Making a knife with a 1 X 30 belt sander?

[@RedBeardOps]

This is awesome man. It's great to see you take the time to "downgrade" the equipment you're using in order to teach your followers! My first grinder back in the day was a 1x30; great for getting in the game! 🙌

[@Simplelittlelife]

Hey thanks James! Much appreciated. It was a question that has been driving me nuts for years. I certainly wouldn’t give up my 2X72 grinders for this but man, I was expecting to have a complete fail of a knife at the end of this video. But, this ground bevels in a very similar way that my main grinders do. Certainly a great way to at least get the feel of it 👍

[@RedBeardOps]

@@Simplelittlelife For sure!

[@cooperwelsh3471]

I just started with the same grinder and it suits me well. Don’t have the space for big equipment. I am very happy with the results I get. I keep on following you both guys.

[@andrejohnson6731]

Red Beard Ops I’m always impressed and amazed at how the knifemaking community is supportive and encouraging! Very wholesome ☺️

[@Thorin7.62]

Have both, my 2x72 is at my home, but keep the 1x30 with me while on the road for work. I like both, and the 2x72 was about $600 more, it handles things a bit better, but almost all of my knives have been made with a 1x30.

[@BushSquirrel12]

I started knife make with pretty much nothing but an angle grinder so I was pretty excited when I got my first 4x36 harbor freight sander. That thing got me through so many projects and was a great learning tool

[@SnoPro440]

I started the same way you did 30 years ago now my go to is a 2 by 72

[@johncole5175]

"Does a good job at keeping the sparks outta my face, I'm gunna take it off." LOL!

[@Simplelittlelife]

Hahaha 😆Didn’t think about that during the edit 👍

[@Reploidx9]

@@Simplelittlelife *Inhales sparks* OOOHH YEAH wake up and smell the GRIND!

[@e.t.preppin7084]

@@SimplelittlelifeI caught that too but I understood what and why you were doing it. I started with a Kalamazoo 1x30 but had to immediately modify the platen. Worked ok for me but I had already convinced myself I needed a 2x72 so I bought one. Single speed. First day I had to change that to a different motor and charge controller. I’m pleased now for what little tinkering I do. Not sure about charge controller, I might be getting my solar mixed in my terminology. Variable speed doohickey 😂😂😂. That was a great video. Don’t know how I missed it. Probably the darn masks. Never again

[@gammon1183]

I've got a 1-30 and I've made 3 inch blade little bush knives right up to a 14 inch Bowie. It does the trick 🙂

[@JohnDoe-ls2ww]

My wife just purchased a 1x30 and a bunch of belts for me yesterday. Great to hear these little sanders are capable of blades over 4”.

[@okami36]

I started with a 1x30. I got it for Xmas a few years ago. My parents picked it up from a Craigslist ad I'd showed them. Someone was getting ride of the belt sander, a drill press, a tiny bench grinder, work bench, and some random bits for about $250 or so. I made a coffee can forge, fired by a map gas burner, and after that first blade successfully hardened, I was hook. My grandparents later gifted me my great-great-grandfather's anvil (he'd been the town blacksmith), and my father gave me the hammers that had gone with it. I didn't get to try the smithing side much before I moved, and now all my forge and workshop is packed away in storage, so... :(

[@Simplelittlelife]

That’s cool to hear. I hope you’re able to get it out of storage soon and get back into it👍

[@okami36]

@@Simplelittlelife Thanks! I'd love to. Currently trying to save up for a house, so I can have space to get back to it. In the meantime, I can sort of scratch that creative itch watching you and a few others do it. Pretty much everything I learned, I did because of the videos y'all have shared with us. Thanks! Happy New Year!

[@jameshoffman1842]

I to feel your pain about your storage blacksmith shop in a box...not knowing your residential restrictions, (renting buying rent to own apt. Etc. a portable building of a size that can accommodate your shop in a box MIGHT be something for you to look into.. ( THATS my plans ) go for it bud- all that stuff between the ears & in the box is going to waste...( The only true sin-WASTE )

[@okami36]

@@jameshoffman1842 I'd love to be able to do something like that, but with my current renting situation, it just isn't possible. Maybe when we move, or certainly if we can buy a place, we'll figure out how to get it set up again.

[@jailer23044]

I've used a harbor freight 1x30" for years now and while you have to grind a bit slower it works pretty well, especially for the price. Your Princess Auto model seems a little nicer and mine doesn't have the disk sander but otherwise it's essentially the same machine.

[@JBPalmer]

I’ve gotta agree man this 1x30 seems to be a lot better quality than my harbor freight model

[@F0XD1E]

They're both advertised as 1/3hp so hopefully the hf will perform the same. The princess auto looks like it has better tables.

