I bought a 1/2" wide hand held belt sander with a pivoting head.  Do any of you guys use a sander like this?  If so what for.  I thought it would be useful for small blades, cleaning up handles etc.  what do you guys think?

I see you're not getting a response. I think I know the sander you mean. I have tried about every way to sand and I cant think of a use for that. I buy shop rolls (2 inch)and rip them if they are too wide. Then I use backing sticks to suit the purpose. Some are hard and some have leather glued on it. These are used on every knife, even the handles.

I just used it to polish a bit and finish a grind.  Worked pretty well.  I'll try your method next Lin.  I value your advice.  You make beautiful knives.

Also,  its called a band file.

I have seen it used at work to clean paint and rust in a narrow spot before a welding repair is made. Its uses are limited but then it is a specialized tool. Anything can be adapted for multiple uses. You just need to learn the technique. I would be hesitant to use it on a knife project getting close to being finished since it could put a gouge in the material very easy.