Wasn't sure where to post this either because there isnt a "tool" section or i wasn't looking hard enough. Looking to buy a bench grinder and I need some advice. Does 6 in. sound right or is there a better size? What should the HP rating be? How about a light, Is it nessesary for accuracy?(im one of those people who strive for perfection in their own work) Thanks in advance, all advice is appreciated
I find a 6in is fine. Course I don't use it for everything. a 4 1/2 grinder with some grinding wheels and cutting disc are my first tool of choice. I haven't found anything flawed in my $20 6 in bench grinder , got it at a local discount store. It works great. Would opt for a lighted one if I had to do it over. eastwoods charges $60 for the same one I got for $20. HF has an 8in with light for $60, think anything over 50 gets free shipping. http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/Displayitem.taf?itemnumber=37823
I've been using a 6" grinder, but I'm moving up to an 8". The reason is, I'm not able to grind a long piece since the motor extends forward and beyond the front of the grinding wheel. My grinder IS old, so the new 6" grinders may be different. I'm either getting a DeWalt or Porter Cable. I always buy the best, so I don't have to buy it again, ever. Having a light on the grinder is okay, but I use a free standing halogen light system so I can put the light where I want it. Just my thoughts.
I'll second that!!! I instantly returned mine when I stalled it trying to use the wire wheel to clean a bolt:rant: If you want a Craftsman, but the biggest one they have.Do No:
Craftsman is bad? Thats a first for me. Now i know for sure 6 in. but not sure of the brand, should i cheap out and go to my local HOBO or go for the Craftsman? o No: I have a belt drive bench grinder but would rather not put a hole in my bench.
I always supported Craftsman until I used the "Anniversary" piece of Chinese crap grinder. It fell apart after a few uses. DON'T BUY IT!
Buy a Milwaukee bench grinder. It's made in the U.S.A. and it's not a piece of crap like all the other bench grinders out there. Plus.it's got plenty of power for any kind of job.
Ya can't be afraid of foreign made products. The computer your using wasn't made in America. So are most electronic products in your home. They may be assembled in America but the parts were produced by 1hr employees in far away lands. Ya just gotta shop smart.
I didnt find any bench grinders on their website, only angle grinders. Where did you find them? o No: Thats the bottom line. But im surprised at how many people were disapointed in Craftsman, i have many of my father's power tools that are 20 years old and still work great. Now i'm a bit weary of the Craftsman bench grinders.
Oh yea, I still have my grandpas Craftsman jig saw. Gotta be 40+ years old. My self I haven't had any trouble with CM or CE tools from harbor freight. I have the CM 8 in goose neck buffer and its nice. The CE tools are nice as they all come with replacement brushes. That is the only part that really wears out. I have a 4 1/2in grinder, palm sander, and the 24in metal cut off saw. All work great and cost 1/3 of name brand tools.
