Oh, Cal!  This OLDTOOLS post will get a lot of responses because it is SUCH a
matter of individual experience & preference.


The body of your message is about the choice of grinding machines. (Rather than
the choice of the grindSTONE itself)  I'm a bit concerned about getting my
knuckles rapped for being in discussion of tailed apprentices on OLDTOOLS! (I
sent the first version of this off-list, but now I feel the topic is being
accepted by the group.)


My advice: BUY THE BEST, you'll never be dissatisfied with it!  Whatever style
you pick, go for quality.  Solid tools rests are very important, as is a low
run-out arbor.


 If I didn't already have too many grinders, I'd buy one of the gray, top-of-
the-line Made in USA Baldor 1800RPM grinders with stable cast iron tool rests.
These have good safety guards.


Don't think you can't afford quality. You almost certainly can afford a good
used machine.   Craigslist, eBay, local Flea Markets, Yard, and Estate Sales,
etc. You could even plan to own a succession of used machines as upgrades become
available.


I shy away from grinders larger that 6" for sharpening,  because I like the
hollow grind.


That said, my current favorites are a Delta wet-dry combination machine and a
Baldor tool grinder with tilt tables, both from estate sales.  (That last was
SUCH an incredible estate sale find that I would shamelessly gloat about it
except that we don't discuss such things on the Porch !)  The Delta has a 6" dry
wheel and a larger wet wheel.


Learn to mount grinding wheels in the safest manner and how to true them.  The
disintegration of a grinding wheel can result in serious injuries from flying
fragments.  Guards and safety shields must be in place and correctly adjusted at
all times!


Best OLDTOOLS Regards,

John Ruth