into consideration for sharpening knives etc. Thank you for a very informative video.

[@TinNguyen-ts7cr]

Mark Harris n

[@mikec3820]

there are variable speed 120v plugs meant for old school indoor grow room fans. just plug any motor into one and bam its adjustable speed. sold on amazon cheap. good break downs tho ty. from a newbie lol

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

Actually wont work with single phase AC motors. Just overheat with no torque. I tried it. Cheap speed controls work with Universal type motors with brushes. My background is electronic repair so I've tried everything.

[@falopio67]

do they come like witha base or tray to place hands to maintain blade anglr easier?

[@butchusle1242]

Can the belt be mounted on the other side so it will turn the other direction?

[@mpampissideris1908]

well the first machine the yellow makes for making a knife; has the power to shake; and how much does it thank you for?

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

Please don't confuse speed and "shaking" for power. It is the least powerful 1/3 horse power A.C. motor with no real torque. The red one is 3/4hp(3 times as much) and has considerable torque. It just runs smoother with precision wheels and bearings.

[@mpampissideris1908]

that is, red is better; Makes Making a Knife for Bevel; What is the price?

[@craigmonteforte1478]

i thought the video and all the information was awesome on all the machines in all honesty i am a retired Woodworker and i never thought i would have a need or desire to have one of those belt sanders in my shop but all the You tube knife videos has made me think that having one could be pretty handy for fine tuning some of my tools instead of my traditional wmethods of Wet Stones and Grinder wheels

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

with a little bit of practice and a braced steady hand great work can be accomplished.

[@Aviation_Professional]

Sounds like there is a huge desire for a new fully functional machine to hit the marketplace. I flip my harbor freight on its back and prefer horizontal over vertical. I sure would like a nice new machine in the shop... *))

[@johnnydutcher208]

what HP is the RIKON? I noticed one that is 1/3 HP and another RIKON for 3/4 HP.

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

3/4hp is the answer you seek. www.rikontools.com/product/50-161vs

[@andrewkolanowski1020]

About the WEN, did you say that you could mount a paper honing wheel? It's been some time now, which do you prefer, Rikon or WEN?

[@theIndoCurrys]

I mounted and tried a paper honing wheel on both at one time. I still consider it a safety hazzard on either machine. Just a matter of time. I am using both machines on a daily basis but find I dont like either one. New video coming....I swear!

[@randomrestorations4305]

The wheels are not supposed to be flat the reason they are raised is so the belt stays on and self align

[@jaconmayer5940]

Curious if you've used the Grizzle 1x30?

[@adamnichols476]

from what I saw when looking to buy one, pretty much all of the 1x30s look like they are made in the same factory with the same parts.

[@mybalestra]

hello, great video! where can I buy the model with speed variator? thank you

[@MartinSeckofficial]

Thank you for the video, I think you have helped point me in the direction of a 1 x 30. For someone without machinist experience if hard pressed would you go with the wen or rikon after using them both? Thanks in advance for your reply.

[@kevinconville9258]

Very useful video, thank you! I have the Harbor Freight and I can't get the wheels running true. There is also an axis alignment issue where the first idler pulley is inboard of the plane of the drive and top pulleys. All fixable but I think it's going back and I'll opt for the Wen or maybe Rikon.

[@coppulor6500]

what did you end up getting? and are you happy with it?

[@kevinconville9258]

@@coppulor6500 I did buy the Wen but didn't like it either. I wound up with a Kalamazoo 1750 rpm two wheel grinder. I built a base plate and fabricated my own jigs for knives and axes. Far superior to these cheap 3 wheel grinders.

[@coppulor6500]

@@kevinconville9258 interesting. Appreciate you taking the time to respond 👍

[@ScreamingEagleFTW]

i have a 4 " craftsman. Sh ould I keep it and get a 1" or can the 4" do everything a 1" can do?

