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If you try to cut a ripe tomato with a dull knife, this will definitely lead to crushed pulp on the table. With a sharp edge, on the contrary, it will turn out to make beautiful, thin slices that decorate the dish. Working with any sharpened tool brings pleasure, and the productivity of the process also increases. Depending on the type of cutting edge (knife blade, saw chain teeth, circular disc, drill tip), appropriate sharpening equipment must be used. Our review of the best grinders of all types will help highlight the most popular and time-tested models.
Tips for choosing a grinder
First, we will mention a few basic criteria for choosing a grinding machine that will help you navigate the existing variety of characteristics. This will provide a better understanding of which machine is right for you, so as not to be led by sales consultants. When buying a grinder, consider the following parameters.
Shaft bore diameter and circle dimensions
To install a grinding wheel, the equipment is equipped with a shaft with a diameter of 10-32 mm. The higher the indicator, the larger the abrasive element is allowed to be installed in it. You will need a large grinding wheel if you plan to sharpen large equipment (axe, scythe, farming equipment). To edit a small tool (drill, chisel, knife), use small and thin discs. Installing a large circle on a thin shaft through adapter bushings will lead to overheating of the motor and a reduction in working life.
Appliance power
The ability of the electric motor to resist the pressure applied by the operator to clamp the tool being sharpened depends on this characteristic. At low power, rotation may even stop. In everyday life, the power of grinding equipment is sufficient in the range of 100-250 watts. For enterprises and workshops, it is better to look for products with an indicator from 350 to 750 watts. But it is important to take into account the voltage that will be needed for connection. In some cases, a 220 V household network may not be enough, and a 3-phase input will be required.
Developed turnovers
The rotation speed of the grinding element varies from 2500 to 7000 rpm. If you plan to dress the edge of thin steel, a value of 2500-2800 rpm is sufficient. Otherwise, the metal will overheat and lose its hardening, and this will quickly dull it. For tailor’s scissors and objects similar in thickness, revolutions of 3000 per minute are used. If it is necessary to sharpen high carbon steel edges with a thickness of 4-10 mm, the maximum possible rotation speed of 6-7 thousand rpm may be required.
Machine equipment
The better equipped the grinder, the more convenient and safer it is to work with. Among the “buns” can be: baths for cooling and hardening, a lamp with a flexible arm or built-in backlight diodes, a folding transparent plexiglass screen. The design of some machines provides for the presence of a support stand so that the tool is not pulled out of your hands.
Rating of the best grinding machines
Nomination | Place | Name of product | Price |
---|---|---|---|
The best universal grinders | 1 | Metabo DSD 200 | 19 169 ₽ |
2 | See GB801 | 12 081 ₽ | |
3 | ELITECH ST 600S | 6 551 ₽ | |
4 | See GB602 | 7 109 ₽ | |
5 | Interskol T-200/350 | 4 730 ₽ | |
6 | VORTEX TS-400 | 4 390 ₽ | |
The best chain sharpeners | 1 | REZER EG235-CN | 5 499 ₽ |
2 | CHAMPION C2001 | 6 499 ₽ | |
3 | Huter ECS-100 | 2 690 ₽ | |
4 | VORTEX SZTs-200 | 2 490 ₽ | |
The best machines for sharpening drills and knives | 1 | DIOLD MZS-03 | 2 381 ₽ |
2 | CALIBER EZS-65MF | 1 899 ₽ | |
The best machines for sharpening saw blades | 1 | Encore Corvette-472 | 28 780 ₽ |
2 | Kraton SBS-600 | 28 850 ₽ |
The best universal grinders
The design of products in this category implies the widespread use of equipment on which you can sharpen both an ordinary kitchen knife and a specific needle for argon arc welding. This sharpener is suitable for a workshop, service station or other enterprise to keep all used cutting tools in excellent condition.
Metabo DSD 200
Rating: 4.9
In the first place is a powerful machine equipped with two grindstones and shafts with a bore diameter of 32 mm. The equipment is designed to work with circles up to 20 cm in diameter and up to 25 mm thick. An abrasive of this section will last for a long time. So that the crumb flying off during operation does not accumulate around, a pipe for exit is provided behind the protective casing. The maximum speed of rotation of the equipment is 2980 rpm. Users in the reviews like the high-quality assembly of the machine, where everything is tightly fitted and works well. The body is powder-coated and well protected against corrosion even when used in an unheated workshop.
We considered the grinder one of the best due to the increased power of 750 watts. It is impossible to stop the rotation by any effort. This is the best option for using the grinder in the workshop, where it will be used every day for 2-5 hours. Despite intensive use, the machine copes well with all loads and demonstrates trouble-free operation.
Advantages
rubberized start and stop buttons;
two protective folding screens;
the possibility of fixing the case on the table;
adjustable angle stands.
