Cliff Fendley
Well-Known Member
The other thread on belt seems got me wondering why knifemakers all run 72 inch belts.
I buy the 132 for less per inch than the 72, I'm told the reason is the seem is a larger part of the cost. Besides that the 132 belts seem to last probably three times longer even though they are less than half the length and the run cooler (probably why they last longer).
When I was talking with a Bader rep a while back about how much better I liked running the big machines and how much better the belts last I was told the 132 inch length is about the most cost effective length between cost of making a belt and how the abrasives last and that is why their industrial machines run that length. I believe that because when space isn't an issue and the machines are running 24/7 in a factory you can bet they are going to run the most cost effective thing.
I understand to buy a industrial machine is high dollar but for all the knifemakers that build their own machines it would cost no more to run a larger belt.
Is it mostly a belt availability, space, or what? I realize the 72 belts are more available in a good selection of abrasives in small quantity because that is what is popular so that's what the knife suppliers are carrying. The factories buy the 132 so many of them are only sold in larger quantities.
I only know of myself, Gil Hibben, and one other knifemaker that runs the 132 belts.
I buy the 132 for less per inch than the 72, I'm told the reason is the seem is a larger part of the cost. Besides that the 132 belts seem to last probably three times longer even though they are less than half the length and the run cooler (probably why they last longer).
When I was talking with a Bader rep a while back about how much better I liked running the big machines and how much better the belts last I was told the 132 inch length is about the most cost effective length between cost of making a belt and how the abrasives last and that is why their industrial machines run that length. I believe that because when space isn't an issue and the machines are running 24/7 in a factory you can bet they are going to run the most cost effective thing.
I understand to buy a industrial machine is high dollar but for all the knifemakers that build their own machines it would cost no more to run a larger belt.
Is it mostly a belt availability, space, or what? I realize the 72 belts are more available in a good selection of abrasives in small quantity because that is what is popular so that's what the knife suppliers are carrying. The factories buy the 132 so many of them are only sold in larger quantities.
I only know of myself, Gil Hibben, and one other knifemaker that runs the 132 belts.