When I have used my platen in the past, I had serious banging and clanking from the belt everytime the belt went around. The banging and bouncing was way too rediculous to deal with, so I removed the platen and never wanted to use it again.
I had just assumed that no knifemaker would deal with that type of banging and clanking and that there was probably another way. I think I had probably been assuming that it was partially due to lower quality tools on my part. I just didn't know the solution.

I don't have much experience or knowledge about different types of belts. I have just been purchasing what has been available at Home Depot or Lowes.

I did some searching for "Bader B3" and "Belt grinder platen".

I see that a Bader B3 runs about $1600 - $2,000+ depending on attachments...... that is a very nice looking belt grinder <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/bowdown.gif" alt="" />, but I might have to hold off a while on that tool purchase <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/eek.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/sad.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/crazy.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />

...... Since I am usually only tweeking knives and not making them, I guess I will need to stick with my current belt sander for a while. I may upgrade to something some day, but I somehow I doubt it will be a Bader B3 <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/paperbag.gif" alt="" />

However, while searching, I came across this following link with a compilation of good grinding tips:

Grinder Tips


One in particular seemed to explain my problem:

"Commercial, glue bonded belts are not for cutting steel, get resin bond. Lap joint belts will rattle and thump enough to drive you crazy if finer than 60 grit, so get the butt or finger joint style for any grit finer than around 80."


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