I am surprised no one has addressed the differences between the T3 and T7 machines. I have only used the T7, so I really cannot comment on the T3 based on actual experience.
The T3 has a smaller diameter grinding wheel (and leather hone). Instead of a ten inch wheel, it has an eight inch wheel. That would make more of a hollow grind. Whether or not this is a problem in the real world I am not sure. With dry grinders, an eight inch wheel is quite often larger than most.
The housing on the T3 is plastic instead of metal. The implication is that it is less rugged. Tormek seems a very customer oriented company, so I would think a replacement housing would be available at a fair price, if needed.
The T3 is about half the weight of the T7, and noticeably smaller. In a larger shop, this might be a disadvantage. In a small shop, it might actually be a benefit.
I am quite happy with my T7. If I did not have it, I believe I would also be quite happy with a T7.
It would be nice to hear from forum members who have experience with both models.
Ken
The T3 has a smaller diameter grinding wheel (and leather hone). Instead of a ten inch wheel, it has an eight inch wheel. That would make more of a hollow grind. Whether or not this is a problem in the real world I am not sure. With dry grinders, an eight inch wheel is quite often larger than most.
The housing on the T3 is plastic instead of metal. The implication is that it is less rugged. Tormek seems a very customer oriented company, so I would think a replacement housing would be available at a fair price, if needed.
The T3 is about half the weight of the T7, and noticeably smaller. In a larger shop, this might be a disadvantage. In a small shop, it might actually be a benefit.
I am quite happy with my T7. If I did not have it, I believe I would also be quite happy with a T7.
It would be nice to hear from forum members who have experience with both models.
Ken