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

Tough question. It comes down to what you are sharpening, what belts you have, and how well you can control the work. For example, my 2x36 with a 60-100 grit belt is great for roughing in bevels on a machete. For a pocket knife or even kitchen knife, a smaller slower machine would be my suggestion. For control and precision of work...they both have their place IMHO.

[@dimmacommunication]

Thing I hate in belt sanders is that you can't regulate speed :( at least in cheap ones...

[@mattpaisley8706]

Has anyone ever replaced the wheels on these machines with contact wheels, would it even be possible?

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

This is what I had manufactured. Replacing the plastic idlers with poly material and the main drive wheel to high quality aluminum with medium hard contact material.

[@robertmunguia250]

I wonder if you could put a scissor sharpening pad on there on the Rikon? The ones that the scimech uses.

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

a swing arm could certainly work just fine...there is one of my more obscure videos where I show doing this years back. ;)

[@SanBagger]

Well done, U sold me on the Wen for my purposes, what can you tell me about that scissors swing arm attachment. Thanks

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

The swing arm is the Veil S-10. Study unit and cost effective.

[@barkingspider2007]

Looks like a better choice than the worksharp... Great Video 👍

[@adamho5260]

Thanks for the reviews 👍

[@vdog570]

How did you remove the 6in disc sander from the rikon?

[@misaelsalgado7575]

Does anyone know where can I find the last machine?

[@BeaverButter]

What DC motor is that that you used? Any chance you have a link to it?

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

There are a couple options the old tried and true is a Penn State Midi lathe conversion kit, newer options are industrial sewing machine motors off of Amazon. Straight forward install just need to drill new hole for bolt location. The absolute hardest part is changing the drive wheel from 1/2' to the 15mm diameter these new motors have for the drive shaft.

[@fredchevalier2333]

Does anybody know where I can find a scissoring swing like the one showed in the video??

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

Viel scissors jig...

[@REKKnives]

Great video dude! Yeah... You should look at making a cad file and start having some made specifically for sharpeners. 👍

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

Why Josh, I would never *cough* ever *cough* think of building and offering a custom digital reversible variable speed machine with say a rather specific rpm range of 400-4000 using precision wheels and bearings. That would just be crazy to take everything I know and try to apply it to making a machine that addresses all of our needs, at an affordable package price, using high quality components. To do that I would need the help of a machinist shop and a fabrication shop...like the 2 I stopped into last week. Hehe

[@REKKnives]

@@CurryCustomCutlery if I can help in any way lmk :)

[@jamesm.5125]

@@CurryCustomCutlery Where would we be able to purchase this unlikely but highly interesting sounding devices?

[@sethjgould]

Do you have a video that covers installing the buffing wheel on the Rikon?

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

I dont. It was really just playing around and I think I mention is not a very safe positioning for the wheel when the machine is vertical. These machines arent really set up to mount a wheel like a grinder or buffer but it can be done.

[@torgrimsor]

Hi. Thanx for great video! Im struggeling to find the same model with the polishing disk on the right side and the jig at the sanding belt. Have U modified yours? Where can I find the same version? Best regards Torgrim from Norway

[@torgrimsor]

Sorry.I saw your comment about it further up the thred. Thanx

[@ThatOneOddGuy]

Is 200W a good power rating for a 1" ×30" belt grinder

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

Some of it depends if it's AC or DC motor typically you want to look for about a half horsepower 3/4 horsepower is really robust

[@ThatOneOddGuy]

@@CurryCustomCutlery thanks man

[@ThatOneOddGuy]

@@CurryCustomCutlery the grinder I've found has 1/3 horsepower and is same 1" by 30" I gonna assume it operates with AC 240V cos that's what I have in my country

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

Honestly it's the RPMs you have to watch if it's operating at $3,450 RPMs that's too fast to be really effective without danger of damage

[@ThatOneOddGuy]

@@CurryCustomCutlery I should've just typed out all the specs sorry about that Anyway this grinder does operate at 3450rpm

