Thread: First Buffer

I have a bench grinder but I want a dedicated buffer for cleaning and polishing blades. Harbor Freight has one for $39.95 but I'm suspicious of the quality. Anyone out there have a Harbor Freight Buffer and how do you like it? Any other suggestion for a first buffer? Six or Eight inch pads would probably big enough for me. Thanks

That buffer only has one speed-3400- and that is too fast IMO for buffing straights. I looked at it but ended up spending more on a variable speed unit from Sears.

Ernie 1980
Thank you for the info. I thought most small electric motors were something like 1750 rpm. Man 3400 is smoking fast.

I have one and it works great. They also sell a plug in unit that varies the speed. Some argue its bad for the motor but I have not seen this and at that price oh well. I use 6 inch wheels. I am going to buy 2 more its a pain to change the wheels that often. I think sixgun has 10 of these maybe he will chime in. You can't go wrong for the price. IMO.

Hey Freddie,

A few years ago buffers were being discussed and a couple of members chimed in that the Harbor Freight were total JUNK! Well GSSIXGUN chimed say Yes they ARE! I ought to know, I own six of 'em.

You can see them here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mmwvf8xLKmk

90% of the tools I use are from Harbor Freight...

If you are using it six hours a day 6 days a week then you may want something else. For the casual user they are a good value. IMO.

Yup, they work just fine, but use 4 in wheels, many of us have used them for years without a problem.

There are some good recent buffing threads in the workshop forum. Castwells Polishing is a good source for wheels and buffing compounds.

Thanks for your help! I'm still looking around for a buffer. Thanks again, Freddie

I bought one. Its great. The pads sold at HF leave something to be desired.
As far as RPMs It will change depending on the size of the pad you use.
+1 to Cudrunner. If Glenn has 6 of them that says volumes.
Restore guys cant be coming down off the mountain and buying new buffers and stay in business.
Some factors to consider.