Best Knife Grinder: Reviews, Buying Guide, and FAQs 2023

by Daisy Dao

Only an expert tradesman knows the tremendous difference a good quality knife grinder can make. With the right knife grinder, all your tasks will become easier and trouble-free.

However, choosing the right sander that will work as the perfect knife grinder is often confusing and difficult due to the many factors that need to be taken into account.

You need not worry about choosing the right grinder anymore. We are here to talk about the best knife grinder that you can use in your work and even at your home if needed. After learning about and using the most suitable grinder for you, your work will surely be significantly improved.


What to Look for Before Buying Knife Grinder

Along with reading the knife grinder reviews, it is also important to understand which factors to look for when purchasing one. Check out our comprehensive buying guide for some tips and advice that are sure to make your purchase and usage experience much better.

The Purpose

What to Look for Before Buying Knife Grinder
What to Look for Before Buying Knife Grinder

It is vital to make sure that you select a knife makers grinder that suits the needs it is going to serve. If you are looking for a grinder that you will use for professional purposes, you will definitely need to look for something that is bigger, tougher, faster, and can handle heavy tasks smoothly.

On the other hand, when you are looking for a grinder that you will use at home or for working on small personal projects, a lighter one with a less strong engine will work pretty perfectly.

Speed Adjustability

Most grinders do not come with speed adjustability settings. But it is always wise to purchase one that has speed settings. Depending on your work, you may need to adjust speed, which will surely help you be more precise.

Tilt

You also need to make sure that the worktable or bench can be tilted. Depending on your work, you may need to tilt it a little or even a lot. A grinder that allows you to work in a tilted position is surely always a much wiser choice.

Design & Durability

No matter for which purpose you are purchasing a grinder, you cannot ignore these features. The design of the grinder must make using it easy for you. Many grinders have thoughtful design features such as rubber feet that prevent slipping, magnifiers for ensuring precision, etc., that surely make using them worthwhile.

Durability is also important as the grinder you are buying with so much care and anticipation should not break down after a few uses.

Smooth Motor & Smooth Wheels

A grinder needs to have both a smooth motor and a smooth wheel, none of which will ever get stuck or delayed. Good quality grinders pass this part with flying colors. When purchasing a grinder, always make sure you test this part.

Top 10 Best Knife Grinder Reviews

Without further ado, let us take a look at the reviews of the knife grinders from the top most manufacturers that are loved by users of all types.

1. Bucktool Combo Sander BG2600 - Link

Bucktool Combo 2
Bucktool Combo 2

This combo sander from Bucktool is a dream come true for every tradesman. Those of you who have been searching for the perfect sander that can do both sanding and knife grinding perfectly will surely love it.

Able to handle most types of materials, this combo sander boasts a belt sander and a bench grinder in one. The high-quality metal sanding belt will surely make sure you finish your work quickly without wasting too much time.

Thanks to the powerful 120v motor it is equipped with, your work will never slow down or get stuck. The belt action can be carried out both horizontally and vertically, which surely increases its usefulness by tenfold. Those who often do contour sanding will find the adjustable platen helpful.

An LED light helps you carry out all your work precisely to the last detail. ThisBucktool combo sander also allows low temperature grinding.

To make sure that all your sharpening tasks are carried out smoothly, a metal handle gives you an extra boost. After you are done using this sander, a dust port helps you clean up everything.

Pros

  1. Combo sander comes with a belt sander and a bench grinder
  2. Powerful motor that never slows down or gets stuck
  3. Adjustable platen helps with contour sanding
  4. Dust port helps with cleaning after work is done
  5. Horizontal and vertical belt action makes sander more useful

Cons

  1. Grinding wheel is not much strong
  2. Makes a lot of noise


2. Palmgren Belt And Disc Bench Finishing Machine - Link

Palmgren 2
Palmgren 2

Being a pro at grinding, this multi-purpose finishing machine from Palmgreen will surely take care of your knife grinding needs as well as help you out with several other tasks.

A combo of belt and disc finishing machine, this knife grinder runs on a powerful 240V AC motor. Thanks to this strong motor, starting the machine and getting all your work done cause no trouble at all. Its ability to work with a wide variety of materials makes it a favorite among tradesmen.

