We’ve spent hours researching and testing various models to identify the ones that offer the best performance, durability, and value. Our top pick for the best slow speed bench grinder for sharpening is the RIKON Professional Power Tools, 80-805.
A dull knife is a dangerous knife. Keeping your knives sharp is an essential part of any kitchen routine. One of the most effective ways to maintain sharp edges on your knives is by using a slow-speed bench grinder for sharpening.
Slow-speed bench grinders are specifically designed for sharpening tasks. They operate at a slower speed than regular bench grinders, which reduces the risk of overheating the blade and damaging the temper.
This slower speed also allows for more precise sharpening, making it an ideal tool for those who want to keep their knives in optimal condition.
When choosing a slow-speed bench grinder for sharpening, there are a few critical things to consider.
The first is the size of the wheel. Most slow-speed bench grinders come with either 6-inch or 8-inch wheels.
The larger the wheel, the faster it will spin, which can lead to overheating and damage to the blade. As such, a 6-inch wheel is typically the better choice for sharpening tasks (find out the best bench grinder for sharpening).
Another important factor to consider is the grit of the wheel. Slow-speed bench grinders typically come with two wheels, one with coarse grit and one with fine grit.
The coarse grit is used for shaping and sharpening, while the fine grit is used for honing and refining the edge. It’s essential to choose a bench grinder with the appropriate grit for your needs.
In this article, we will explore the best slow-speed bench grinders for sharpening. Whether you’re a professional chef or a home cook, a slow-speed bench grinder is an essential tool for keeping your knives sharp and safe.
Best Slow Speed Bench Grinders for Sharpening
If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient tool to sharpen your knives, scissors, and other cutting tools, a slow-speed bench grinder might be just what you need.
With its low RPM and high torque, a slow-speed bench grinder can help you achieve a sharp and precise edge without damaging your tools.
In this article, we’ve rounded up the best slow-speed bench grinders for sharpening on Amazon, based on their features, performance, and customer reviews.
1. RIKON Professional Power Tools, 80-805, Bench Grinder
If you’re looking for a reliable and durable bench grinder for sharpening, the RIKON Professional Power Tools 80-805 is an excellent choice.
Pros
- The slow speed of 1750 RPM reduces heat build-up, making it perfect for sharpening operations.
- The 1/2 hp motor provides more than enough power for small workshops and for carpenters, turners, carvers, and other craftspeople working with hand tools.
- The cast iron base with anti-vibration rubber feet ensures stability and safety during use.
Cons
- The tool rests are not micro-adjustable.
- Some users reported that the included aluminum oxide wheels are of average quality.
- The grinder is relatively heavy at 36.6 pounds.
In terms of performance, the RIKON Professional Power Tools 80-805 is a top-notch bench grinder that can handle most sharpening tasks with ease.
The slow speed of 1750 RPM is ideal for keeping heat build-up to a minimum, which helps to prevent damage to your tools.
The 1/2 hp motor provides more than enough power for most sharpening tasks, and the cast iron base with anti-vibration rubber feet ensures stability and safety during use.
One potential downside of this bench grinder is that the tool rests are not micro-adjustable, which may be a problem for some users.
Additionally, some users reported that the included aluminum oxide wheels are of average quality, although this is a relatively minor issue. Finally, the grinder is relatively heavy at 36.6 pounds, which may be a concern if you need to move it around frequently.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and durable bench grinder for sharpening, the RIKON Professional Power Tools 80-805 is an excellent choice. Its slow speed, powerful motor, and sturdy construction make it a great investment for any workshop.
2. WEN Slow Speed Bench Grinder
If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable slow-speed bench grinder for sharpening, the WEN BG4286 is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The soft start 3-amp motor turns the 8-by-1-inch grinding wheels at speeds of up to 1750 RPM, making it perfect for reviving old tools, knives, chisels, bits, and more.
- The low speed provides maximum precision with minimal heat to your workpiece, ensuring that your tools are sharpened without damaging their edges.
- The grinder comes with one general 60-grit wheel and one fine finish 120-grit wheel, as well as pivoting tool rests, a sturdy base with pre-drilled mounting holes, and adjustable eye guards.
Cons
- Some users have complained about the quality of the included grinding wheels, but they can be easily replaced with higher-quality options.
- The tool rests are not as sturdy as some users would like, but they can be adjusted to fit your needs.