[@philbodden4981]

Very nice info, I REALLY enjoy your vids, I have the Grizzly H6070 that seems to work pretty much the same as the Harbour Freight , I normally use it to establish my primary edge burrs, then I continue with my FINAL sharpening on my assorted Japanese whetstones, or my Tormek T8, depending on my time and or knife size. Thanks, Phil, Cayman Islands

[@craigmonteforte1478]

Pretty nice review / Comparison and Comments the Wen products these days for the money keep surprising me every time someone does s review. On any of them ive been still waiting as a Woodworker for someone to review the Wen Dust Collector set up as its usually the cheapest one on line these days as far as Single Stage not the Air Cleaner as thats been done several times but the actual Dust Collector which you may not need Doing knives mostly ? But its a necessity in woodworking

[@MysteryMycology]

Do you think the WEN can take a router speed controller?

[@theIndoCurrys]

I do not. Sicne making this video the WEN fell off a bench and snapped its neck off. The lack of a full frame had something to do with it. Best option hands down is a stock HF 1x30 with a Penn State motor upgrade. Can build a world class system for about $250-300.

[@RodgerMyers]

I tried that , not much power at the lower rpm . I think it would burn the motor up much quicker using it at that sleed

[@lanehill6123]

You can put a variable speed switch inline on any electric motor making it variable speed gringer. I have the delta with the side wheel. Just getting started in the craft. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

By switch I think you are referring to an inline voltage control or rheostat, and you cant just put that on some types of motors(like this single phase AC motors) without causing a severe loss of torque power and causing the motor to overheat. If an AC motor has brushes like a drill etc then the simple inline voltage control will work. Hope that helps.

[@lanehill6123]

Yes. That helps alot. Ty

[@MikeG-js1jt]

why do you have your belts on backwards?

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

I wasnt sure how to answer this until I looked at video again. You are referring to the writing you can see on the belt so assumed they were mounted inside out? If so...that would just be silly. These belts happen to have the writing on the outside over the abrasive. Weird I know.

[@jims1942]

Thanks for the comparison video, very helpful. I have a 2x42 Palmgren belt sander but also want to get a 1x30, just not sure which one to get. (?)

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

Thanks for mentioning the Palmgren...I would like to get a 2x42 so thats a good spot to start researching. If you were asking me for an opinion on the 1x30 Id say it comes down to if you need want variable speed or not. Either the WEN or the Rikon both seem to be solid tickets.

[@jims1942]

I have a Rikon Drill Press that I bought a few years ago. It is a good little unit for the price. Works fine for what little use I give it. - So is my 2x42 belt & 6" disc sander, I bought it several years ago (2008 ?) on sale at Sears for $129. as I recall, it's made by and is actually a Palmgren sander. It works fine for what little I use it, I know I don't use it near as much as you would though. Good luck locating the one you want. :) This is it = www.sears.com/palmgren-2inch-x-42inch-belt-6inch-disc-bench/p-SPM7891037227

[@brianschleinkofer6251]

Rikon 50-151 1'' x 30'' Belt Sander/5'' Disc Sander by Rockler Woodworking and Hardware $99.99 Rockler Woodworking and Hardware

[@ap0lmc]

I bought a a Wen wet stone wheel combo strop wheel works great with a Japanese Stone gives a mirror polished blade edge. I just ordered a Ken Onion Work Sharp because it grinds a convex edge consistently which is the most durable grind.

[@FastSloW-qt8xf]

I like the one with the buffing wheel.. id put a stone on for carbide.. looks like the perfect machine for grinding lathe bits

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

I love the little WEN but its speed is like the stock HF, just too damn fast without a very light touch. Been using the Rikon and the variable speed just makes it. For anything shorter then a large kitchen knife it can make a nice combo sharpener with wheel and belt.

[@carlcat]

Can you tell me where you got the angle guide jig that's on the Ricon variable speed machine?

