Thread: A couple questions before attempting my own razor :D

Originally Posted by BeJay

Shooter. How was that thing for grinding? I was considering trying to hand file some blades and was trying to figure out a solution for grinding. It's obviously not ideal but I don't have money or space for a real grinder. Some of my the reviews mention the wheel wobbling a bit. Can the wheel be flattened? Is there a previous thread showing it in action?

Almost all of us who have been at this awhile agree that our first tools were inadequate compared to our present shop gear. I started on a 1x42 belt grinder and kinda miss that size for certain jobs. Excellent belt tracking controls and balanced wheels are optimum whether a production built or home built grinder. Anything else will drive you nuts.

The idea of making your first razors/blades with files is not to be taken lightly. The tools are simple and you learn a great deal about removing metal and forming the shape you want. Even if you forge steel, you will have to remove metal later, the skills are priceless. Then, only then, when you need to get the job done faster, turn to power tools. You will understand how to get the power tool to work in the direction you wanted with the files.

If you decide it's too much work with a file, you won't likely stick with it after you've invested 2,500.00 in the best belt grinder or milling machine. The loss on your investment will be much greater too. Unless you run a fab shop or the like...