Disadvantages
high price;
the machine shakes strongly at start;
380W connection required.
See GB801
Rating: 4.8
The second place among universal grinding machines is occupied by GB801, designed to be connected to a 220 V network. The device produces 550 W of power and spins the shafts up to a speed of 2850 rpm. The machine is equipped with two stones with a grain size of 120 and 60 units. Their diameter is 20 cm. Buyers in the reviews are satisfied that the machine does not have a beating of the disk, as well as backlash. The grinder is packed securely, so it’s not scary to order it via the Internet.
This is a worthy representative of the professional class among universal grinding machines for connecting to a single-phase network. Most owners speak with approval of its powerful engine. There is also a diode backlight, right under the protective screen, which does not hit the eyes, but illuminates the work area well. Thanks to this, additional bright lighting will not be required at the installation site of the equipment. At the same time, the diodes are of a hidden type, which means that they are more difficult to damage than a lamp sticking out on the leg.
Advantages
convenient one-key operation;
supporting supports on each disc;
folding protective screens;
Rubber feet prevent slipping on surfaces.
Disadvantages
there is no way to fix it on the table;
noisy work.
ELITECH ST 600S
Rating: 4.7
Here is another 600W professional grinder equipped with two abrasive stones with a diameter of 20 cm and a thickness of 25 mm. The device weighs 14.5 kg and, judging by the reviews, it is perfectly balanced, so it vibrates minimally on the table. The maximum rotation speed is 2850 rpm. Management is carried out by a single key placed in an isolated shell. It is convenient to hold the tool being sharpened thanks to metal supports with a variable angle, as well as a molded groove for the location of drills. Adjustable backlight provides good visibility of the work area.
Our experts liked the professional grinding unit because one of the glasses is magnifying. This is useful for better edge control on small parts such as tungsten needles or drill tips with a diameter of 1.5-3mm.
Advantages
single control key;
well balanced design;
rotary lamp;
there is a possibility of fixing to the table.
Disadvantages
during prolonged operation, the motor begins to heat up;
small water tank;
Light can only be supplied to one work area.
See GB602
Rating: 4.6
Outwardly, this is a copy of the “older” GB801 model, only with reduced dimensions. The machine works with stone disks with a diameter of 15 cm and a cross section of 16 mm. The motor power is 250 W, but at the same time, the idle speed remains the same as in the professional versions – 2850 rpm. For the convenience of holding the sharpened object, support stands are provided. Their distance from the circle can be adjusted using two clamps, but it is impossible to change the angle of inclination. The grinder sits well on the table and does not vibrate. Four rubber feet keep it from “jumping” on smooth surfaces.
Judging by the reviews, this machine is notable for its quiet operation, which is important if it is installed next to the workplaces of other employees, and not in a separate room. The owners also note that the motor does not heat up during prolonged use. But due to the reduced power, it is better to use grinding equipment in a workshop or garage, and not in production.
Advantages
economical consumption of electricity;
two transparent protective screens;
simple one-button control;
easy tool change.
Disadvantages
bearing seats wear out quickly;
support stands made of thin metal;
the stops are not adjustable in tilt angle.
Interskol T-200/350
Rating: 4.5
This is a universal semi-professional grinding machine with a power of 350 W, developing rotation up to 2950 rpm at idle. The model is equipped with two circles with a diameter of 20 cm, mounted on shafts with a seat size of 16 mm. The grinder weighs 11.8 kg, so it is not difficult to move it from place to place. If necessary, the machine can be fixed permanently on a workbench to reduce vibration. For this, four through holes are provided in the base. In reviews, buyers praise the product for its relatively quiet operation and circles without beating.
We considered the grinding unit the best in terms of safety. In addition to folding screens and stands to help hold inventory, the machine has metal sides on the sides of the start key. This prevents accidental pressing and unauthorized start-up or shutdown of the device. Even when working with long workpieces, you will not hit the button, breaking it.
Advantages
durable folding glass;
the body can be attached to the workbench;
adjustable stands;
oblique bend in the support for secure placement of the drill.
Disadvantages
it will not be possible to uniformly supply light when two operators use the machine at the same time;
without fixing to the table is displaced radially to the side.
VORTEX TS-400
Rating: 4.4
The category of universal sharpeners is completed by the model of the domestic brand “VORTEX”. The machine operates at a speed of 2950 rpm and, judging by the reviews, does an excellent job of sharpening axes, chisels, knives and other tools. Abrasive stones from the kit are of good quality, so you do not need to change them to start the device. But grinding disk elements are mounted on shafts with a cross section of 12.7 mm, which is a rather rare size, so finding equipment can be a problem in small towns. Otherwise, this is a hardy machine with everything you need in the kit. The model is equipped with a lamp on a flexible arm, which increases the visibility of the work area. There are transparent screens and support plates with quick reach adjustment.
