T-3 v. Bench Stones

[PLECBJO]

I am thinking of buying my first Tormek grindstone, the T-3 model. Up untill now I have used up to 4000 grit Japanese Bench Waterstones, moderate sucesss, not brillient.
Questions: a) By using the T-3 would that be an improvement on the bench stones?
                 b) Would I get better results, after using the T-3, to finish off using the finer grit Japanese waterstones?
                 c) Is it a good idea to buy a second hand Tormek machine?--'wear & tear', especially with the grindstone? ('Penny wise--pound foolish'.)

Your expertise grately appreciated.
Thank You.

[Herman Trivilino]

Well, if you've had only moderate success with bench stones, then the Tormek may suit you.  I have the equivalent of the T-7 and don't have any experience with the T-3.  I bought mine several years ago and it's a big improvement over bench stones.

The Tormek claims to have a 1000 grit stone when properly graded.  Using the jig, you get a smooth bevel because the angle stays constant.  Using a bench stone takes more skill to keep the angle constant.  But, if you could pull this off, theoretically, you'd get a smoother bevel with the 4000 grit water stone.  I doubt it'd make a difference on any of the knives I use, though.

A used machine can be a good cost-saver.  Check the grind stone diameter to see how much wear it has.  When my machine got old it was in need of a new grind stone and a new main shaft.  These machines are made well and can be repaired quite easily.  I would buy a used machine if it appeared to be well cared for and was available at a good price.  Things I'd look for, in addition to the amount of wear on the grind stone, would be a good-running motor, and a main shaft that's not bent or rusty.

You can read about my repair adventures by following this thread:  Rusty Main Shaft http://forum.tormek.com/index.php?topic=929.0

[PLECBJO]

Hi Herman
Thanks for your info--and an interesting thread: 'Rusty Main Shaft'

Mike