Polishing Wheels for A bench Motor

[brucegodlesky]

I just cringe thinking about the results of innattenativeness. This past winter, I stuck a blade in the armpit of a canvas shirt. Good thing it was a strong shirt.

[Hollon]

I just got a new buffer (actually free old grinder + buffing wheels) and found out how dangerous they are, especially with one of those loose cotton wheels. Luckily it never actually left my hands without my intentions

[MRobb]

Ok. We all know that power tools are inherently dangerous, especially if you don't give it your full & undivided attention. But we all have them, use them & love them. My question is this. For those of us who have yet to aquire, but are looking into, a powered polishing tool/system. What would the best choice be? I know there are many variables to consider. But for, say, tools & knife blades as one example. For the hobbyist. What would a good choice be? Weighing safety, function, safety, final outcome, safety, etc.... ????????????

[Bentiron1946]

For my jewelry I have a HF bench grinder with tapered spindles. I removed the wheel guards, installed the tapered spindles, then spun the muslin wheels on. One thing to be sure to do when using polishing wheels is to wear a face mask and face shield. Inhaling the grit and cotton particles just ain't healthy and getting something thrown in your face hurts like crazy. Never polish small chain on a wheel, use a tumbler with steel shot. Wear gloves, the metal get hot quick and when it gets hot you tend to get careless.

[MRobb]

Thanks Bentiron. I appreciate the info.

[blafen]

i've had a piece of damascus unweld on the polishing wheel which raised a little steel flap which caught on the wheel and drove the chunk of steel through my 3/4 inch plywood bench top.

[Glenn]

Safety guards are required when using grinding, polishing wheels. They will catch on the metal and throw it back at you. The only question is when and how hard, but it WILL happen.

drove the chunk of steel through my 3/4 inch plywood bench top.

This is the force you must consider when choosing a safety shield for the eyes, face, and body. Choose wisely.

[coltpax]

The buffer is one of the most dangerous tools in my shop. It sits out there waiting for chances at trying to kill me. When i was working on a throwing spike, using the loose canvas wheel, it pulled the knife out of my hand and stuck it into a particle board wall. I thought it was cool, then got to thinking that that wall could have been me. Also, does anyone know a place that still sells the bricks of polishing compound? I looked at lowes and HF, and all they have are those tiny sticks.

[Rich Hale]

The buffer is the second most dangerous thing in my shop...I am the first. Most knife supply houses sell the buffing compounds.

[triw]

Originally Posted by Badger1875

IFrom that day on and till today, also for the future, I use(d) cotton gloves covered with chain gloves and over all a leather glove for the grip. To protect my chest and other front bodyparts I wear a chain apron and never had problems again.....


Badger

Where do you get the chain gloves and apron?
Thanks William