Among the universal machines, this grinder stands out for the most affordable price. At the same time, the model has two stones of 20 cm in diameter and a power of 400 W, which resists the pressure of the operator well. In view of this ratio of price and quality, the product is recognized as the best and is recommended by experts for arranging a garage or a small workshop.
Advantages
there is a backlight on a flexible bracket;
the lamp is protected by its own casing;
good spark arrestors;
housing with rubber feet and the possibility of fixing to the workbench.
Disadvantages
specific landing diameter;
thin base plates.
The best chain sharpeners
If you often use a gas or electric saw, pay attention to sharpeners designed for straightening the teeth of the saw chain. Thanks to this machine, you will increase the productivity of the cutting tool and save on gasoline.
REZER EG235-CN
Rating: 4.9
The experts put in the first place in the review a grinding machine from the Rezer brand with a power of 235 W, which rotates the grinding wheel at a speed of 3000 rpm. The product is equipped with a grinding disc with a cross section of 4.5 mm and a diameter of 14.5 cm. The transparent casing allows you to monitor the work of the tool and control the rest of the stone. A stop screw is provided to adjust the immersion depth. Lowering the sharpener is convenient thanks to the wide ergonomic handle. Tilting to the side is possible with the help of the rear latch-lamb.
In the reviews, the machine is praised for its quiet operation. The motor does make a little noise, so in a small workshop it is safe for hearing to work with the device without personal protective equipment. If any shoe repairer specializes in sharpening saw chains, take a closer look at this compact and quiet piece of equipment.
Advantages
the convenient handle does not slip out of hands;
transparent cover;
simple control of two keys;
there is an illumination of a working zone.
Disadvantages
flimsy bed;
the engine heats up quickly.
CHAMPION C2001
Rating: 4.8
In second place is another popular model for sharpening chains, which is similar in characteristics to the one described above. Here 230 watts of power and 3000 rpm. The grinding equipment is equipped with an abrasive wheel with a diameter of 14.5 cm, the thickness of which is 3.2 mm. The model weighs 5.8 kg, so it is not difficult to rearrange it to another table or place it in the trunk of a car. The operator can adjust the angle of inclination and the ability to set a lowering limit.
We singled out the grinding unit as the best, since it is easy to purchase a new abrasive wheel for it. Original goods are available for sale in any city, because they are produced by a domestic manufacturer. If the disc is not available in the store at the moment (sold out, but new ones have not yet been brought), then in order not to wait for delivery, you can buy an abrasive stone from Rezer or Oregon, which also fit this machine. We recommend that you pay attention to the sharpening unit, if you often need to edit the chains and consumables should always be in stock.
Advantages
good vice for clamping the chain;
comfortable handle with a chipper;
transparent protective cover;
durable powder coating.
Disadvantages
reach far to the start and shutdown keys;
high price;
some threaded connections are made of plastic.
Huter ECS-100
Rating: 4.7
This sharpener already belongs to the category of household machines that are used to sharpen personal tools. This reduces chain maintenance time and makes sharpening work easier. The machine is more compact than its “brothers” and takes up less space on the workbench, which owners like in the reviews. The grinder works with small 10.8 cm discs, spinning them up to 5200 rpm. At the same time, the equipment consumes only 0.1 kW per hour. The swivel vise can be rotated 0-30º to match the plunge line of the abrasive element exactly to the configuration of the chain teeth.
We recommend this machine as the lightest in the category. Its weight is only 2 kg. If the chainsaw will be used for a couple of days remotely from home (cutting trees from relatives, preparing firewood, etc.), take the grinder with you to sharpen the edge of the chain and maintain the high performance of the sawing tool.
Advantages
can be attached to the base;
takes up little space on the workbench;
lowering depth limiter is provided;
economical energy consumption.
Disadvantages
protective cover is not transparent;
there is no adjustment for the angle of inclination of the grinding head;
the hand may come off the handle;
part of the elements on a plastic vise.
VORTEX SZTs-200
Rating: 4.6
The machine works with small circles with a diameter of 10 cm and a cross section of 3.2 mm. The abrasive is mounted on a shaft with a seat size of 10 mm. The sharpening part is located perpendicular to the base and provides a good overview to the operator. The disc is immersed by a mushroom-shaped handle, further than which is the start key. In the reviews, buyers rejoice at how the machine is stably located on the workbench. Fixation with four bolts makes the structure monolithic, eliminating any vibrations.
This grinder is recognized as the best in terms of price and quality. It has a metal frame and vise, as well as a transparent protective cover at the bottom. The power here is 200 W, and the grinding equipment spins up to 6000 rpm. At the same time, the model costs 2-3 times cheaper than its competitors.
Advantages
metal vice;
is stable on the workbench;
affordable cost;
engraved degree scale.
