I would love to try the grinder approach but alas I'm an urban apartment dweller. I don't have space for those types of toys. As far as the burr I'm still not totally sure how that is supposed to feel. I think I have achieved that a couple of times but messed it up some how finishing it up. I wish I had someone that could give me a hands on lesson I tend to learn physical skills better that way.
The harbor freight belt sander is not very big at all.