[@csteingraber]

This is funny to see because I recently bought one from harbor freight and it is the same with side disk and everything. Table tilts easy the lock handle doesnt grab it too strong. And belt slows down easily if you put more pressure but it’s usable for sure. Mine was like $75. Now I have to go see if they have knife making handles in my store!

[@MB-xp7cu]

My first grinder was a 1x30 from harbor freight. Made about 20 knives with it until I could afford a 2x72. I totally agree this is a great way to get started at a fairly low price

[@Simplelittlelife]

Right on. I’m glad I tried it out because I had no idea they could be this decent and knife making 👍

[@davenonyabiz2820]

just bought one today at HF for $50 and it solved the problem i was having getting decent blade bevels and a sharp blade. Im happy. Not sure how long it will last tho, seems pretty cheap

[@massele]

I'm so happy that people like you are here on youtube, I've learned so much from your amazing contents! Thanks man, greetings from Italy😊🇮🇹🍕

[@Simplelittlelife]

Thank you so much! I really appreciate that. It’s hearing that what I’m sharing is helpful that makes it worth it. Thanks again and Happy New Year! 👍

[@chrislewellen4016]

Talent obviously transfers from one tool to others.

[@mingonmongo1]

Whether it's about homesteading or knife-making tools, I really like your 'practical' and straightforward approach... thx!

[@larshoneytoast722]

Your microphone work is on point, nothing too loud or too quiet. I know it's a little thing but its appreciated

[@Simplelittlelife]

Thank you so much! I really do appreciate you noticing. As someone who notices you probably also know that it can be difficult. For me that is by far the hardest “technical” part of making videos. I still feel like I need a lot of work on my audio but I’m glad you noticed it’s not terrible. Thank you so much and have a Happy New Year👍

[@larshoneytoast722]

@@Simplelittlelife you're very welcome and a happy new year to you too!

[@bfnurgf1]

I've made about 50 knives with a 1x30. It works if you take your time. I glued a piece of hardened steel to the platen and that really helped. That being said I've got a 2x72 being delivered in a couple of days and I'm pumped for the upgrade

[@joeldube3887]

I started with a 1x30 about 6 months ago and started watching your videos! Just finished building my 2x72! The 1x30 definitely grinds but if your primary interest is chefs knives it's a challenge not to overheat and to keep the grind consistent. the 2" wide platen is a little more forgiving!

[@JT-jg8le]

Thank you for this informative comment. This helps me out alot. You should make a video.

[@jamesbarisitz4794]

When I started in the early ' 80's, this was my go to for slack belt convex edges. Micron film 1×30 belts were available at Lee Valley. 👍

[@kenbailey4732]

Your comment at the end caught my attention, because you did exactly that. You inspired me to try my hand at leather working of all things. I wanted a leather sheath for the knife you made me and I said to hell with it. If he can make this, I can make a sheath. And thus begins a long road of learning.

[@johnjude2685]

I first built a 2X72 and they are something that should be in every metal shop .After trying my 1x30 I sat it aside for 3 years. After doing some tune up as KZbin teaching I am finding as far as small to medium knives the 1x30 is great. I agree with you as usual Thanks for inspiring and teaching Sir 🙏

[@blufordbirdsong1834]

Great video man. I use a 1 x 30 and have only made 4 knives. Even with that limited equipment I have learned so much at every effort. It's easy to get equipment envy in watching masters like yourself and reading the knife builder forums. Thanks so much for showing what is possible with basic equipment in the hands of a craftsman. Love your channel man.

[@Simplelittlelife]

Thank you so much, I really appreciate the kind words. I know that feeling too. I remember using the file method and seeing folks using a grinder and being like, man, if only I had one.... But, it’s more about learning the process and not necessarily a specific way or tool to achieve the process. Always fun learning and this was very educational for me. I really didn’t think I would be able to make a decent blade on a 1X30. Even having two big grinders, this was a fun for me. Happy New Year and Cheers 👍

[@ben-me9jy]

I have been eyeing a 1x30 for a while. This gives me the confidence to get one!

[@texastriggerguard614]

I learned more about knife making in this video than any other video I’ve watched. Thanks

[@Simplelittlelife]

Thank you so much! Really appreciate that. Thanks for watching!

[@matusknives]

1x30” is great to test the waters of knife making. Especially here in Europe there are no mid-priced larger grinders. But with a 1x30” I actually made a few smaller kitchen knives. The important point is to get the best belts possible - in this size probably Norton Blaze and some 3M Gators.

