Grinder Question

[Justin Leiwig]

So I got an email last night that harbor freight has their wet/dry grinder on sale for half price. It is this model:

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/cta...emnumber=95236 (http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=95236)

I have a super old high speed grinder that I'm not even sure would work if I put a chisel up against it. Will this work for starting out grinding lathe chisels?

I know that people bash on HF, but I'm looking for specifics from people who have this. I don't want to hear from people who have read about it because I can read the same stuff, or people who heard from a friend of a friend of a friend of a second cousin twice removed. I am only interested in hearing from those that have direct experience with this unit.

I would also appreciate if it didn't turn into a bashing contest again between those that have it and those that can afford a Tormek. The fact of the matter is that I can't afford a Tormek, and probably would never pay that much for one anyway unless my livelyhood depended on a sharp chisel.


Thanks,

Justin

[Don Orr]

I saw that in a catalog and wonder the same thing. Looks like a Tormek knock-off. I'll be intersted to see the responses myself.

[David Walser]

Justin,

I've not used the HF wet grinder (although I've handled in in the local store). I won't comment on it's quality or how it compares with the Tormek. I will offer the following suggestion:

If you are going to be using the grinder for turning tools, price in the cost of the Tormek jigs (if they are compatible, which I think they are) or the cost of a Wolverine varigrind type jig. The jigs currently available from HF for their wet grinder won't cut it for most turning tools. If you go with the varigrind type jig (which is the less expensive option), consider the Tru-Grind jig from Woodcut. I like it better than the varigrind and it is competitive in price. Here's a link: http://www.woodturnerscatalog.com/store/Sharpening___Woodcut_System?Args=

[robert hainstock]

I havr used several HF power tools, and they all performed well. The thing with that grinder that gives me pause is the 1/4HP rating. A grinder with too little power will drive you nuts unless you have infinately more patience than I. :eek::eek::)
Bob

[David Walser]

I havr used several HF power tools, and they all performed well. The thing with that grinder that gives me pause is the 1/4HP rating. A grinder with too little power will drive you nuts unless you have infinately more patience than I. :eek::eek::)
Bob
I wouldn't worry too much about the horsepower rating. The Tormek has a 200 watt motor, which translates to about 1/4hp. Because the Tormek turns at such a slow speed (90 RPM), it's small motor is able to generate a lot of useful torque. Pushing down hard against the wheel with I wide skew, I've never stalled the machine.

[Justin Leiwig]

Justin,

I've not used the HF wet grinder (although I've handled in in the local store). I won't comment on it's quality or how it compares with the Tormek. I will offer the following suggestion:

If you are going to be using the grinder for turning tools, price in the cost of the Tormek jigs (if they are compatible, which I think they are) or the cost of a Wolverine varigrind type jig. The jigs currently available from HF for their wet grinder won't cut it for most turning tools. If you go with the varigrind type jig (which is the less expensive option), consider the Tru-Grind jig from Woodcut. I like it better than the varigrind and it is competitive in price. Here's a link: http://www.woodturnerscatalog.com/store/Sharpening___Woodcut_System?Args=

I would never even think to compare it to a Tormek, I was just curious if it gets the job done or not..that's all! :D

[Dick Strauss]

Justin,
I asked the same thing. . Here are other opinions: http://www.sawmillcreek.org/showthread.php?t=88775

FYI-Some folks have seen this grinder go on sale for $69.

[Bernie Weishapl]

My neighbor has one and he comes over and uses my Tormek. His arm on his is not square to his wheel or honing wheel. He has his arm and unit down to the local metal shop to see if they can square it up.

[David Drickhamer]

Have never used or seen the HF grinder so can't comment on it.
Grizzly also has a wet grinder. http://www.grizzly.com/products/10-Wet-Grinder-Kit/T10010
I use the Jet.
Dave