Disadvantages
the handle does not have an anti-slip lining;
the sharpening head is not adjustable in tilt angle to the side.
The best machines for sharpening drills and knives
If you have tried to sharpen a drill on a conventional machine, then you know how difficult it is. To facilitate the task, there are grinders where the operator does not need to monitor the sharpening angle, but only insert the tool into the provided hole. Editing the edge of a knife in such devices also requires a minimum of skill and takes less time.
DIOLD MZS-03
Rating: 4.8
The grinder is one of the smallest in the category, but has a wide range of functions. The machine is able to sharpen the blades of knives and scissors with the help of the side exit of the circle. On the front side, a fastening is provided for straightening chisels and chisels. The other groove is for installing drills. The power of the machine is 100 W, and the spindle spins up to 6700 rpm. Buyers are satisfied in the reviews with a complete set of goods with three nozzles, brushes, a spindle lock, a key and an additional external shaft.
The grinding unit is notable for the presence of a flexible shaft attached to the reverse side of the attachment axis of the main abrasive element. This allows you to grind the cutting edge of a specific tool in hard-to-reach places without removing the tooling. Even with the help of a conical nozzle on a flexible shaft, it will even be possible to engrave on metal.
Advantages
affordable cost;
a wide range of functions;
weight is only 1 kg;
compact dimensions 140x160x110 mm.
Disadvantages
plastic base;
difficult to change brushes.
CALIBER EZS-65MF
Rating: 4.7
And here is a household appliance from the Caliber brand, which is designed for straightening the cutting edge of scissors, drills, knives and chisels with chisels. The power of the grinding model is 65 W, so its operation will not affect the energy consumption. The grindstone rotates at a speed of 6 thousand rpm. The thickness of the abrasive is 7.5 mm. The product is equipped with a network cable 2 m long and has a mass of 1.6 kg.
We considered the machine to be the best due to its good price-quality ratio. The model, in fact, is a Chinese copy of grinding units from the GUS and Drill Doctor brands, therefore it has wide functionality, but costs several times cheaper. Users in the reviews report that knives and scissors after processing in the machine begin to cut much more confidently, and the drills quickly sink into the material, giving out even chips, and not crushed crumbs.
Advantages
the base can be fixed on the table through the through holes;
there is a scale of degrees of sharpening chisels;
two slots for scissors and knives;
economical consumption of electricity.
Disadvantages
slightly flimsy construction;
coarse grit for scissors;
it is difficult to understand how to sharpen drills the first time.
The best machines for sharpening saw blades
One of the difficult tasks is sharpening the teeth on the disk from the circular. Especially for these purposes, a special group of grinding machines has been developed that hold steel equipment with brackets at the right angle. Here are the best models that our experts were able to highlight.
Encore Corvette-472
Rating: 4.9
This sharpener is designed for daily use in the wood sawing shop to keep sawmill equipment in good condition. The machine is connected to a voltage of 220 V and generates a power of 370 watts. The abrasive wheel rotates at a speed of 3.5 thousand rpm. The stone disk has a diameter of 10 cm with a cross section of 2 mm, so it will last for a long time. The craftsmen in the reviews like that the circular saw blade is securely clamped in the mounting system and is easily rearranged for gradual sharpening.
This is a professional sharpening machine for preparing saw blades for work. The device does not rattle due to its location on a large steel base and a weight of 40 kg. Brackets for eyeliner disk have a minimum play, so the quality of sharpening is always on top. The manufacturer even provided for a reverse rotation lock so that each tooth is processed once and the master does not stray from the sequence of work.
Advantages
3 year manufacturer’s warranty;
good visibility of the scale on the turntable;
there is a reverse rotation lock;
lack of play in the bracket system.
Disadvantages
high price;
there is no protective fence;
The start button is located in an inconvenient place.
Kraton SBS-600
Rating: 4.8
This is another professional grinder with a similar power of 370 W to the model described above, but slightly inferior to it in terms of rotation speed. The grinding wheel here makes 2800 rpm against 3500, like a competitor. But this is also enough for quick sharpening of circular discs. Abrasive equipment for machines is the same and is 10 cm in diameter and 2 mm in thickness. The motor and sharpening head are located on a monolithic base with a total construction weight of 45 kg. This protects the machine from vibration. If necessary, the machine can be installed permanently, secured through through holes in the platform, which will further reduce vibrations.
This sharpening model has established itself as one of the most resistant to overheating. The belt drive reduces the load on the engine and contributes to smooth operation. A well-thought-out air cooling system provides ventilation of the winding of the asynchronous motor, which prolongs the life of the machine.
Advantages
minimum vibration in operation;
you can fix the base on the workbench;
rubberized handles;
the range of the front and rear sharpening angle is 30º.
Disadvantages
high price;
not available everywhere.
Attention! This material is subjective, is not an advertisement and does not serve as a guide to the purchase. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.