[@NRiggiKnives]

Great video and confirmation that the skill of the maker is truly what matters. 1 x 30 is a great way to develop and build the skills. I used the HF 1x30 for over a year and actually made a bevel jig that I now sell specifically for it. Glad you did this video to again reinforce to beginners to just get into Knife making-even with a limited budget.

[@Simplelittlelife]

Thank you so much. That’s great your offering a specific jig for the 1X30. I was absolutely shocked at how well it worked. I seriously thought I wouldn’t get anything that resemble a knife but just like that, pretty much the same thing as using a bigger grinder. 👍

[@egbluesuede1220]

Great vid, made me a new subscriber. I recently started making knives using a 1 x 30 from Harbor Freight. Some things I've learned so far. 1) Power is good enough for smaller knives. I tried getting a full flat grind on a 1.5" knife and it's not quite strong enough to get there. The wider the bevel and more steel it has to remove, and the lack of power is apparent. 2) you will go through a ton of belts, but have better results from getting decent ceramic shredder belts rather than a 10 pack of the cheap ones. 3) Tool quality can vary. Looks like yours was good out of the box, but I ended up modifying my harbor freight, and ultimately making a new platen to get even plunge lines. The original was drilled off center quite badly and no amount of tracking would center the belt and my grinds wouldn't match on both sides of the knife until I threw it away and made a new one. Totally agree with your suggestion. I want to make more knives on it to improve MY skill as a grinder, and try some different things. When I get better, and know I want to continue with the hobby, then it will be worth investing in a 2 x 72. In the meantime, I can make a ton of mistakes and learn a lot with a $50USD 1 x 30.

[@Simplelittlelife]

Right on. Those are some very good points. I was thinking that there probably are a good portion of super cheap 1X30s that have issues. I think the ones from princess auto are a step up from Harbour Freight but they’re a little more expensive too. I really like your attitude toward making knives and I think you’re on the right track. Won’t be long before you’re making amazing blades whether it be on a 2X72 or not. Keep it up 👍

[@Fhokerfhaze]

thanks bud! i’m planning to buy a 2x72. This video made me change my mind. Pls continue to share some useful advice for begginers like us

[@Simplelittlelife]

Glad this helped and I certainly will do 👍

[@philmcglen6194]

Yes a 1x30 is great to start! I bought one for £50 And have made loads of knives with mine. They are brilliant. I hope to upgrade one day when I start making bigger blades but until then these are worth it!

[@motorteeth]

Heeeyyyy... so nice to see a Canadian making these kind of videos. You have my subscription.

[@Simplelittlelife]

Woohoo!! Thank you so much! I really do appreciate that. Happy New Year to you my fellow countryman 👍

[@Gamer-ox6tg]

You know, most professional knife makers say no way will it work or yea but it's trash or something negative. You actually made an honest video and I enjoyed every minute. I can't wait to check out your other videos. Thanks for the honesty and awesome video!

[@Simplelittlelife]

Thank you so much! And, thanks for watching 👍

[@Simplelittlelife]

Thank you so much! And thank you for watching! 👍

[@jaredcahoon3731]

I watched this video when it came out and just got my 1x30 last month. Knife-making seemed beyond my dreams but it is more possible everyday. Thanks.

[@jpholecka-ps]

Thanks for this. I've started with a 1”x 30” myself. I've made a larger work rest and my own longer platen from some steel in picked up at Home Depot. Both have made for better more consistent grinding.

[@Simplelittlelife]

You’re welcome. Those both sound like they would make a huge difference. That’s cool to hear 👍

[@TheSpandexcatcher]

I know it's a small unrelated thing but I love. That you have a normal car, it seems like every time I see a video of someone get in their car they have a pimped put brand new car. It is just nice to see normal people lol

[@Simplelittlelife]

Hahahaha thanks! I have learned (after buying several brand new vehicles) how much money is lost in owning or worse even, financing a new car. I am fortunate that I can handle most repairs myself and can learn about my cars, so that allows me to drive older less expensive cars. I haven’t had a car payment for over 15 years. Frees up a lot of money for things like starting a knife making business and KZbin channel👍

[@GONZOINFIDEL]

I have dabbled with knife making up till watching this video. Thank you. I am now inspired to start seriously and with purpose.

[@Wildgoatknives]

Great video, 1x30 has gotten a lot better in recent years. Especially regarding belt selections, you can now get ceramics, trizac, surface conditioning and everything else you can use on a 2x72

[@mrtadreamer]

I replaced the original tinywork table wirh a 12" x 12" x 1/4" piece of stainless steel on my 1"x30" belt grinder, and replaced the steell back plate behind the sanding belt with a taller one. Works great for longer blades.

