Best Bench Grinder for Sharpening Mower Blades

best bench grinder for sharpening mower blades
Photo courtesy Andy / Andrew Fogg via flickr. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Sharpening mower blades is an important part of maintaining your mower and keeping your lawn healthy.

The best bench grinder for sharpening mower blades will make it quick, easy, and safe to recondition those dull blades.

Popular bench grinders on Amazon

SaleBestseller No. 1
DEWALT DW758 8-Inch Bench Grinder
  • 3/4 HP induction motor of the bench grinder provides superior power for industrial grinding applications
  • Rugged cast iron base and motor housing of the 8-inch bench grinder provide durability and prolonged life
  • Table grinder motor runs at 3,600 rpm for high-speed material removal
  • Precision-machined aluminum tool rests allow the user to accurately position work
  • Rear exhaust ports in wheel guards for smoother operation
Bestseller No. 2
WEN BG4276 2.1-Amp 6-Inch Single Speed Bench Grinder with Flexible Work Light, Black,orange
  • 2.1-amp motor turns the 6-by-3/4-inch grinding wheels at speeds of up to 3450 RPM
  • Perfect for reviving old tools, knives, bits and more
  • Flexible work light illuminates your project during operation
  • Includes one 60-grit wheel, one 36-grit wheel, and adjustable eye guards
  • Backed by a two-year warranty
SaleBestseller No. 3
DEWALT Bench Grinder, 6 Inch, 3/4 HP, 3,600 RPM For Larger Grinding Applications(DW756)
  • Powerful 5/8 HP induction motor of the bench grinder is made for heavy-duty grinding operations
  • Industrial cast iron base and motor housing of the 6-inch bench grinder provide durability and prolong life
  • Table grinder motor runs at 3,450 rpm for high-speed material removal
  • Precision-machined aluminum tool rests allow the user to accurately position work
  • Rear exhaust ports in wheel guards for smoother operation
Bestseller No. 4
WEN BG625V 2.5-Amp 6-Inch Variable Speed Bench Grinder with Flexible Work Light , Black
  • 2.5-amp variable speed motor goes anywhere from 2000 to 3400 RPM
  • Perfect for reviving old tools, knives, bits and more
  • Flexible work light illuminates your project during operation
  • Includes one 80-grit wheel, one 36-grit wheel, pivoting tool rests, and adjustable eye guards
  • Backed by a two-year warranty
Bestseller No. 5
WEN BG4282 4.8-Amp 8-Inch Single Speed Bench Grinder with LED Work Lights, 14 x 10 x 11.75 inches, Black and Orange
  • 4.8-amp motor turns the 8-by-1-inch grinding wheels at speeds of up to 3450 RPM
  • Perfect for reviving old tools, knives, bits and more
  • Adjustable eye guards include built-in LED lights to keep your workpiece illuminated
  • Onboard quenching tray helps cool down workpieces during long grinding sessions
  • Includes one 60-grit wheel, one 36-grit wheel, pivoting tool rests, adjustable eye guards, built-in LED lights, and a two-year warranty
Bestseller No. 6
WEN BG4280 5-Amp 8-Inch Variable Speed Bench Grinder with Flexible Work Light, Black,orange
  • 5-amp variable speed motor goes anywhere from 2000 to 3400 RPM
  • Slower speeds maximize precision while high speeds help with fast material removal
  • Adjustable eye guards include built-in LED lights to keep your workpiece illuminated
  • Onboard quenching tray helps cool down workpieces during long grinding sessions
Bestseller No. 7
WEN BG4260 2.1-Amp 6-Inch Single Speed Bench Grinder, Orange,black
  • 2.1-amp motor turns the 6-by-3/4-inch grinding wheels at speeds of up to 3450 RPM
  • Perfect for reviving old tools, knives, bits and more
  • Includes one 60-grit wheel and one 36-grit wheel with 1/2-inch arbors
  • Features pivoting tool rests and adjustable eye guards
  • Backed by a two-year warranty
Bestseller No. 8
WEN Bench Grinder Stand, 32-Inch with Water Pot (4288T), Black
  • Heavy-duty cast iron and steel construction prevents walking and wobbling during operation
  • 9.9-inch by 12.4-inch steel mounting plate accommodates a variety of bolt orientations
  • Measures in at 31.5 inch height with an onboard water pot to cool down projects
  • Compatible with the entire line of WEN Bench Grinders
  • Universal design fits the majority of bench grinders on the market
SaleBestseller No. 9
Delta Power Tools 23-197 8-Inch Variable Speed Bench Grinder, Black,steel
  • Variable speed control offering you convenience and versatility in your grinding, sharpening, buffing and polishing operations
  • Upfront variable speed dial allows you to easily control speeds from 2,000 RPM to 3,400 RPM
  • Features a 5 Amp induction-type motor for powerful performance
  • Incorporates 36 and 60 Grit Wheels for sharpening and grinding
  • The left hand tool rest has a drill bit rest milled into the surface so you'll get the correct angle on the tip at all times
Bestseller No. 10
SKIL 3.0 Amp 8 In. Bench Grinder with Built-in Water Cooling Tray & LED Work Light - BI9502-00
  • BUILT-IN LED WORK LIGHT OVER BROTH WHEELS—Keeps workpiece lit for maximum visibility
  • MAGNIFIED EYE SHIELDS—Ensure better, protected visibility
  • BUILT-IN WATER COOLING TRAY—Provides convenient cooling
  • POWERFUL 3.0 AMP MOTOR—Provides continuous speed for consistent grinding
  • MEDIUM AND COARSE WHEELS—For grinding a variety of material needs

Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Benefits of Sharpening Mower Blades

Using a bench grinder to sharpen your mower blades is an easy, quick and efficient way to keep your lawn in top shape. A sharp blade means cleaner cuts and less stress on the mower, which can lead to improved efficiency and extended motor life. The technique is also incredibly straightforward — all you need are the right size grinding wheel, a strong light source, two gloves and a few pieces of masking tape.

Sharpening mower blades increases the lifespan of both the blades and the lawn overall — leaving each blade dull for too long can sacrifice a lot of grass in its place. When blades are allowed to stay dull for too long, it damages grass by pulling it up instead of cutting it off cleanly. A sharpened blade ensures cleaner cuts that truly protect each individual blade of grass with fewer torn or broken stalks. That means healthier lawns overall that allow homeowners to save money they would have spent replacing problem areas over time.

In addition to preventing unnecessary damage, another major benefit of sharpening mower blades is that they reduce unwanted debris and clippings. When you use a sharpened blade mowing your lawn, there’s less flying debris with fewer clumps or clods left behind on the ground or stuck in your lawnmower bag or bed (or sticking up ominously out of the ground). This saves time on cleanup as well as reducing problems like soil compaction caused by stray clippings mixing with air pockets under the surface soil structure — something all gardeners should want when keeping their turf healthy!

Types of Bench Grinders

A bench grinder is a versatile tool suitable for sharpening mower blades, tools and other objects. Before buying a bench grinder, it is important to consider the different types on offer and which one is most suitable for your particular task. There are two main types of bench grinders – stationary and portable.

Stationary Bench Grinders: A stationary bench grinder consists of two grinding wheels – typically an 8-inch wheel on the left side and a 6-inch wheel on the right side. These two wheels are fixed in place and are driven by either an electric motor or a diesel engine at a constant speed of around 2,500 RPM (revolutions per minute). Stationary grinders typically come with adjustable rests that allow you to secure items you’re working on to either grinding wheel, making them ideal for precise work such as sharpening lawnmower blades or quickly creating mirror finishes in metal objects.

Portable Bench Grinders: Portable bench grinders are smaller than their stationary counterparts but they make up for this with their versatility as they can be taken from job to job site without having to be uprooted from one place. As such, these tools are popular with those who need fast sharpening solutions away from their workshop or garage. Portable grinders use either grinding wheels that have been specially designed for this purpose or heavy duty diamond grinding discs that have tougher abrasive materials embedded in them – both options having the potential to tackle tougher tasks more effectively than traditional abrasive discs used by stationary grinders. They also have adjustable rests which allow them to securely hold items you’re working on like stationary grinders do.

