MRpink,
The SA180 does cost more, but that really is a steal of a price.
The main problem with having a cheaper tool like a HF or Delta 30" is then you keep having a harder time justifying the better tool that you really want and can use for SO many other things. You tend to feel guilty for replacing your $40 tool that will be made worthless and obsolete.
It is not just a tool for sharpening and profiling knives. It is also VERY handy with many other metalworking and woodworking projects.
I sharpen lawn tools like shoves, hoes, axes, machetes, picks, chisels, fix flathead screwdrivers, and MANY other tools.
I have a LOT of woodworking tools. My cousin and I were talking one day jokingly ribbing each other and half-bragging about our tool collections. I don't think I will ever forget his line: "I have tools to MAKE tools". I felt that was a pretty good way to TRUMP most all tools.
Everybody brags about how handy the Dremel is. And true, it is a very handy and versatile tool. I use mine a LOT. But, with all the Dremel's fancy tips (I must have 60 - 75 or so), I find I can do a LOT more with my belt sander. Once you have it and learn how to use it, if you are into "Projects", you will find MANY ways to use it.
I find my belt sander almost as handy as my cordless drill. A decent Dewalt 12volt cordless drill these days sells for about $140 - $160.
Ask ANY contractor or tradesman. Good tools are worth the extra money. And good tools, if properly maintained can last MANY years. I have had my Dewalt for probably 15 years with VERY heavy use. I had to buy a set of replacement batteries once. Otherwise, the tool works like a champ.
(for the record, I love Bosch tools. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" /> ) Dewalt for some things though. Some brands are notably good for certain items....
**** Ridgid is a tool brand (I think now owned by Home Depot). I have a couple of Ridgid tools that have been EXCELLENT. But, none of their cordless tools yet. I haven't needed to replace the current cordless tools I have since Ridgid got into cordless tools. But, *** It is my understanding that Ridgid as a LIFETIME battery replacement warranty. For cordless tools, that is HUGE!!!!!!!!!!! Plus, Ridgid's basic warranty is very good anyway. I have a Ridgid portable table saw - similar to this, but mine is an older earlier model:
Ridgid saw I was using the HECK out of the saw on a few renovation projects. The crank that raises and lowers the saw blade was getting sticky and hard to crank (in hindsite, it probably just needed cleaning and lube). But, I had the saw and a truck at the time at a job-site that was about 1/2 mile from Home Depot. I took the saw in to them intending to ask their opinion on the best way to get it smooth again. I figured I would need to buy some crank part or something that I may have worn out. Normally, I would have done more inspecting and tinkering, but I just took it in. I didn't get past explaining that it was sticking and they were already telling me they had a replacement in stock. They loaded me up a new box and sent me on my way. I think I left my jaw on the floor back then. I am not saying Home Depot is always so smooth. But, I think they "Might" (for some reason) have some agenda to make sure every contractor is WAY happy with their Ridgid line.
Sorry for the tangent on tools...... carry on....
The HF and Delta 30" tools are tools that "work" and are somewhat functional. But, there is a huge difference between what you get with the HF vs. the SA180. The SA180 comes with a side-disc. I don't use the side disc at all for sharpening and profiling. But, it has other uses. I have used it for modifying folde scales and squaring off parts of spines and handles of both. The disc is more effective at certain types of flat-grinding, but not flats of blades. The platen or a larger belt sander is better for that. But, there are other random uses.
The details that I see that make the SA180 better include:
- a much heavier duty and smoother running moter - side-by-side is extremely noticeable.
- The wheels are much better quality and spin much smoother.
- The wheels have a much more effective shape. On the 30" machines, the wheels are convexed which makes the belts curl. This curl can be a pain to compensate for. The wheels on the SA180 are flat which is much better for working on most anything.
- The top wheel has a spring release for MUCH easier changing of belts. When working with knives, you tend to need to change belt grits often. With the cheaper 30" models, you have to wiggle and work the tight belts off. It is a PITA.
- There is a LOT more functional work room on the 42" belt face vs. the 30". This is quite helpful IMO.
- The heavier unit helps control vibrating better. Besides the smoother wheels, smoother moter, the weight also (all 3) contribute to a smoother running machine.
**** And my current delimma: I am trying NOT to buy 30" belts that I would have to throw away as soon as I do upgrade to a 42"... because I WILL someday soon. Just very tight with funds or I would be all over that Amazon deal.
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Am I trying to sell you on the SA180? yes, because I think it is a better tool and the best bang for the buck for most people.
On the other hand, if you just want to do some "light" tinkering with knives and do some minor profiling and sharpening, and aren't really into tools and projects so much, you really "Can" do a lot with the 30" and an arguement could be made that it can do what you need it to do.
Take a look at many of the projects Vic and I have posted all done on a cheap 30".
But, I KNOW the 42" is WAY nicer to use, is a much higher quality tool with better design, better quality parts, heavier duty and can provide better results easier. I wish it had variable speed control. But, apparently, for now, you have to spend closer to $2,000 on a WAY high end belt sander for that type of control. I think I would like a 2" wide belt, but that is WAY more expensive on much higher end tools as well. 1" can do a LOT.
In case you missed from one of my posts many months ago, I talked a budy of mine into getting the SA180. So, I have used his a few times and know the differences.
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