[@johnjude2685]

I got a 1 x 30 and didn't like it for 3 years and now learn it needs tweaking and many ways to improve them. But now starting to love it Thanks

[@brianlister6036]

Thanks for putting this out! Vancouver Islander here (former Calgary). I have been using a 1x30 now for about 10 months. Made probably 6 knives with it. Each one gets better. Do I wish I had a good 2x72, you know I do! but for now this is what is justified as an $$. I have the General 1x30 and made some mods to mine. Removed the side plate and plastic thingy you liked as it needed to be removed EACH TIME I wanted to change belts. Became a PIA so it is now gone. As you demonstrated a knife can be made with one. It is far better than doing the old file grind that is for sure. Nice too see you slumming it with us mere minor knife makers. Always like to see your builds (more would be really nice!) Happy New Year.

[@j0ser1]

Thank you for showing this. I've really wanted to try knife making. This gives me confidence to really jump in.

[@ernhrtus]

Started with a 1x30, a home depot oscillating sander and your videos. Great to see you do this.

[@dudestuffthings9991]

I live a simple little life so I have very little space to work with and I really want to start making some knives but with nowhere to store big tools a 1X30 is really my only option, I will be going with the variable speed model for a little more power and versatility, wish me luck. Thanks for the video! this is exactly the kind of stuff the new guy needs.

[@lamborn3D]

I've watched a few videos on these 1x30 grinders, and this was definitely the best one. Thank you!

[@Simplelittlelife]

Thank you so much!

[@lamborn3D]

@@Simplelittlelife you're welcome!

[@TheLiebigs]

I friggin love you Jeremy !!! You explain things better than anybody. You are just real man. You are the main reason that I got into knife making about four years ago. Thank you for everything and I hope all is well with your family. Happy new year my man.

[@sixshooter3313]

Just found your video and I enjoyed it. I have made 35 large 8 to 15 inch fixed blade bowie style knives on my 1x30 Rikon grinder along with a hand belt sander tipped upside down. It does take a little longer but I make for myself so I'm not in any hurry.

[@Simplelittlelife]

Thank you. Making for yourself is the best option in my opinion. You have the time to think, use, criticize in the privacy of your own mind, and come back again with a product that is significantly better than your previous version. Continue to enjoy it and learn. Cheers👍

[@An0raK_OGD]

...2 years later... Wow, very nice job with a 1x30. I like it... Thanks for pour realisation with this entry level machine 👍

[@bondemanden]

I started with a 1x30 "just ordered a ceramic belt from the US as it is not available so small in Denmark. Just want to say you have inspired me a lot to make knives thank you for that

[@andrewf6986]

I'm glad I have finally found a fellow Canadian to follow. It's good to hear of familiar stores were we can get supplies without using Amazon. I have wanted to try my hand at knife making and I never knew Princess Auto had supplies like that. Thanks so much for the info.

[@Simplelittlelife]

Right on! Thank you so much! Yeah they’re brining in all sorts of stuff even tongs and blade specific tongs. I’m stoked to see all the knife making and forging stuff they are bringing in. 👍

[@markoroganovic5007]

People don't understand that skill doesn't come boxed in with the tools.. you first aquire skill, do that you can buy tools with it!! good job by the way :D

[@OldJoe212]

I just made 2 chef's and 2 paring knives for my sons for Christmas and I used a Harbor Freight 1x30. I used O1. Also a couple of small ones out of a 7 1/2" SkilSaw blade. Just take your time.

[@ReadyUpGo]

Thank you for this fine exploration of a machine compromise for use in knife making. I have an old Delta 1x30 that I’ve spent around $150 on upgrading and a new RIKON 1x30 with variable speed and the 6” disc. I made larger tables and new platens for both; glass on the Delta. My space is very limited and the funding arguably used on a misspent dotage, but that hasn’t slowed me down yet, by gum. Using my diy bevel grinding jig, I find the 1” belt width easier to mess up a good bevel with than a 2” width would be. But that’s an assumptive reach for someone still working to finish his first knife at 72 who has never shared the same space with the zenith tool of knife making - the 2x72” belt grinder. I’ll keep watching for a deal on a used 2x72, but your video proves once again, that crucial axiom of craftsmanship: the highest quality results do not depend on the finest tools, but on the degree of commitment to excellence in the mind behind the hands working them. All The Best Always, Steve

[@michaelrafa100]

Great video and subtle lesson learned!! There is no substitute for skill...whatever tool set you have, learn how to use them well. It is very refreshing for those who are using entry level tooling, that a professional product can be produced...of course, with the right skill set!! Thank you!!

