Wow Knifeguy that is a great deal of useful information. Thanks to everyone for the input.

I don't know that we can exhaust any discussion on sharpening. I have been into this topic often with wood working enthusiasts who get just as deep into it. When you are trying to keep a plane blade sharp enough to make shavings that are transparent you have to know a little about sharpening. Every time the topic comes up I learn new things.

I have put together a few folding knife kits and might have some interest in a good fixed blade "kit". I am not interested in making custom knives. If I get some experience I may take on some mods to existing knives I have or will have. My main need is for sharpening/polishing knives and re grinding cruder tools like tractor mowing blades. I will also find some uses for the belt sander making some of the cabinets and tool stations I have planned, although my router will handle most of those chores.

I may have some interest in making some "cruder" cutting tools that I have not been able to find in quality steel. I made a post on the suggestions thread about a cutting tool that would be an improved version of a "Woodsmans Pal" but I am guessing it want get made here any time soon. I want something that can be used to cut small trees and brush off at the ground without chopping into dirt and dulling the blade, which I have discovered some hooked blades are good at.

I am excited to have a tool capable of removing larger quantities of metal without creating the kind of heat that will cause temper issues. I got 50 & 80 grit aluminum oxide belts with the sander and a Norton Metalite R228, which was the only other belt my local Grainger's had in stock. I am excited about leather belts and buffing compounds and did not realize there were as many options as there are.

Now I have enough information to make some relatively informed decisions about belts to try out, Thanks again for the help.

Mick