Loved and chosen for its ability to be compatible with an abrasive disc and an abrasive belt, this Palmgreen finishing machine can greatly save your money by doing several things perfectly.

Its belt can operate both horizontally and vertically, which surely makes your job a whole lot easier. As the belts can be changed quite easily, maintenance work does not take up much time at all.

If you love flexibility, you will surely love this machine's work tables that can be tilted to fit your needs. This machine is also gentle on your comfort as it can operate without vibrating. To ensure that you can clean up easily after you are done with all the work, this knife making grinder comes with a dust port.

Pros

  1. Runs on a powerful motor that creates no trouble
  2. Can be used to work with a wide variety of materials
  3. Belt can work both horizontally and vertically
  4. Machine can be tilted easily
  5. Dust port included for easy cleanup

Cons

  1. Changing belts take a lot of time


3. Aikeec Mini Belt Sander and Electric Grinder - Link

aikeec Mini Belt Sander Electric Grinder Knife Apex Edge Sharpener, DIY Multifunctional Polishing Grinding Machine with 7 Speed Power Supply & 10PCS Abrasive Belts
aikeec Mini Belt Sander Electric Grinder Knife Apex Edge Sharpener, DIY Multifunctional Polishing Grinding Machine with 7 Speed Power Supply & 10PCS Abrasive Belts

Portability and functionality are both ensured by this mini sander and grinder that you can carry literally everywhere. No matter where and when you feel like unleashing your creativity and starting your work, this best belt grinder for knife making will surely come in handy.

Do not doubt the power of this mini and portable sander at all. Thanks to its powerful motor, it can work better and get done more than many grinders out there. The belts on this knife belt grinder are smooth and highly accurate, which makes your work easier and your final products superior.

Carrying the sander everywhere is not enough unless you can adjust it however you need to. That is why the angle of the workbench and the vertical or horizontal state of the belt can be changed whenever you need. As it produces very little noise, you can use it wherever you need without creating discomfort for others.

More than anything, the lasting construction of this small but powerful machine will surprise you. Built to be strong, the double-bearings are dustproof and thus can resist getting slowed down every once in a while.

For taking care of several grinding and sanding needs, this tool is surely something that will help you for years to come.

Pros

  1. Small but powerful and can get the job done
  2. Workbench can be tilted to fit your needs
  3. The belt can be used both horizontal and vertical way
  4. Creates less noise and causes no discomfort
  5. Double bearings are strong and resist being affected by dust

Cons

  • Cannot handle very heavy sanding or grinding


4. EX ELECTRONIX EXPRESS Mini Belt Sander - Link

EX ELECTRONIX EXPRESS Mini 1 x 30 Belt Sander 3400 RPM
EX ELECTRONIX EXPRESS Mini 1 x 30 Belt Sander 3400 RPM

If you like little sanders that are easy to handle but are powerful, nonetheless, then we have another mini sander for you. This sander is packed with all the power and features you need to carry out successful tasks and can surely be called the best grinder for knife making.

Meet a sander that runs on electricity and simply needs to be plugged into an outlet to get started. As it relies on no battery, you never have to worry about recharging or a dying battery. Those who do a light sanding and grinding will love this lightweight and easy-to-use sander.

Conveniently priced and expertly designed, this sander has hundreds of positive reviews to back up its performance. This knife maker grinder is an expert at making exquisite knives without wasting too much of your time. You can also use it to sharpen your self-made or purchased knives.

Changing and attaching any blade on it is fairly easy as most replacements can be found online. Be it smooth grit or coarse; this sander can handle it like an expert. For your convenience, the worktable can be tilted up to 45 degrees.

Pros

  1. Needs to be plugged in to start using
  2. Great for light sanding, grinding, and knife making
  3. Can make beautiful knives quite quickly
  4. Most blade replacements can be found online
  5. Worktable can be tilted for your convenience

Cons

  1. If you want a belt, it has to be bought separately
  2. Cannot handle heavy sanding or grinding


5. Jet J-41002 Bench Belt and Disc Sander - Link

JET J-41002 2
JET J-41002 2

This belt and disc sander from Jet is best known and preferred by skilled tradesmen for its ability to work with strange and unusually shaped pieces perfectly. Those who love to think outside the box and create unique pieces for craft or functional purposes will surely love this sander.