[@RethanHunter]

Timmies, Princess auto and snow! My kind of video! I never knew they started selling product for knife making, I will have to go check it out, thanks for sharing the video!

[@orrinbliss3751]

Good to see you making some videos again, you should make a video for the guys that repurpose steel and handle material. I have some farriers rasps I could get to you.

[@Simplelittlelife]

Thank you so much, I appreciate that. I would like to do some videos like that and plan on it soon. Just have a few more custom knives to finish up for people and then I’ll be a little more free with what projects I work on 👍

[@andrewallason4530]

Lovely job. The way I figure it, the 1x30 / 45 will heat up faster than a 2x72, but if you go steady, cool your workpiece frequently, and use quality belts it will be just fine. Being half the width, it also goes pretty well without ‘bogging down’. I started out with a Black and Decker Power File I mounted in a vice, before building my own 2x72.

[@TheBigfatmatt]

Wow! I had kinda given up on the idea due to finances, 2020 etc..... But BOOM! You have just blown my mind, all I need to buy is some oil for heat treatment! Can't wait to finish my log store so I can shift out all the birch logs and actually fit back into my 10 x 6 workspace, thanks Buddy, I have a good positive feeling now for 2021 ✌️

[@richerworldproductions]

I just started learning knife making with ABS Master Smith Wally Hayes, and I have been debating starting my own equipment collection, on a frugal budget. I was so curious about these machines...this video gave me the insight I needed! thank you!

[@redtailknives4538]

After hand filing a couple knives, I went to a 1x30 ( I already had one). It definitely works, just a little slower than a 2x72. Faster than hand filing though. I made a few modifications to mine: taller platen, bigger work table, and removed the guards to make switching belts easier. Now I use a home built 2x72. Still use the 1x30 to sharpen my knives. Thanks for the video!

[@e.lebrunet6311]

I've got the same small belt grinder but not the same grinding skills. But it does his job when you cannot afford better. The only thing I miss on it is a bigger platen on the vertical belt, I also cut out the plastic cover to allow the sparks to come out as they bild up pretty fast inside. Great video 👍

[@steveshaw1422]

Just purchased a similar machine. This video has been a huge help. Cheers!

[@joecoastie99]

I started on a 1x 30. I upgraded to a 2x72 within 2-3 months. I kept the 1x 30 and gave all of my belts to a guy who needed them. I bought a leather belt for it and now It’s my dedicated power strop.

[@Catboy-hr2qp]

Great video! As someone thats about to try my hand at making knifes it was very helpful not only to see that the 1x30 does work, but also to see the process of how a knife comes together, seems like between a 1x30, a benchvise and some files and a hacksaw I should be good to go for right under 300 usd since I already have a drill press. I plan to 3d print my own bevel jigs and your video just made me completely trash my old design i had, I never even thought about using the pin holes in the tang to bolt it to the jig, that makes the design so much easier and keeps the plastic away from belt which is good for obvious reasons

[@watercolorhomie146]

This video has got to be the most helpful one in the ether of KZbin. Thank you so much I got so much from it! I'm so excited to order me a 1×30 and give it a go! 😊 blessings friend 🙏

[@Simplelittlelife]

Thank you so much! I appreciate that. Cheers 👍

[@BeerZerkeraidean]

That's a sick grinder, I'm getting one. Princess Auto is the Shiznitt.

[@steveboone5480]

$50 Harbor Freight and believe me you can’t destroy these little things I love mine!!

[@burgknife758]

I have a 1x42 its a old very well made craftsman model .i bought good 36 grit and up belts for it .its the jewel of my little shop at the moment cheers .

[@Bridgercraft]

I got into blade making early in 2020 (I'd always wanted to and I had to do something to combat the boredom in lockdown!) Started mainly with angle grinder, hand files, etc and just had a bit of fun with it. Then, for christmas my mum bought me a 1x30 almost identical to the one you're using in this vid. It's incredible, can't fault it at all and the disc sander is a revelation, it's so useful for handle shaping. Nice to see I'm on the right track.

[@deedubz6331]

I recently got a 1x30 and it was really handy when making my last knife.

[@blakeparthenay3049]

Awesome video man, you always inspire! And you are absolutely right, just buy one. I purchased a Black Fox ONE 2x72 this year in July, and have never looked back. That being said, I started making knives last December on a 1x30 from Harbor Freight, and before that, the hand file method you did a video on. The 1x30 made about 8 beautiful knives for me before I felt I had outgrown it and was ready to take on the commitment of buying a high quality 2x72. All in all, anyone wanting to get into this, get a 1x30, an angle grinder and some sandpaper and go nuts!

