[EdCaffreyMS]

I keep the following grit sizes in the shop....

50 grit (in either a blue zirconia or Norton "Blaze" which is ceramic)

120 grit

220 grit

400 grit

800 grit

1200 grit

I also have various other belts that I consider "special purpose" such as scotchbrite belts in 2 different grades, a couple of cloth polishing belts, and a couple of 600 grit cork belts.

Belts come with various backings, which equate to different levels of stiffness. The basics of belt backings are as follows:

"Y" weight backing: heavy and very stiff, best used for flat or large contact wheel grinding

"X" weight backing: slightly lighter than "Y" weight backings, stiff with limited flexibility

"J" weight backing: thin, flexibly backing, generally available in 220 and finer grits. This backing can "roll" around contours and works well in tight radius applications and general finish work.

There are also variants of these backings, especially on the newer belts like Norax belts.

Belt grits and brands are like vehicles.....everybody has their favorite, and some seem to work better than others for specific applications and individuals.