- The orange and black color scheme may not be to everyone’s taste, but it does make the grinder easy to spot in a crowded workshop.
Overall, the WEN BG4286 is a solid choice for anyone in need of a slow-speed bench grinder for sharpening. Its low speed and high precision make it ideal for delicate work, and its affordable price point makes it accessible to a wide range of users.
3. BUCKTOOL Low-Speed Bench Grinder, TLG-150S
If you are looking for a reliable and high-precision slow-speed bench grinder for sharpening, the BUCKTOOL 6-inch 1/3HP Low-Speed Bench Grinder is a great option.
Pros
- Equipped with a 1/3HP motor, providing 1750RPM speed, making your work more precise
- Includes a 60-grit Brown Aluminum Oxide Wheel and an 80-grit White Aluminum Oxide Wheel, suitable for grinding various materials
- Work rest can be adjusted without tools for easy work, and the cast aluminum base with rubber feet reduces vibration and improves stability during grinding
Cons
- Some users may prefer a slower speed for more delicate work
- The included grinding platforms may not be suitable for all users
- Some users have reported issues with the motor overheating
The BUCKTOOL 6-inch 1/3HP Low-Speed Bench Grinder is a great choice for those looking for a reliable and high-precision grinder for sharpening tools.
The 1/3HP motor provides a speed of 1750 RPM, making it suitable for accurate grinding operations and ensuring your work is more precise.
In addition, the grinder includes a 60-grit Brown Aluminum Oxide Wheel and an 80-grit White Aluminum Oxide Wheel, making it suitable for grinding various materials.
The work rest can be adjusted without tools, making it easy to work with, and the cast aluminum base with rubber feet reduces vibration and improves stability during grinding.
While some users may prefer a slower speed for more delicate work, the BUCKTOOL 6-inch 1/3HP Low-Speed Bench Grinder is still a reliable and high-quality grinder.
However, some users have reported issues with the motor overheating, so it is important to keep an eye on this during use.
Overall, the BUCKTOOL 6-inch 1/3HP Low-Speed Bench Grinder is a great investment for those looking for a reliable and high-precision grinder for sharpening tools.
With its variable grinding options and adjustable work rest, it is a versatile and useful tool for any workshop (check out the best variable speed bench grinder).
4. RIKON Power Tools 80-808 Low-Speed Bench Grinder
If you’re looking for a powerful and versatile bench grinder for sharpening, the RIKON Power Tools 80-808 8″ 1 hp Low Speed 1725 RPM Bench Grinder is a great option.
Pros
- The cast iron base with rubber feet reduces vibration, making it stable and easy to use.
- Metal wheel guards provide added protection and include 31mm (1-1/4″) rear dust ports for hooking up dust collectors, keeping your workspace clean.
- The adjustable cast metal tool rests give solid tool support, ensuring precise and accurate sharpening.
Cons
- The grinding wheels that come with it are not the best quality and may need to be replaced for optimal performance.
- The shaft is manufactured poorly, causing the grinding wheel to wobble side to side. However, this can be corrected by filing the shoulder of the shaft as instructed in the product information.
- Some users have reported difficulty with assembly, but the manual provides clear instructions and it should not be a major issue.
This bench grinder is perfect for both tough grinding jobs and finesse shaping and sharpening of hand tools.
The tool rests are extra-large and flat, without a drill bit sharpening groove, making it easy to get the support you need for precise work (you might also be interested in checking out the best benchtop drill press).
The grinder also includes a set of plain and a set of 2.5x Magnifying Eye Shields, as well as an LED work light for added visibility.
One of the standout features of this bench grinder is the dual dust collection ports on the rear of the wheel guards, which make it easy to hook up a dust collector and keep your workspace clean.
The cast iron base with rubber feet also reduces vibration, making it stable and easy to use.
Overall, if you’re looking for a powerful and versatile bench grinder for sharpening, the RIKON Power Tools 80-808 8″ 1 hp Low Speed 1725 RPM Bench Grinder is a great choice.
With its solid construction, adjustable tool rests and dual dust collection ports, it’s a reliable and efficient tool for any workshop.
5. BUCKTOOL Low-Speed Bench Grinder TDS-200C4HL
If you’re looking for a reliable and sturdy slow-speed bench grinder for sharpening, the BUCKTOOL 8-inch 3/4 HP Low-Speed Bench Grinder is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The powerful 1750RPM low-speed induction motor with a rating power of 3/4Hp and peak power of 1-1/4Hp makes it easy to drive the CBN wheel.