[@Simplelittlelife]

That’s awesome to hear! Thank you. And you’re absolutely right. Just get some stuff and start. That’s the hardest part of it all 😆👍

[@JT-jg8le]

Sir can you please tell me why you had to upgrade? I want to buy the right one, but I can't find a single reason why the 2x72 is better. People just say they had to upgrade, but don't give the reason, so I'm starting to think it's more of a trend than a real use case.

[@blakeparthenay3049]

@@JT-jg8le I felt compelled to upgrade because I wanted to make nicer knives, more knives, and wanted to do it faster. Upgrading to a 2x72 from a 1x30 unlocks new attachments (Surface grinders, small wheels, contact wheels, work rest, platens, etc). It also unlocks much higher end abrasives to improve my work as well. If you want to make one knife a year, stick to a 1x30 I guess. At that rate you simply aren't making enough knives and getting enough practice in to make any meaningful improvements to your skill anyway, you just feel like making a knife every once in a while as a project--and that is totally fine! My 2x72 has allowed this once-hobby to become a successful side hustle and has paid for itself multiple times.

[@bumstudios8817]

I’m just blown away with the fact you have a retail store that has knife making supplies

[@Simplelittlelife]

Pretty sweet hey👍

[@6Sally5]

Just found your channel and as a brand new knifemaker, I appreciate your making this video because the 1x30 is the only grinder I have…and bought that at a pawn shop. I also got an incidental nugget from your vid…the home made grinding jig! I’ll be making one of those. Subscribed!

[@Simplelittlelife]

Right on! Thank you so much and I'm glad you've found some of this info useful. I hope you have a great time with knife making. It can be frustration at times but it's way more satisfaction than anything. Cheers👍

[@danreal52]

Just bought a 1x30 for my wood shop. Ran into your video, I guess I’m making a knife soon👍🏼

[@biglumpy12]

Nicely done! Nice to show what can be done with what you can afford. I made 6 knives on my 1x30 and the only reason I got my 1x42 is because it was given to me. Thanks for the video.

[@Simplelittlelife]

That’s cool to hear. And, pretty sweet gift! You’re welcome and I thank you for watching. I really appreciate it 👍

[@coatizao1]

I use a 1x30 as a hobbiest maker. It gets the job done. Looking forward to building my 2x72 soon.

[@Simplelittlelife]

Right on! Have you checked out Brian House’s stuff on grinders? He has put a lot of great info on making grinders and sells plans and kits for them too. Might be worth looking into if you haven’t yet housework.us/ Cheers 👍

[@shaggy_e210]

I wish hardware stores were this dope in the states!!! Edit: I need one of those 1x30's

[@rickyribs8032]

I agree I am in the UK would be fairly difficult to get that tool off of the shelf. And as for knifemaking supplies good luck with that as rare as rocking horse shit. That having been said deliveries from the Internet are normally delivered fairly quickly.👍

[@BadPandaWoodworks]

Princess Auto is Canadian Harbor Freight......

[@johnrichy2k6]

@@rickyribs8032 axminister and Machine mart stock nice little 1x30s amongst all sorts of other little bits of tools

[@reidwollen1730]

I have a harbor freight 1x30 and this video gives me a lot more confidence in it. Ive only made a couple knifes but its still really fun!

[@Lmr6973]

"Son it's not in the instrument it's in the musician". Heard this years ago when I saw a man play some of the best sounding music on a cheap old beat up Sears guitar. You can't buy experience.

[@Simplelittlelife]

Very well said. 👍

[@aitf99]

Exactly !! A quality product has little to do with the tools. The maker or mechanic has everything to do with the final product ! Its almost all skill and craftsmanship. I've got a 1x30 and I can't make anything close to this. Jeremy has FANTASTIC SKILLS !...for sure he's one of the best unknown knifemakers out there !! All the better that he's a fellow Albertan !

[@danbell3827]

Well said, but there is also a flip side to that. A good tool won't make you an expert, experience will. However, even the best expert can be handicapped by poor quality tools. If your tools simply can't do the job you are trying to do, no amount of practice will yield the results you want. Often this leads people to give up, thinking they will never improve, when they were set up to fail. You don't need top of the line toys to learn, but you do need something reasonably effective. You also need to know the limits of your tools, and be able to tell what is your skills needing improvement vs what is the tools fault. I have to say, though, It's nice to know these sanders are actually usable, as I'm looking into buying one similar for a starter. I eventually want to build a 2x72, but don't have the space for it atm. This gives me a good, inexpensive option in the meantime, that will do double duty in the woodshop.

