Knife sharpening is an art, and it is an art that requires proper guidance and tools to make it happen. And one tool that will help you get there is a 1×30 belt sander.
However, getting by the best 1×30 belt sander isn’t as easy as it sounds, and the process can be quite intimidating.
So it’s imperative to know the ins and outs of this before making a firm decision.
Buyers Guide
Many things go into making the best sander belt. I’ll take you through a few of them, and they’ll help you get where you want and get what you want.
Here’s what you should definitely keep in mind when choosing out the best 1×30 sander belt for yourself!
Size
The first factor that you must look into is the size of the belt.
Generally speaking, the size often refers to the width here and how much it can cover with each revolution.
I would, of course, recommend getting something that is wider if you intend to deal with bigger material. However, a smaller one would do as well if you only intend to sharpen the knife or use it for the occasional odd job.
Overall Motor Capacity
Motor capacity is also another factor that is very important when choosing a complete kit for yourself.
The main reason for that is because the overall motor capacity will dictate the type of work that you can do and how easily you can get done with it.
Motor capacity is also gauged by RPM, so I would recommend something relatively high if you intend to use this for professional purposes.
Mounting Options
One thing about the belt sander is that they need to be properly mounted.
Since they’re operating at such a high capacity, they need something that they can hold on to for stability. This will also translate into better performance since good mounting reduces vibration and an overall lack of firm holding.
Good Manual
Finally, a good manual is also one factor that you need to look into if you intend to make the most out of your model.
Some of them arrive pre-assembled, but not all of them. And for those who don’t, you need a model that will allow you to lead the way rather than using guesswork.
Furthermore, a good manual will also help a lot with maintenance.
Top 1×30 Belt Sander For Knife Making
I have briefly reviewed the top 7 1×30 sander belts that you can get these years.
With each model, I’ve also highlighted a few pros and cons that will help you narrow down your prospects.
Here are the top 7 1×30 sander belts of 2021!
1. WEN 6515T 1 in. x 30 in. Belt Sander
I want to start with the WEN 6515T 1 in. x 30 in. Belt Sander. This is a pretty reliable model that, once set up, will give you excellent results throughout.
It features a heavy-duty base and is designed to ensure that the workstation is always kept clean.
However, it’s not as accurate as sanders go, but that doesn’t have a carryover in its performance.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Heavy-duty base
- Maximum vacuuming efficiency
- Easily replaceable
- Easy assembly
Cons
- The adhesive-backed disc could be better
- Not accurate
2. EX ELECTRONIX EXPRESS Mini 1 x 30 Belt Sander
Next up, the EX ELECTRONIX EXPRESS Mini 1 x 30 Belt Sander is a model that I would primarily recommend to beginners and those just getting started.
Arriving pre-assembled, the EX electronics can help you step up the game based on its easy handling and assembly.
You won’t have any modification options, but that shouldn’t be an issue; you can work well with it regardless.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Comes pre-assembled
- Beginner-friendly
- Easy handling
Cons
- Can’t adjust the belt length
- Not heavy-duty
3. Grizzly Industrial H6070
The Grizzly Industrial H6070 is another beginner-friendly model that I would recommend to anyone getting into knife sharpening to hone their new skill.
The Grizzly Industrial H6070 requires no modification and is a use-as-is model that will help make your life better and knives sharper.
As far as motor performance is concerned, it’s not too bad. There are a few instances where it might slow down, but that’s perhaps the only downside to it.
Other than that, this model is a pretty good starter kit.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Very easy to use
- Budget-friendly
- No modification needed
Cons
- Dust port cover doesn’t line up
- The motor slows down occasionally
4. XtremepowerUS 1″ X 30″ Belt / 5″ Disc Sander
Now moving on to my professional-based models, the XtremepowerUS 1″ X 30″ Belt / 5″ Disc Sander is a great choice if you need something that can take a hit and still crank out prime performance.
With many features geared towards providing easy performance, such as a strong base and easy handling, the XtremepowerUS 1″ X 30″ Belt / 5″ Disc Sander is a reliable pick.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Heavy-duty material
- Dust collection port
- Convenient handling
- Easy assembly
Cons
- The table for the belts sits a little off
5. RIKON Power Tools 50-151
I recommend the RIKON Power Tools 50-151 to all types of users who are looking for a budget-friendly model that will still help them get work done.
The only thing you’ll need is a proper mounting space, after which you’ll be set for life.
The RIKON Power Tools 50-151 features a pretty strong motor that can help with versatility and is overall a nice choice if you want something to fall back on if you want to meet deadlines.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Dust port included
- Budget-friendly
- Very powerful motor
Cons
- The power switch is difficult to use
- Needs proper mounting
6. 1/3HP Disc & Belt Sanders
The 1/3HP Disc & Belt Sanders is also one model that truly lives up to its name.
Relatively new in the industry, the 1/3HP Disc & Belt Sanders has the potential to be one of the greats not too long from now. It’s very easy to use and cranks outperformance without a sweat.
However, I would recommend looking for alternative manuals since the ones provided in the package aren’t as good to help you from A to Z.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Elegant design
- Easy to use
- Suitable for beginners
Cons
- Require elaborate setup
- Bad manual
7. Rikon 50-161VS Disc Variable Speed Sander
Last but not least, we now have the Rikon 50-161VS Power Tools. I think this is a nice model if you want something strong and rigid.
The setup can be a little challenging, but once you’re past that, you can look forward to good performance. This is based on many features, which include its variable speed and heavy-duty performing motor.
Overall, the Rikon 50-161VS Power Tools is a must-have if you want a model that you wouldn’t need to upgrade down the road.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Efficient motor
- Rigid base
- Variable speed
- Easy correct positioning
Cons
- Worktable doesn’t lock well
- The table is a little small
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do the belts keep breaking on my belt sander?
The main culprit when it comes to broken belts is heat, humidity, age, and an overall lack of maintenance.
You can’t do much about all of this except maintenance, so make sure to check on it from time to time.
How long do belt sanders belts last?
How long a belt sanders belt lasts depends on a multitude of factors. This includes things such as how often it is used, the type of work it does, the immediate environment, and how often you check up on maintenance.
Though some models can last up to 10 years, the average age is somewhere around 5.
What is a belt sander good for?
A belt sander serves a lot of purposes. The main one among them is shaping and finishing wood and similar material.
The most common application they have, especially if you’re a homeowner, is to sharpen knives.
How do you clean the sanding belt?
The best way to clean a sanding belt is by using a cleaning stick that often comes as part of the kit, or you can get it separately.
I would also recommend doing this quite often because you don’t want particles getting stuck here and there to the point that you can’t even get the motor to turn on.
Conclusion
Choosing the right sander belt is very important, and I hope this segment got you closer to your goal.
If you have any questions or queries or have any feedback about the models mentioned above, do mention them in the comment section below!
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