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  1. #1
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    Default Buffer vs. Grinder

    Hi guys, need some help. I had no idea a bench top buffer is different than a bench top grinder.

    I thought you just buy a grinder and change wheels. Evidently, after shopping around, that's not the case. Any tips on what brand of buffer and where to buy a half decent one. Not the top of the line but one that will do a good job for restoration work.

    I would appreciate the help.

    Thanks,
    Vince

  2. #2
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    I went to Harbor Freight and bought a cheap 1/2 or 3/4 horse, 8" or 6" grinder with the 1/2" shaft coming out at both ends. Took off everything down to the bare shaft, Threw out everything but the nuts. Bought Harbors cotton wheels 4 ea and 1/2" washers to shim the wheels. Its important to also get the plastic shaft reducers to put in the wheels so they run true. Finally the 4 different rouges, all at Harbor, Home Depot etc. I also use the set up for the 6" 3M bristle wheels 60,220,440 grit. Been using it for years. Love it.

    Ask anytime

    Joe

  3. #3
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    Default Buffer vs. Grinder

    Thanks Joe.

    Vince

  4. #4
    Knife & Razor Maker Joe Chandler's Avatar
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    Vince,
    Actually, there's not much difference. You can buy a bench grinder pretty cheap and take the guards off it (usually 3 screws) and it works great as a buffer. I've used one for years. I recently purchased a buffer from Sears, too. About the only difference is longer shafts. $99 for a 1/2 hp 3450 rpm.

  5. #5
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    Default Buffer Vs. grinder

    Thanks Joe. I saw one at Sears for $79. I toought I need more speed. Having watched Bills sd again, I don't need all that much speed.

  6. #6
    Senior Member Namdnas's Avatar
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    If you are looking to go cheap, check out the Harborfreight buffers too. No modifications needed.

    1/2 HP 6" buffer $50

    3/4 HP 8" buffer $70

    3/4 HP 5/8" arbor combo 8" grinding wheel & buffer 5/8" $110

    3/4 HP 3/4" arbor combo 8" grinding wheel & buffer $115

    You don't get the Sears warranty, but the stuff is usually decent. It's made in China, but then, so is the Sears...

    John

  7. #7
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    Default Buffer Vs. Grinder

    Thanks for all the help. I can always count on you guys. At least I know what the heck I'm looking for now. Got my eye on something on Ebay.

    Now I just can't beleive what the 6 inch 3M radial bristle brushes go for.

    And, all I wanted was a good shave. Here we go again. This ain't bad though. It's when I start building the addition to the house to hold all of this stuff that's going to hurt.

    Vince

  8. #8
      Lynn's Avatar
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    I have a belt sander coming which is really great for the grinding.......wondering about a buffer, especially for a large flap wheel, but then theres the drill press and table radial saw if I can find a nice one........never ending story of truth justice and the american straight razor.......hahahahahaha

    Lynn

  9. #9
    Knife & Razor Maker Joe Chandler's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by adjustme69 View Post
    I have a belt sander coming which is really great for the grinding.......wondering about a buffer, especially for a large flap wheel, but then theres the drill press and table radial saw if I can find a nice one........never ending story of truth justice and the american straight razor.......hahahahahaha

    Lynn
    It's freaky to discover how much stuff you "need", ain't it? I just popped for a new band saw suitable for resawing. (BTW, I'll have some scale blanks for sale soon for anyone interested...hey I gotta pay for the saw somehow. )

    P.S. Lynn, did you go for the KMG, or stick with the Bader?

  10. #10
      Lynn's Avatar
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    Bader,

    By the time I priced out the wheels I wanted, it all came out in the wash......

    This should be fun.....

    Lynn

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