A belt and a disc sander in one, its solid construction allows it to carry out several tasks without faltering. Its removable platen will surely add to your convenience and make your work better.

For working on intricate materials and making sure all the nooks and crannies are worked on perfectly, this belt and disc sander is surely the best tool ever. Its dust deflector and dust chute make cleanup a breeze.

An expert at multitasking, its coarse belt can carry out finishing and removing work perfectly. As it has rubber feet, it has very little chance of slipping or sliding whenever you are submerged in your work. Its cast-iron table can be tilted to make sure that you can finish your work however you need to.

This machine's design, functionality, and ability surely make it the best bench grinder for knife making.

Pros

  1. Good for reaching corners and working on delicate pieces
  2. Removable platen adds to the functionality
  3. Dust deflector and dust chute help with easier cleanup
  4. Rubber feet help the sander stay in place
  5. Worktable can be tilted
  6. Powerful motor that does not make a noise

Cons

  1. Changing the belt is time-consuming and troublesome
  2. Not much suitable for heavy-duty professional work


6. BUCKTOOL Bench Grinder TDS-200DS - Link

BUCKTOOL 8-Inch Dual Speed Bench Grinder Professional Power Tools Cast Iron Base TDS-200DS
BUCKTOOL 8-Inch Dual Speed Bench Grinder Professional Power Tools Cast Iron Base TDS-200DS

Bucktool surely makes some world-class sanders and grinders that take the user's experience to a whole new level. That is why we are here to review another machine from this brand that will be perfect for knife grinding.

Select the speed at which you want to get your work done with this Bucktool bench grinder that has a dual-speed induction motor. Just by flipping a switch, you can choose between 1725 RPM and 3450 RPM. Equipped with an 80 grit and 120 grit white aluminum oxide wheel, it prevents the machine from getting too hot.

The thoughtful and user-friendly design of this knife sharpening grinder will surely make you feel at ease. Its independent adjustment feature will surely come in handy while you are busy working. The base is sturdy enough to make sure the machine never shakes or wobbles while it is functioning.

Precision is what every tradesman strives for, and with this machine, achieving precise works will become almost effortless. The flange as well as the magnifier eye shield, make sure that your work is precise to the last detail every time.

To polish it every now and then and keep it in tiptop condition, a polishing wheel comes with this grinder.

Pros

  1. Dual-speed motor lets you choose between the two by just flipping a switch
  2. Machine never gets too hot
  3. Design prevents machine from getting wobbly or slippery
  4. Flange and magnifier help achieve high precision
  5. Comes with a polishing wheel

Cons

  • Replacements and accessories from other brands may not fit


7. Kalamazoo Belt Sander with Contact Wheel - Link

Kalamazoo 1SM 1
Kalamazoo 1SM 1

We love talking about underrated items that can bring great changes to your performance and amp up your work quality. This belt sander from the brand Kalamazoo is a tool that packs so many features yet costs significantly less.

Suitable for most workshops and workbenches, this knife sharpening grinder can work with a number of materials. Its 1/3rd horsepower motor makes sure that the motor runs smoothly and gets all your work done. This sander is loved for its coarse nature, which helps you carry out our finishing and sanding flawlessly.

If you want to modify this grinder and add some attachments of your choice, that can be done in a matter of minutes. This machine is compatible with all sanding and polishing belts so that you may customize this machine however you like.

Meet the sander with a worktable that can be both removed and tilted to house your needs. For your knife grinding and sanding needs, there surely is no better machine than this Kalamazoo sander. This marvelous machine is surely the best knife grinder for the money as it costs so little but works so well.

Pros

  1. Suitable for most worktables
  2. Coarse sander makes sure precise work is achieved
  3. Compatible with all sanding and polishing belts
  4. Worktable can be removed and tilted
  5. Great value for money

Cons

  1. Machine is noisier than usual
  2. Motor is not very durable


8. Grily G1015 Knife Belt Sander/Buffer - Link

Grizzly G1015 Knife Belt Sander/Buffer
Grizzly G1015 Knife Belt Sander/Buffer

From the popular brand Grizzly comes a lesser-known sander that shines with its thoughtful features and user-friendly design. This sander and buffer in one is an expert at multitasking and can surely help you create some very successful projects.

