Tyger-

From the pics it looks like you are able to do the convexing with the platen and back plate left on the grinder...? Do you just put the belt on real loose? I actually took those off of mine but I would like to replace them and still be able to do convex grinds.

Thanks.

I kept them on, and just do the convexing about 1.5" - 2" above where the back plate stops. I found it a pain in the "derrier" having to take it on and off, for when I'm playing with my woodworking.

So, I fiddled around, and found that by staying above the back plate, you can still get the convex edge, and it's not hard on the belt (Although I found I had to take a file to the lip of the top portion of the back plate, to remove an edge that would've caused problems.)

It is very tight between the motor and the mount for the platen and tool rest. Hard to get a wrench in there. The Delta was much easier, just loosen the socket screw and rotate the platen out of the way. For a full convex grind on a wide blade, I find that I need the belt flex of the whole distance between the wheels without the support of the platen to get the curved shape I want. When I desire a less curved grind, I grind closer to the top wheel and use less pressure. It is a pain to reinstall the platen for flat grind, though.

Thanks guys. I got my machetes yesterday so I'll be doing lots of practicing tomorrow. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" />

I'm starting to think if I REALLY want to get into knife making, I am going to need a knife makers grinder. I can use this one for sharpening but the knife making grinder for blade grinding, shaping, etc.

Thanks. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

NIce job on the sharpening.

I also *Love* the Diemaco C7A1 and the Elcan....

Tell me about the Elcan! Is it a great optic? I've never gotten the opportunity to use one.

You know your scopes and rifles; I'm impressed! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

To answer your question, I'd qualify it as a decent optic, but not a great one. It's selling point is its' extreme durability and easy click ranges. Again, it's not a piece of garbage by any means; but for what you pay for it, I'd buy a nicer Leupold or higher end model for my hunting rifles. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smirk.gif" alt="" />