Tolly,
I have never heard of those and never used them. The prices look good. But, I can't vouch for the quality.
If you aren't using them much, it might be a good option for you.
But, if you plan to get a lot of use out of the, like MRpink said, I have heard many hard-core users of different belts swear that some more expensive belts pay for themselves easily in the long run. And in the long run cheap belts aren't always so cheap.
I would post this question on one of the "Makers" threads on Bladeforums or Knifeforums and see if one of the more knowledgeable makers can chime in for you. They are more likely to have shopped around, discussedn and/or have experimented with more sources of belts.
I think Vic and Brian A are probably the most knowledgable here that I see about using belt grinders and belts. I have researched a bunch, but still stuck using my cheapo delta 30". ... Hmmmm ... that said, I see you mention 30" and 42" (?????)... Do you have a 30" or 42"?????
If you have a 30" and set on keeping your 30" for just casual use and maybe you are just looking for a cheaper sources to get a variety for casual use (????), then they might be worth at least trying. The prices are cheap. Especially the leather. But, that leather does look thin.
I read "ALL" the time to not leave your leather belts on your machine and/or under any tension as the stretch easily. An over-stretched leather belt will become worthless very quickly.
But, if you have a 30" and are looking to use your belt sander a lot more, I would recommend considering upgrading to a 42" before spending much money on 30" belts. I have been holding off on investing in a lot of worthy belts as I still have a 30" and really want to upgrade befor buying a lot of belts. The Delta SA180 42" seems to be one of the better bangs for the buck.
The following post is info I posted for Vic just yesterday:
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I am sorry to hear you are having a bad experience with it Vic.
I was a little concerned about the reverse spin direction. Like you said, that might be O.K. for little chisel tips were all that is being done is fine polishing. But, for belt grinding.... ?????
If it is as bad as you say it is, I would insist on a refund (based on all the shortcomings you listed) and see if they will take it back. Or sell it on ebay or some woodworking forum (????)
At least with the Delta 42" you can use all of the 42" belts you just bought.
I can vouch for the Delta 1"x42". I think it is WAY nicer than my Delta 1"x30" and I assume my 1"x30" Delta is comparable to the Harbor Freight (????).
The larger Delta also wouldn't require much adaption and change to your accustomed style of use. As it is just a bigger, smoother running, better designed version of a similar set-up.
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Vic,
I just checked Amazon.com and they now have the Delta SA180 down to $89.99 with FREE "Super Saving Shipping".
*** Make SURE you add the one to your basket with FREE Super Saving Shipping. There is one on there for $89.99 + $36.99 shipping (from Hardware Sales Inc.)
**** See the 2nd one down on the right at the following link (*** NOT the top right one!)
Delta 42" SA180 Belt Sander @ Amazon That sander was a good deal at $125.00 or more a few months ago. $89.99 is a STEAL!!!
It might be on close-out or something (????)..... If I had the money, I would buy one right now. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/paperbag.gif" alt="" />
Good luck. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" />
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Vic ordered one yesterday and said you have to open up an Amazon account to get the free shipping. To save $36.99 in shipping, it might be worth it.
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