Suitable for a multitude of woodwork purposes, this sander runs on a 1-horsepower motor with 1725 RPM. The aluminum rubber roller makes sure the rubber keeps running smoothly without ever slowing down. Thanks to its cast-iron body, the machine, as a whole, is very strong and will surely last for a long time.

As we know, the belt is undoubtedly a very important part of a sander machine. The belt on this Grizzly knife grinder has a belt arm that can be tilted completely any way you want. If you do not like the belt it has and want to replace that with another one, you can do so in a matter of seconds.

The ability to use the belt arm both horizontally and vertically makes this machine a favorite among its users. Fast enough to work on any metal, this sander can surely do it all. For knife grinding and knife making, surely there is no better tool than this.

Pros

  1. Can handle several types of woodwork
  2. Roller runs smoothly
  3. Cast-iron body makes the machine strong
  4. Belt arm can be completely tilted
  5. Can be used for horizontal and vertical work
  6. Belt can be replaced quickly

Cons

  • Motor is too fast, which hurts precision


9. Jet Tools - Link

JET J-4002 1
JET J-4002 1

JET J-4002 1'x42' Belt and Disc Sander (577003)

Jet Tools make some of the finest sanders, and we could not but review another of their sanders. A belt and disc sander in one, its slightly high price is surely worth all the features and the quality it brings.

Powered by 1/3rd horsepower, this knife sharpening grinder allows you to attach an additional flex shaft for carving, sanding, and so much more. Thanks to the coarse belt it has, you will never need to use your jigsaw as the belt can take care of your jigsaw needs.

A proper platen makes much difference in the work you are going to do. As the platen on this sander is removable, it can do a number of tasks perfectly, such as grinding, sanding, or finishing. The miter gauge can tilt up to 45 degrees on both sides, which certainly makes your work a whole lot more convenient.

This combo saw from Jet makes sure that you can work this machine for a long time. Its heavy-duty steel base makes it durable, while its rubber feet ensure the machine doesn't slip or gets wobbly. The very durable construction and thoughtful design of this combo sander make the machine a very wise investment.

Pros

  1. Extra flex shaft can be installed
  2. Is an expert at jigsaw work
  3. Platen is removable and makes a multitude of work easier
  4. Miter gauge can be tilted on two sides
  5. Heavy-duty slip-free construction and design

Cons

  • Customer service is not satisfactory


10. Grily Industrial H8192 - Link

Grizzly Industrial H8192 - 1
Grizzly Industrial H8192 - 1

Grizzly Industrial is known for the tough and durable electric tools they make, and this combo sander is no different. All the right features and proper design make it such a crowd-favorite item.

Get the best of both worlds in this Grizzly sander unit that combines a long belt sander and a disc sander. The 1/3 horsepower motor can surely work like a pro and get all your work done smoothly. As this sander is portable, you can use it however and wherever you need to.

A pro at sanding and grinding, this Grizzly sander is said to be best for intricate works and contour sanding. Contour sanding becomes easier due to the roller guard and removable blade. The ability to tilt the sander tables makes for one adaptable sander that is ready to take on anything you throw at it.

This marvelous Grizzly knife grinder also takes the matter of your safety seriously. A toggle safety switch with a removable key makes sure unwanted events and accidents are prevented as much as possible.

With the help of two dust ports, cleaning up after work becomes very easy. Its versatility, easy use, and combining of two sanders in one surely make it the best knife grinder for beginners.

Pros

  1. Powerful motor that gets all the work done
  2. Two sanders in one - a long belt sander and a disc sander
  3. Can be tilted to fit needs and situations
  4. Advanced safety standards are in place
  5. Two dust ports help in easy cleanup

Cons

  • Tends to get hot quickly


Final Words for Knife Grinder Buyers

When it comes to knife grinding, surely choosing the right knife grinder is an extremely important task. After reading our reviews for the best knife grinder, we hope you have learned enough to make sure you purchase a machine that will serve you nicely for a long time and make sure all your work is carried out perfectly.