- Its extra wide 1-1/2 Inch first-class WA grinding wheel can work with a 1-1/2 inch CBN wheel, making it perfect for carpenters, turners, and carvers.
- The super 3Watts LED with individual switch is great for detail sharpening, and the angle adjustable eye shield includes one 3 times magnifying lens.
Cons
- The luxury cast aluminum tool rest can only adjust from 0-45 degrees.
- Some users have reported that the wheels that come with the grinder are not of the highest quality.
- The price point may be a bit high for some users.
The BUCKTOOL 8-inch 3/4 HP Low-Speed Bench Grinder is a great option for those who need a reliable and sturdy grinder for sharpening their tools.
The powerful motor and extra-wide grinding wheel make it easy to use, and the LED light and magnifying lens make it easy to see what you’re doing.
One potential downside to this grinder is that the tool rest can only adjust from 0-45 degrees, which may not be enough for some users. Additionally, some users have reported that the wheels that come with the grinder are not of the highest quality.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality slow-speed bench grinder for sharpening, the BUCKTOOL 8-inch 3/4 HP Low-Speed Bench Grinder is definitely worth considering.
Buying Guide
When looking for a slow-speed bench grinder for sharpening, there are several features to consider before making a purchase. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Motor Power
The power of the motor is an important factor to consider when choosing a slow-speed bench grinder.
A higher horsepower motor will be able to handle tougher materials and provide a smoother grinding experience.
However, a higher horsepower motor will also increase the cost of the grinder. It is important to find a balance between power and cost that suits your needs.
Wheel Size
The size of the grinding wheel is another important factor to consider. A larger wheel will provide a larger grinding surface, which is useful for sharpening larger tools.
However, a larger wheel will also require a larger motor to maintain a consistent speed. It is important to choose a wheel size that matches the tools you will be sharpening.
Speed
The speed of the grinder is also an important consideration.
A slow-speed bench grinder is ideal for sharpening because it reduces the risk of overheating the tool and damaging the temper. Look for a grinder with a speed of around 1,750 RPM for the best results.
Additional Features
Some additional features to consider include adjustable tool rests, dust collection systems, and lighting.
Adjustable tool rests allow you to position your tool at the correct angle for sharpening. Dust collection systems help keep your work area clean, while lighting provides better visibility when sharpening.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best slow-speed bench grinder for your sharpening needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the advantages of using a slow-speed bench grinder for sharpening tools?
A slow-speed bench grinder is ideal for sharpening tools because it operates at a slower speed than a standard bench grinder. This slower speed reduces the risk of overheating and damaging the tool being sharpened.
Additionally, a slow-speed bench grinder allows for more precise and accurate sharpening, resulting in a sharper and more durable edge.
How can I choose the best grinding wheel for a slow-speed bench grinder?
When choosing a grinding wheel for a slow-speed bench grinder, it’s important to consider the type of tool you will be sharpening and the material the wheel is made of.
For example, a diamond wheel is ideal for sharpening carbide tools, while a white aluminum oxide wheel is better suited for sharpening high-speed steel tools.
What features should I look for when selecting a slow-speed bench grinder for precise sharpening?
When selecting a slow-speed bench grinder for precise sharpening, look for features such as a powerful motor, adjustable tool rests, and variable speed control. These features will allow you to sharpen a wide range of tools with precision and accuracy.
How do I maintain a slow-speed bench grinder to ensure optimal sharpening results?
To ensure optimal sharpening results, it’s important to regularly clean and maintain your slow-speed bench grinder.
This includes cleaning the grinding wheels and tool rests, checking for worn or damaged parts, and lubricating moving parts as needed.
For other applications, you might be interested in checking out the following guides:
Can I sharpen all types of tools with a slow-speed bench grinder, and are there any limitations?
While a slow-speed bench grinder can be used to sharpen a wide range of tools, there are some limitations.
For example, it may not be suitable for sharpening certain types of knives or tools with complex shapes. It’s important to check the manufacturer’s recommendations and use caution when sharpening unfamiliar tools.
What safety precautions should I take when using a slow-speed bench grinder for sharpening?
When using a slow-speed bench grinder for sharpening, it’s important to wear eye and ear protection, as well as gloves to protect your hands.
Additionally, make sure the grinding wheels are properly installed and secured and never exceed the recommended speed for the grinding wheel.