I had a question about various weight sanding belts used for knifemaking? I have a 2"x72" grinder. I have bought belts from a local guy here and I believe the backing is a "J" weight which is a Egyptian cotton cloth light weight and flexible. I am looking at some belts from an Industrial Abrasive company. They are an "X" weight which is also Egyptian cotton cloth but heavy and stiff.
My question is am I better off with the "J" or the "X" weight? I can get either from this place. They claim the "X" will last longer but I wasn't sure if the stiffer weight would be as good , better or worse for grinding? I didn't know if the heavier weight would "contour" as well as the lighter weight. Any experience would be appreciated. Steve

By the way, I will be useing the belts to not only holow grind the 440c SS but also to shape and finish sand the handle material. Steve

Steve, You might want to ask this question in the new knife forum instead of Pow Wow.

Steve,
       I use the stiffer belts while rough grinding and switch to the "J" flex , which are usually made in the finer grits anyway. This fits the natural progression of things. So, I always buy both. I start with 36 (stiff), then 60 (stiff), then 120 ( J flex), 220 J flex, etc. I usually stop grinding at 320 grit and start hand sanding.
                             Lin

Thank you Lin, I can get both weights so I will go with your advice and get them like you said. Steve

I use the same progression as Lin, but after the 120 I switch to the new Gator grits. They are amazingly smooth and last a looooooooooooong time.
Tried them yet, Lin?

Karl,
      Yea, that's what I use too. I'm putting the handle on a camp knife that I have very little hand finishing on. Trizac 100's and 45's
                         Lin

10-Roger.

Where do you guys buy your 2 x 72 belts from as far as best price goes?  
Bret

I like Pop's Knife Supply in Washington, GA.  Nice guy too.  Do a search for his website.

Pop's is good. Also Riverside Machine Shop in Dequeen, Arkansas. Ask for Al.  Lin