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

Most critical piece in my opinion for professional results: The link seems to move around: www.amazon.com/Knife-Sharpening-Angle-Guide-Sharpen/dp/B01HVXFP80/ref=pd_sim_469_4?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B01HVXFP80&pd_rd_r=PRA71J91FDDHVGTY7V9P&pd_rd_w=Y8AUU&pd_rd_wg=seqcz&psc=1&refRID=PRA71J91FDDHVGTY7V9P

[@carlcat]

Thanks for the "showdown" video and angle guide link.

[@mlminto]

is the belt on the delta, wen and rikon sanders on inside out, or is it me?

[@myfilmclip]

funny first thing I notice also

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

Belt just has see thru lettering. Not my favorite belts but what I had that was same same for noise comparision.

[@mlminto]

@@CurryCustomCutlery Gotcha. Good videos.

[@1pcfred]

That's a great collection of sanders you have. I've thought about picking up one of them myself.

[@henrykoellner348]

Hey Cliff, where did you purchase your scissor jig on your 1by30. By the way Max from Virginia told me about and recommended your channel to me while I was there for some tutorialfrom the famous Max the Knife. What a great guy. He and Chris afforded my wife And I the most awesome hospitality of anyone we had ever met. After watching your channel for a couple of months now I can see why Max recommended you. Your passion for knife sharpening, and your personal integrity when it comes to handling people’s property( knives) is right on par with Max and his lifelong friend Tim Robinette. Thank you so much for sharing all the information you put out on you tube. Thanks You, Respectfully,... Henry Allen Koellner

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

Aloha Henry, you comment made my day. Max has been a true standout in my journey and I hope to make it that far someday to meet him. Please give him my best when you see him again. The jig is the Viel S-10, I found it to be very solid construction and a relative value priced at under $100. Hope that helps!

[@borne_free5510]

How do you like the tracking and belt tensioner on the Rikon? I have a Sharpening service www.premiersharpening.com and I might get that Rikon.

[@majorpayne5289]

👍Thx. Decent machines if you take care of them & don't push them too hard. I'd liked to see the actual amp draw along w/ temp @ motor housing & all of the bearings. Thx again for posting as I'm In the market. (SUBd) ✌️

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

Ofcourse alot of that depends on duration or run time. Typically I have a machine on for under a minute before pausing or moving on the next step/machine. The Rikon 50-161vs does get toasty on the housing when doing long work at low speed. Cheap speed control, induction, etc. But in 3yrs of daily use still goes just like my 5yr old delta bench grinder.

[@majorpayne5289]

@@CurryCustomCutlery Thx man 👍✌️

[@bryansmith2130]

Thanks!

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

Welcome!

[@victorcastle1840]

This is #2 of your channel video's and i am liking your video's very much. I am pretty knew at this but old at knife sharpening with stones ( because I'm just as old as dirt ) a hunter . I bought a work sharp, because as you said, it took all evening to just sharpen my wife's kitchen knives, especially the cheap SS ones. Now I can knock them out in a hour. Then hand sharpen my more expensive hunting knives. So where down the line I bought 1 x 30 belt sander and thought I would learn to free hand sharpen. Really liking the sound from the Wen and like the vs on the Rikon.

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

You should find my videos enjoyable then. They're not the best quality and I know it but it really try to show quick ways to efficiently get things sharp on a budget repeatable e

[@freedomgunsandliberty]

I went to harbor freight an hour ago to get the 1x30 but they were out of them. Guess it's a good thing because I'd rather pay the extra 20 dollars for the wen. From the video I take it it's the better budget friendly sander? Sounds cleaner and looks better built. Thanks for the video ✊🔫🇺🇸

[@gravediggermaxvabeachva]

hmmmmm - 50-161.....i like it.....good vid mr cliff.......i will have to look into this new ticket Rikon.......thanks

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

gravediggermax I thought you might like that one...will be putting it thru the paces tomorrow.

