Just curious what everyone is using to sharpen bands. I've heard a lot of people dissatisfied with the Cooks "Cat Claw" sharpener, but I have to do something soon, that won't break the bank. It always seems like I get the "right now" job when my bands are dull. Sending them out takes time, and the only local guy I have is a real ass to deal with. He would rather throw a band away, then sharpen it. If it isn't perfect when he gets it, he tosses it away. He sells some off the wall band, that costs twice Woodmizer or Kasco, and the band he sells is total junk. I bought two, to try out, and the first one went dull on the first log; the second one did a little better, but was nothing to write home about.
I know Richard (Cutting Edge) does excellent work and sells a good band, but my lack of organization is forcing me to sharpen my own. The Woodmizer BMTS 50 is a cheap alternative, but haven't heard any reviews yet. Woodmizer of Pa. has told me to expect 20 minutes to sharpen and set a blade (not too bad) but one friend told me to expect 45 minutes until you get good at it. At that rate, I would buy new Kasco and throw away a bad or dull blade. I can make more milling with the limited time I have, and 5k for an automatic sharpener and setter from Woodmizer sounds a little pricey. What do you do with yours? I generally go through 8-15 blades a week, depending upon the time of year, etc.
Thanks, Kojba