Features to Look for in the Best Variable Speed Bench Grinder

SaleBestseller No. 1
DEWALT DW758 8-Inch Bench Grinder
  • 3/4 HP induction motor of the bench grinder provides superior power for industrial grinding applications
  • Rugged cast iron base and motor housing of the 8-inch bench grinder provide durability and prolonged life
  • Table grinder motor runs at 3,600 rpm for high-speed material removal
  • Precision-machined aluminum tool rests allow the user to accurately position work
  • Rear exhaust ports in wheel guards for smoother operation
Bestseller No. 2
WEN BG4276 2.1-Amp 6-Inch Single Speed Bench Grinder with Flexible Work Light, Black,orange
  • 2.1-amp motor turns the 6-by-3/4-inch grinding wheels at speeds of up to 3450 RPM
  • Perfect for reviving old tools, knives, bits and more
  • Flexible work light illuminates your project during operation
  • Includes one 60-grit wheel, one 36-grit wheel, and adjustable eye guards
  • Backed by a two-year warranty
SaleBestseller No. 3
DEWALT Bench Grinder, 6 Inch, 3/4 HP, 3,600 RPM For Larger Grinding Applications(DW756)
  • Powerful 5/8 HP induction motor of the bench grinder is made for heavy-duty grinding operations
  • Industrial cast iron base and motor housing of the 6-inch bench grinder provide durability and prolong life
  • Table grinder motor runs at 3,450 rpm for high-speed material removal
  • Precision-machined aluminum tool rests allow the user to accurately position work
  • Rear exhaust ports in wheel guards for smoother operation
Bestseller No. 4
WEN BG625V 2.5-Amp 6-Inch Variable Speed Bench Grinder with Flexible Work Light , Black
  • 2.5-amp variable speed motor goes anywhere from 2000 to 3400 RPM
  • Perfect for reviving old tools, knives, bits and more
  • Flexible work light illuminates your project during operation
  • Includes one 80-grit wheel, one 36-grit wheel, pivoting tool rests, and adjustable eye guards
  • Backed by a two-year warranty
Bestseller No. 5
WEN BG4282 4.8-Amp 8-Inch Single Speed Bench Grinder with LED Work Lights, 14 x 10 x 11.75 inches, Black and Orange
  • 4.8-amp motor turns the 8-by-1-inch grinding wheels at speeds of up to 3450 RPM
  • Perfect for reviving old tools, knives, bits and more
  • Adjustable eye guards include built-in LED lights to keep your workpiece illuminated
  • Onboard quenching tray helps cool down workpieces during long grinding sessions
  • Includes one 60-grit wheel, one 36-grit wheel, pivoting tool rests, adjustable eye guards, built-in LED lights, and a two-year warranty
Bestseller No. 6
WEN BG4280 5-Amp 8-Inch Variable Speed Bench Grinder with Flexible Work Light, Black,orange
  • 5-amp variable speed motor goes anywhere from 2000 to 3400 RPM
  • Slower speeds maximize precision while high speeds help with fast material removal
  • Adjustable eye guards include built-in LED lights to keep your workpiece illuminated
  • Onboard quenching tray helps cool down workpieces during long grinding sessions
Bestseller No. 7
WEN BG4260 2.1-Amp 6-Inch Single Speed Bench Grinder, Orange,black
  • 2.1-amp motor turns the 6-by-3/4-inch grinding wheels at speeds of up to 3450 RPM
  • Perfect for reviving old tools, knives, bits and more
  • Includes one 60-grit wheel and one 36-grit wheel with 1/2-inch arbors
  • Features pivoting tool rests and adjustable eye guards
  • Backed by a two-year warranty
Bestseller No. 8
WEN Bench Grinder Stand, 32-Inch with Water Pot (4288T), Black
  • Heavy-duty cast iron and steel construction prevents walking and wobbling during operation
  • 9.9-inch by 12.4-inch steel mounting plate accommodates a variety of bolt orientations
  • Measures in at 31.5 inch height with an onboard water pot to cool down projects
  • Compatible with the entire line of WEN Bench Grinders
  • Universal design fits the majority of bench grinders on the market
SaleBestseller No. 9
Delta Power Tools 23-197 8-Inch Variable Speed Bench Grinder, Black,steel
  • Variable speed control offering you convenience and versatility in your grinding, sharpening, buffing and polishing operations
  • Upfront variable speed dial allows you to easily control speeds from 2,000 RPM to 3,400 RPM
  • Features a 5 Amp induction-type motor for powerful performance
  • Incorporates 36 and 60 Grit Wheels for sharpening and grinding
  • The left hand tool rest has a drill bit rest milled into the surface so you'll get the correct angle on the tip at all times
Bestseller No. 10
SKIL 3.0 Amp 8 In. Bench Grinder with Built-in Water Cooling Tray & LED Work Light - BI9502-00
  • BUILT-IN LED WORK LIGHT OVER BROTH WHEELS—Keeps workpiece lit for maximum visibility
  • MAGNIFIED EYE SHIELDS—Ensure better, protected visibility
  • BUILT-IN WATER COOLING TRAY—Provides convenient cooling
  • POWERFUL 3.0 AMP MOTOR—Provides continuous speed for consistent grinding
  • MEDIUM AND COARSE WHEELS—For grinding a variety of material needs

Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

When shopping for a bench grinder for sharpening mower blades, there are several features to consider. In order to get the best results and longest life out of your grinder, it’s important to choose one that meets your specific needs. Here’s a list of features to look for when shopping for a bench grinder:

Size and Power: Generally speaking, larger grinders are better suited for heavier work and more demanding tasks, whereas smaller grinders are better suited for lighter jobs. For sharpening mower blades, you’re likely to want a size between 8-inches and 10-inches with an adequate amount of power (measured in Watts).

Wheel Size: A larger wheel will allow you to work faster because it covers more surface area. You’ll also want to look for wheels made from good quality materials like aluminum oxide or white aluminum oxide; these materials offer the best performance and won’t corrode over time from exposure to water or other elements.

Bearing Type: Most of the better bench grinders use ball bearings instead of bushings as this prevents wear from vibration and improves accuracy. Make sure the bearings are properly sealed so they stay clean and free from moisture damage longer.

Dust Collection System: If you don’t want metal dust all over your workshop, look for a model with an effective dust collection system like a vacuum or dust port that leads outside. This will keep cleanup quick and easy.

Safety Switch/Shields: Safety is always paramount when dealing with any power tool; therefore make sure that the grinder you select is equipped with basic safety switches/shields such as an off switch, spark guard cap, wheel guard, adjustable shield guards on all four sides of the wheel etc.

Safety Tips for Using the Best Slow Speed Bench Grinder for Sharpening

When operating a bench grinder for sharpening mower blades, it’s important to take safety precautions. A bench grinder is a powerful tool that generates sparks and debris and can cause eye, respiratory or hearing damage if not used properly. It’s important to wear the proper safety equipment, including safety glasses and ear plugs or muffs; long pants, shirt sleeves and closed-toe shoes should also be worn.

Before starting work on the mower blade, unplug the grinder and make sure to clear away any nearby objects from the work area. Make sure that the grinding wheel is firmly attached to the machine; loose pieces may interfere with operation or cause injury as you work. Inspect all pieces of your bench grinder before use; check for damage in the motor housing area, frayed power cords, cracked shields and worn wheels before proceeding.

In addition to ensuring that all pieces are securely connected and working properly, it’s also important to select the right type of grinding wheel for your needs. Check with your manufacturer or retailer when selecting a grinding wheel; they can provide advice on finding one that is designed specifically for sharpening blades safely and effectively.

Finally, whenever possible test-run any used equipment before beginning work on an item such as a mower blade so you have full assurance of proper performance in advance. Taking these measures will ensure your safety when operating a bench grinder for sharpening mower blades.

