Thread: in search of a good buffer

well i have found out that one of the tools im going to need is a good buffer, well after watching and undering alot about this i come to the well to see if anyone can throw anything in the ring for this. the buffer that i was seriously looking at was this one from caswell. any thoughts on this

Caswell Inc. - 3/4HP Buffing Machines

please tell me what you all think i was looking at the 1100 rpm. would this be to slow

I have this buffer and it is a monster...... I liked it a lot but it started sticking when I hit the on button and the wheels wouldn't turn unless I manually whirled them. So.....I ended up picking up the Baldor 3/4 at 1800 rpm. It runs a lot smoother and works very well too. I guess I could look into fixing the Caswell.........

Lynn

again lynn your taste is well out of my range. but i really do like the way it looks lol. i just dont know if i could drop that change of that is all.

Originally Posted by jballs918

again lynn your taste is well out of my range. but i really do like the way it looks lol. i just dont know if i could drop that change of that is all.

The JET buffers are another option that might be worth checking out. I know several people who have them and they have abused the heck out of them but the buffers just keep on keeping on. They have a 1725rpm and a 3450rpm model 10". Here's a link Jet 577110 JSB-10L 1 HP 1725 RPM Buffer/Sander 10"

WARNING: I don't know if you have very much experience running a buffer or not, but PLEASE BE CAREFUL when working with the buffer. Wear a face shield and any other job appropriate safety gear. The buffer is the most dangerous tool in the shop!

3450 RMP's is screaming fast. If your polishing a blade, be very very careful. If the blade gets caught, it will fly like a jet.
Personally, I much prefer the slower speed machines to keep the metal from overheating.
Bill W

This works pretty well.....

My advise.

Save up your money and get yourself a Baldor or any other well known reputable brand.

I've had 2 of those Chinese Caswell buffers and both had issues and were returned. Big PITA as they weight over 50 pound.

Whatever you do 1/2 HP would be the min. I would choose.

Yes, 1100 is to slow for steel. 1700/1800 or 3400/3600 is recommended. I have and use both.

northern tools.com has 3/4 buffers that wont break you , i have one and it works fine.

I use a Sears variable speed grinder for buffing. I think it runs about 1500 RPMs which is a bit fast, but works if you're careful. I bought it for sharpening chisels and gouges, so for polishing razors it should work fine. It's going for about $90.

The Baldor is the standard of the industry. My gunsmith has used the same long shaft one for 40 years. The bearings and armature run very smooth. It is much nicer to use than my Dremel and drill press.