[@aitf99]

@@danbell3827 i think it never hurts to have good tools. They do increase your chances of success. I have 2 - 1x30s. 1 is a delta and it's very similar to a Central Machinery one from Harbour Frieght. I do have a couple of minor complaints with it but overall it's OK. My other one is a Mastercraft from Canadian Tire (what can I say I'm Canadian)....and its nothing short of horrible. Belt moves all over the place, doesn't track straight etc...good luck making a decent knife on it.

[@ernestoneill8321]

practice,practice,practice a very good pool player can beat anyone with the house pool stick or a tree branch thats the differace between a pro and an amature

[@williamemerson1799]

Nice job on the knife. My Delta 1x30 is probably around 25, 30 yrs old, give or take, and it is without a doubt one of the handiest pieces of small equipment I own. It gets used mostly for sharpening these days, cuz I'm a lazy slug, but in the past has been used for grinding metal and truing miter cuts on trim work. Plus there are some variety packs of belts that go from around 60 grit up to 1500-2000, with leather belts available for stropping.

[@jackanderson1123]

After using a file jig, I started out on a 1 x 30 belt sander and old circular saw blades, mainly because I couldn't afford a 2 x 72. And let me just say, of course you can make great knives with the 1 x 30 sander. Only thing I'll add is I found using P40 belts for the initial bevel grind far better than using a smaller grit. Great video mate!

[@Johnnybananass-_]

Thanks so much for this video, Im just dabbling in converting old antique hand shears into kitchen knifes in my season downtime ( im a band roadie ) and I dont have a lot of cash to spend on tools im not making money back on and this was in my sights so now I think ill take the plunge .

[@seeingthepattern]

Been humming and haaing about getting one ... now I know I definitely will. Great video.

[@Robpearceknives]

I’ve been using a 1x30 for about a year and a half now for knife making. I’ve modified the rest and platten. There is a decent selection of belt options too. I buy ceramic belts from Red Label, who even has scotch bright belts for them. I use sanding drum bits in my drill press as a makeshift “small wheel attachment”. I am getting ready to build a 2x72 from our old treadmill, but have been happy with the 1x30. I agree that it’s the perfect grinder to start on without breaking the bank. Thank you for another great video Jeremy and Happy New Year!

[@copious187]

PA is my the greatest store ever. And that's the 1x30 I got to start making knives a couple years back. I found a lot of uses for the belt grinder outside of knives too. Overall I really like the 1x30 too, but I did have to make a larger platen. That's so exciting that PA is stocking handle material. Also, unless I'm mistaken their website says their cold rolled steel bar stock is 1080 ;) I know where I'm going tomorrow. Hi from Calgary, btw.

[@abowhand]

Must be nice to have an $85 grinder in your shop! Thanks for this video, very informative.

[@destroyedsevenfold]

Awesome video. Exactly what a beginner needs to see.

[@brenthawkins204]

I bought a 1x30 and still prefer it over my 1.5 and 2" machines. I can go slower and mess up less. The bigger machines just go too fast for me. They are better at hogging without bogging but i use a band saw so not much hoggin. Belts are cheap and can use a new one for every blade if needed. Slow and low that is the tempo.

[@gammon1183]

I occasionally make knives for friends and I mage my own bush knife which has been my friend for years. I use a 1x30 and use it for other tasks so yes it's great . If I was making knives for a living for sure I'd get something a bit more but I'm happy .

[@MrMsal1984]

I just got a wen 1x30 that is nearly identical to this one for Christmas. I am working on my first knife now and it is going great so far. This video is certainly a confidence boost. I think it would be a good idea to do a video on accessories to add to this like the bevel jig to step up the value for a starter.

[@Simplelittlelife]

That’s so cool! That’s good to hear. So fun isn’t it? That’s for that input, that is a great idea. 👍

[@itsmeagain1018]

i purchased one five yrs ago i wasn't happy with it so i returned it....i emailed the company to.inform them i was doing so.....i never checked the return email until a week later.. telling me to keep it in good faith...............im gutted to this day..it was a very decent bit of kit but i wanted a 2x72 after discovering yt vids...this vid has made me fill up again....

[@JT-jg8le]

Uh what. This is a really weird comment.

[@ohforgodsake8486]

Excellent. I've literally been looking at a mini belt and my mind is made up. Cheers 👍

[@Simplelittlelife]

Right on! They are great little tools to get you going👍

[@BamaDanKnives]

Thx makes me feel better about my delta 1x30 I have used the last 4 years.