[@stephenwalther9702]

Who sells a shaft extension Cliff used to mount a felt wheel in place of the sanding disc???

[@MAViz270]

Rick flai woooo

[@FearsomeWarrior]

Had to check but I paid 150 for the rikon. It was only a little more than the non variable speed model and had a 6 inch disc instead of 5. Easy choice. I bought it for wood but use it for metal too.

[@panagiwtiskalampokas9808]

Hi I live too far from you !!!! can I buy one? l like the blue

[@bobbyharvill4225]

The triex 410d is by far the best. Sandusky ind. is far superior to anything out there.

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

Is this a real product or are you just trolling on by? Got a link? Gooogle doesnt show much for this superior product.

[@bobbyharvill4225]

Curry Custom Cutlery it is custom made in Zambia. I got it while on safari.

[@VictorNg90]

How did you mount the honing wheel on the rikon? Thank you.

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

I get asked that alot. I just bolted it to the side with a longer screw.

[@VictorNg90]

@@CurryCustomCutlery just want to make sure I understand correctly, So you just take out the grinding wheel and replace it with the honing wheel instead? Do you need any modification? Thank you sir

[@hovan1977]

Where can we get the Rikon?

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

Hovan Spenjian you are gonna have to google around. It really depends where in the World you are at.

[@hovan1977]

I'm in NY state...I found it online for $150 w/free shipping. How has yours been? Did it need any tweaking to get it right? I'm ready to place the order if you reply with a positive review/comment. Thanks for making these videos and all of your help!

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

Been inches away from getting next video on the Rikon in use completed, I'll try to get it out today.

[@gravityiskey]

i just want to buy something that does not need tweaking for Christ sake

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

Rikon VS-161...has correct speed and is variable, no reverse Viel 1x42 has correct speed and can be wired for reverse, no variable. Thats your current market options without modification. If you hear of others please share. Its the reason why this channel does what it does is there is no out of box 100% winner.

[@Limicola1]

Just got the Rikon and I have to say, I'm somewhat disappointed in terms of the variable speed. I have no way to measure the speed but subjectively, it appears to me that the speed my Harbor Freight sander is the same or slightly slower than the speed of the Rikon when set to its slowest speed.

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

I was using all of mine side by side today and can definitely say the rikon at the slowest speed is slower then my own personal HF 1x30...maybe I need an optical tachometer? Out of the box specs: Harbor Freight: 3400rpm ~ 3260fpm 1/3hp Rikon: Top speed = ~3248fpm 3/4hp

[@Limicola1]

Interesting. Guess I need one of those tachs too. LOL!

[@1pcfred]

@@Limicola1 A tach will only tell you the rotational speed. From there you have to calculate the peripheral speed of the drive wheel. The US customary formula for that is (PI * DIA in inches * RPM) / 12 = Surface Feet Per Minute (SFPM) None of that commie metric stuff for me.

[@codyorvis6598]

Why does this guy have 6 one by 30s

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

Hahaha, my wife asks the same thing.... Its because I build, and modify machines to be more suitable for sharpening. Never found one yet that ticks all the boxes so sharing what Ive found so far and what people can do for themselves.

[@codyorvis6598]

@@CurryCustomCutlery ohh I thought you used them for bevel grinding which would be insane

[@billybobwombat2231]

But he doesn't have 2 x sorby, 1 x radius master and 2 x cool little Chinese variable speed 25mm'ers, now does he ....mmmmm? , he needs to lift his game a little 😁😋

[@nancyosborne-webb646]

Does what I need

[@DeeegerD]

If you ask me all these belt sanders are flawed for knife sharpening and making. The motor needs to be set back and use a pulley to get the clearance on the table to swivel it 45 degrees in either direction. The Rikon looks like it has the same problem. Why does a company produce a product that requires so many mods (harbor freight type)? The wheels aren't true, the table is blocked by the motor, not enough clearance for thick belts, and no speed control (easy cheap addition). Chinese need to start thinking about quality and not just profit.