Buy on Walmart

Bucktool Combo 2" x 42" Belt Sander 6" Bench Grinder, Knife Sharpener with Large Work - Walmart Link

RIKON Power Tools 50-151 Belt with 5" Disc Sander, 1" x 30", Blue - Walmart Link

Shop Fox W1843 Knife Belt Sander/Buffer - Walmart Link

Porter-Cable PCB420SA Belt with 8" Disc Bench Sander, 4" x 36" - Walmart Link

JET J-4002 1"x42" Belt and Disc Sander (577003) - Walmart Link

Norse BDSG2x6 9681119 Belt Disc Sander Grinder - Walmart Link

Kalamazoo Industries 2FSM 2" X 48" Abrasive Belt Sander W/ Motor - Walmart Link

Happybuy 2Hp Belt Grinder Variable Speed 2 X 82inch Belt Disc Sander with 3 Grinding - Walmart Link

INTBUYING 220V 2Hp Variable Speed 2X72 inch Belt Grinder Belt Sander Knife Grinder - Walmart Link

EX ELECTRONIX EXPRESS Mini 1 x 30 Belt Sander 3400 RPM - Walmart Link

DIYAREA Electric Belt Sander,Multifunctional Heavy Duty Belt Machine with 2 x 82 Inches - Walmart Link

Shop Fox W1838 Combo 2" Belt Sander 6" Disc Sander - Walmart Link

3 in 1 Multifunctional Electric Belt Sander with 2 x 82 Inches Polishing Grinding Belt, - Walmart Link

Kalamazoo 1SM 1" Belt Sander, 32 lbs, 1725 RPM, 1/3 HP Motor, 1" x 42" Belt, 4" Contact - Walmart Link

Grizzly Industrial H8192-1" x 42" Belt / 8" Disc Combo Sander - Walmart Link

Buy on eBay

Bucktool Combo 2" x 42" Belt Sander 6" Bench Grinder, Knife Sharpener with Large Work - eBay Link

RIKON Power Tools 50-151 Belt with 5" Disc Sander, 1" x 30", Blue - eBay Link

Shop Fox W1843 Knife Belt Sander/Buffer - eBay Link

Porter-Cable PCB420SA Belt with 8" Disc Bench Sander, 4" x 36" - eBay Link

JET J-4002 1"x42" Belt and Disc Sander (577003) - eBay Link

Norse BDSG2x6 9681119 Belt Disc Sander Grinder - eBay Link

Kalamazoo Industries 2FSM 2" X 48" Abrasive Belt Sander W/ Motor - eBay Link

Happybuy 2Hp Belt Grinder Variable Speed 2 X 82inch Belt Disc Sander with 3 Grinding - eBay Link

INTBUYING 220V 2Hp Variable Speed 2X72 inch Belt Grinder Belt Sander Knife Grinder - eBay Link

EX ELECTRONIX EXPRESS Mini 1 x 30 Belt Sander 3400 RPM - eBay Link

DIYAREA Electric Belt Sander,Multifunctional Heavy Duty Belt Machine with 2 x 82 Inches - eBay Link

Shop Fox W1838 Combo 2" Belt Sander 6" Disc Sander - eBay Link

3 in 1 Multifunctional Electric Belt Sander with 2 x 82 Inches Polishing Grinding Belt, - eBay Link

Kalamazoo 1SM 1" Belt Sander, 32 lbs, 1725 RPM, 1/3 HP Motor, 1" x 42" Belt, 4" Contact - eBay Link

Grizzly Industrial H8192-1" x 42" Belt / 8" Disc Combo Sander - eBay Link

About Daisy Dao

Daisy grew up on the beautiful Honolulu island where she often found herself spending most of her day enjoying the ocean scent in sea waves. As such, Daisy came to appreciate the art of cooking seafood. She has experimented with baking, roasting, broiling, poaching, grilling (and every other cooking technique you can think of); and with all kinds of spices too. Now she is ready to present her experience: the art of cooking healthy food without any pre-packaged ingredients; food product recommendations for people who need a bit more guidance on what goes into their bodies; how to maintain an active lifestyle without having to give up your favorite foods!


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