[@Simplelittlelife]

Right on. Yeah it’s amazing what these things can do. It was a real eye opener for me. 👍

[@DDH-x5z]

Love your channel. I’m a newbie. Just getting ready to purchase some tools. Appreciate your insights and advice. 🇨🇦🇺🇸

[@Simplelittlelife]

Thank you so much! I appreciate that. I hope your journey is an enjoyable and rewarding one. Cheers👍

[@WastelandForge]

I'm real jealous that you've got a big box store that sells knife supplies!! I'm stoked to see you doing more videos! I'm gonna be bending your ear more in the new year about youtube. Hopefully we can help each stay on track. This is James Fleming btw

[@hojjatahangarikiasari7670]

I started with files and angle grinder. Then I bought a used 1x30 for $40 and it was a whole different world for me. I can imagine the time I get a 2x72 for myself 😃 Happy new year btw. Wish you get more business related sponsors

[@moh-he1ri]

This is the video that worth waiting

[@Simplelittlelife]

Thank you! 🙏👍

[@castledomeknives9395]

For those of you new to the 1x 30, combat abrasive offers some awesome 1x 30 belts in ceramic plus a great assortment/ starter packs I use use the 24 grit ceramic Shredders to hog of material quickly

[@ajmckay2]

Great idea for a video! I'm not particularly surprised that you can get decent results with a 1x30 - for some reason they're not considered "real tools" by many. The only downsides I can think of is that the belt selection is probably more limited and it will chew through belts quicker (proportional to the surface area). I am planning to use mine to make a blade, though I also want to learn to hand file as well.

[@Simplelittlelife]

Thank you! Yeah I was really surprised by how well this worked. There are quite a few abrasive companies now that are making belts for the 1X30. If you check out TruGrit.com they have a really nice selection of 1X30. Ceramic, diamond film, Trizact, even scotchbrite and leather belts in 1X30. Those are some pretty sweet options. 👍

[@trplankowner3323]

Smart of Princess Auto to sponsor this video. A small investment in tools and supplies from a store many Canadians drive by every day or at least isn't far away from them and the average handy person can make their own versions of the knives they use in their life. Also, their homemade knives can look and work just as well as what they've been buying in stores.

[@johnjude2685]

Beginning with knives. Myself finding the 1 x30 biggest advantage over my 2X72 is when I sanding of wood and plastic I can easily take outside and use and clean and return to see a much cleaner garage.

[@gmnelli]

Love this!! Thank you!!! I’ve been looking at a 1x30 thinking it could get me going and now I KNOW it can. Awesome!

[@daringlisson9353]

Do it man! I bought mine at Harbor Freight and I’m slowly finishing two knives I started a year ago. It’s great when using ceramic belts!!

[@LIKES2CRAWL]

@@daringlisson9353 if you don’t mind me asking, where did you get ceramic belts for the 1x30?

[@Simplelittlelife]

Right on! Yeah they are pretty capable. I know quite a few places are starting to sell decent belts for these and I’ve seen TruGrit.com has a lot of great options including ceramics, trizact, diamond film, leather and even scotchbrite belts in 1X30. I could imagine that would bring this things up a notch or two👍

[@polisheverything1970]

Love that you did this video showing a build with a 1x30, here in the UK the 4x27 is considerably cheaper ($80) than a 1x30 (cheapest one is about $120), would you think that the 4x27 would be a good enough alternative to dip my toes so to speak?

[@PhoenixIronworksNS]

I have a rikon 1x30 that I use for most of my knives and it works great. I took off the side plastic piece and the top guard because of obvious reasons, but it works for sure. Great video

[@daringlisson9353]

I have a 1x30 that I bought strictly for knife making. It’s what I could afford, but it does a great job. Plus when using 36 grit ceramic belts, makes quick work of setting the profile. Then 60, 80 and 120 ceramic.

[@Simplelittlelife]

Right on. Yeah I can’t believe how well this worked. I was shocked! And the fact that a lot of the abrasive companies are starting to make more belt available in 1X30 (like trizact, scotchbrite, etc...) adds so much versatility to these little grinders. One company I know has a great selection of 1X30 is TruGrit.com 👍

[@vigilantknives3085]

Yep I started with a 1x30 and made knives for over a year with one. Definitely doable, but to anyone just starting I would recommend getting a 2x42 for nearly the same price and works a lot better overall.

[@woofy435]

I started with a 1x30” yard sale belt sander now I have a 6”x48” belt sander and I love the experience that I’ve learned with them! I always love the content hope you have a better 2021 than this year brother!

[@baroneblades5386]

Yes I use a 2x42 now. I started with a 1 x 30. I added a longer table. I still use it for profiling and handles. I have 2 set up with different grits.