Thread: Drill Press as Buffer?

I have a Ryobi 10" Variable speed drill press and was wondering if it would be a suitable (temporary) substitute as a buffer? I know that there are kits at Caswell and parts that can be used on a handheld drill for a buffer, so for those experienced, would a drill press work too?

One concern is that the drill press would mount the buffs horizontally rather than vertically, but I dont think that should make a whole lotta difference. Its just a different direction, really. I know that some use lathes, handheld drills, and even old motors with extended shafts as buffers, so IMO this should not be a whole lot different.

I know that there is no better solution than a good bench buffer, but as a temporary means, I think it should suffice.

Suggestions/Comments?

Originally Posted by sapito318

I have a Ryobi 10" Variable speed drill press and was wondering if it would be a suitable (temporary) substitute as a buffer? I know that there are kits at Caswell and parts that can be used on a handheld drill for a buffer, so for those experienced, would a drill press work too?

One concern is that the drill press would mount the buffs horizontally rather than vertically, but I dont think that should make a whole lotta difference. Its just a different direction, really. I know that some use lathes, handheld drills, and even old motors with extended shafts as buffers, so IMO this should not be a whole lot different.

I know that there is no better solution than a good bench buffer, but as a temporary means, I think it should suffice.

Suggestions/Comments?

For security and safeguarding any accidents I would advise you not to venture into using a wheel horizontally. Unless you want to throw your drill press on it's side. But seriously, don't. Better use a hand drill for those buffing parts you are talking about and attach the hand drill into a vise (tight and securely). Always use a wheel vertically.

Originally Posted by Maximilian

For security and safeguarding any accidents I would advise you not to venture into using a wheel horizontally. Unless you want to throw you drill press on it's side. But seriously, don't. Better use a hand drill for those buffing parts you are talking about and attach the hand drill into a vise (tight and securely).

I was thinking much the same thing

Originally Posted by Maximilian

For security and safeguarding any accidents I would advise you not to venture into using a wheel horizontally. Unless you want to throw your drill press on it's side. But seriously, don't. Better use a hand drill for those buffing parts you are talking about and attach the hand drill into a vise (tight and securely). Always use a wheel vertically.

I agree also, especially since you asked the question. Buffing machines can be very dangerous used in the manor they were designed. Flipping the wheel sideways and working a dangerous tool (a razor) on them is asking for trouble. If you are going to go with a real buffing motor some time in the future I would wait so you can be sure to have all of your parts when the time comes.

Originally Posted by Maximilian

For security and safeguarding any accidents I would advise you not to venture into using a wheel horizontally. Unless you want to throw your drill press on it's side. But seriously, don't. Better use a hand drill for those buffing parts you are talking about and attach the hand drill into a vise (tight and securely). Always use a wheel vertically.

I don't want to sound dense but could you (or someone else) clarify why using the press or any other wheel horizontally, as a buffer, would be an issue. I'm sure that the explanation is probably self explanatory but at the moment I'm just not understanding.

If you drop your workpiece ... which direction would you want it to be hurled though the air?

Down to the floor is really the safest option, so set the wheel vertically and spinning down.

Of course, wear your safety glasses.

Originally Posted by hornm

I don't want to sound dense but could you (or someone else) clarify why using the press or any other wheel horizontally, as a buffer, would be an issue. I'm sure that the explanation is probably self explanatory but at the moment I'm just not understanding.

One of the biggest issues you will have amongst others is grip. When buffing one needs to hold the razor in a very firm grip or the razor will fly out of your hands.
Unless you want to cramp yourself holding the razor,hands,wrists and/or body in a very awkward position as to be able and hold the razor horizontally you are still never going to be able and get the exact same firm grip you can achieve by holding the razor vertically.

Makes more sense now. I just wasn't quite grasping all the issues when I was going through the process in my head.