[@1pcfred]

The Chinese will make whatever you're willing to pay them to make. $50 isn't going to get you a whole lot of anything today. A good dinner costs more than that.

[@SugarMapleForge]

I like my wen. That's the only one I have though.

[@Bzyguy]

Your audio sucks. Get an external mic.

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

You are commenting on a 4.5yr old video but thanks for the suggestion I did upgrade a few years back. Aloha

[@B.NUKE7400.G]

Что за порнопородия на гриндер?

[@bobbg9041]

seems to me you would be better off making a unit from scratch then tinkering with these cheap chinese made knock off trash sanders. I got one 2 days ago and today I tried it to debur some metal now this wasn't 1045 or stainless steel or anything it was low carbon leadloy steel, this damn belt sander kept stopping and I wasn't pushing hard. I ran 4" and 1" sanders in a machine shop you could not bog down no matter what you did. I doubt the damn thing will sand balsa wood. I could have knocked the burrs off with a file faster. Its going back........ Don't know what 1045 is its high carbon steel without as much nickel as stainless steel, its for heat treating and gets really hard like for machine parts. after heat treatment you can't machine it you have to grind it.

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

Can I ask which machine you have? Was it a Harbor Freight? You may have gotten one where the tension arm isnt loose enough and doesnt allow the motor to turn normally. What you are describing is not normal behavior for one of these sanders under light to moderate pressure. The Rikon 151 or vs161 have a very beefy motor and should be more then capable. I always forget something in my videos. Maybe a horsepower and real world load test could showcase differences. Thanks for the comment.

[@bobbg9041]

No it was a Menards brand. All this crap is slaped together in the same unsafe environment sweat shop next to piles of other crap. If this had been made in the usa even 20-30 years ago it would work, if it was made in the USA 75 years ago it would be cast irion weigh a ton and be bullet proof with the only parts needing repairs are parts ment to wear out like bearings and brushes. If it said sears Craftsman on it it was made by some major brand name company for sears. You can still buy 1930-40's tools today and they work better then most of the crap.

[@garethbaus5471]

I have used a Harbor Freight equivalent (the brand was actually generic) to finish grind hardened 1095, and although slow it is much faster then using a file.

[@blwngt1598]

I absolutely love it when someone goes & buys the cheapest ----insert tool/item here---- & then bitches about it being a POS. Saying that it would've worked better if it was made in the US is most likely a true statement but then again you wouldn't have bought the made in US version anyways seeing as it would have cost more than the super sized big mac meal money that you bought the cheap heap of shit for. Being cheap comes with a greater risk of frustration as well as maintenance costs & down time. Always buy the best that you can afford

[@cheek1m0nkey]

​@@blwngt1598Totally. I think people forget that with the Chinese consumer market, like any other global market, they have choices. The funny part is that they choose to buy junk, and then complain that it's the country's fault. The higher end Rikon (which is probably middle of the market) has cast iron parts and is pretty solid, but is around $300 or 6x the cost of the HF. If you want to go up to Jet or Grizzly, you're talking $600 ~ $700, or 14x the HF. All made in China or Taiwan (we can sensibly debate that Taiwanese manufacturing is some years ahead of China in the woodworking machinery space), with increasing cost usually associated with better designs, materials, and quality controls. If you want to buy US made, let's say Powermatic (although some of their parts are manufactured overseas now) the cost is even higher. You have to take the price point into consideration when evaluating a product. Obviously, $1000+ iphones are built in China so they are capable of making high end gear.

[@swingbelly]

Man those machines are so NOISY! Some sound like the engine on an old VW Beetle.

[@CurryCustomCutlery]

Yes this is a 6yr old video show some of the stock tools out there. The DC motor version is by far the quietest.