SaleBestseller No. 1
DEWALT DW758 8-Inch Bench Grinder
  • 3/4 HP induction motor of the bench grinder provides superior power for industrial grinding applications
  • Rugged cast iron base and motor housing of the 8-inch bench grinder provide durability and prolonged life
  • Table grinder motor runs at 3,600 rpm for high-speed material removal
  • Precision-machined aluminum tool rests allow the user to accurately position work
  • Rear exhaust ports in wheel guards for smoother operation
Bestseller No. 2
WEN BG4276 2.1-Amp 6-Inch Single Speed Bench Grinder with Flexible Work Light, Black,orange
  • 2.1-amp motor turns the 6-by-3/4-inch grinding wheels at speeds of up to 3450 RPM
  • Perfect for reviving old tools, knives, bits and more
  • Flexible work light illuminates your project during operation
  • Includes one 60-grit wheel, one 36-grit wheel, and adjustable eye guards
  • Backed by a two-year warranty
SaleBestseller No. 3
DEWALT Bench Grinder, 6 Inch, 3/4 HP, 3,600 RPM For Larger Grinding Applications(DW756)
  • Powerful 5/8 HP induction motor of the bench grinder is made for heavy-duty grinding operations
  • Industrial cast iron base and motor housing of the 6-inch bench grinder provide durability and prolong life
  • Table grinder motor runs at 3,450 rpm for high-speed material removal
  • Precision-machined aluminum tool rests allow the user to accurately position work
  • Rear exhaust ports in wheel guards for smoother operation
Bestseller No. 4
WEN BG625V 2.5-Amp 6-Inch Variable Speed Bench Grinder with Flexible Work Light , Black
  • 2.5-amp variable speed motor goes anywhere from 2000 to 3400 RPM
  • Perfect for reviving old tools, knives, bits and more
  • Flexible work light illuminates your project during operation
  • Includes one 80-grit wheel, one 36-grit wheel, pivoting tool rests, and adjustable eye guards
  • Backed by a two-year warranty
Bestseller No. 5
WEN BG4282 4.8-Amp 8-Inch Single Speed Bench Grinder with LED Work Lights, 14 x 10 x 11.75 inches, Black and Orange
  • 4.8-amp motor turns the 8-by-1-inch grinding wheels at speeds of up to 3450 RPM
  • Perfect for reviving old tools, knives, bits and more
  • Adjustable eye guards include built-in LED lights to keep your workpiece illuminated
  • Onboard quenching tray helps cool down workpieces during long grinding sessions
  • Includes one 60-grit wheel, one 36-grit wheel, pivoting tool rests, adjustable eye guards, built-in LED lights, and a two-year warranty
Bestseller No. 6
WEN BG4280 5-Amp 8-Inch Variable Speed Bench Grinder with Flexible Work Light, Black,orange
  • 5-amp variable speed motor goes anywhere from 2000 to 3400 RPM
  • Slower speeds maximize precision while high speeds help with fast material removal
  • Adjustable eye guards include built-in LED lights to keep your workpiece illuminated
  • Onboard quenching tray helps cool down workpieces during long grinding sessions
Bestseller No. 7
WEN BG4260 2.1-Amp 6-Inch Single Speed Bench Grinder, Orange,black
  • 2.1-amp motor turns the 6-by-3/4-inch grinding wheels at speeds of up to 3450 RPM
  • Perfect for reviving old tools, knives, bits and more
  • Includes one 60-grit wheel and one 36-grit wheel with 1/2-inch arbors
  • Features pivoting tool rests and adjustable eye guards
  • Backed by a two-year warranty
Bestseller No. 8
WEN Bench Grinder Stand, 32-Inch with Water Pot (4288T), Black
  • Heavy-duty cast iron and steel construction prevents walking and wobbling during operation
  • 9.9-inch by 12.4-inch steel mounting plate accommodates a variety of bolt orientations
  • Measures in at 31.5 inch height with an onboard water pot to cool down projects
  • Compatible with the entire line of WEN Bench Grinders
  • Universal design fits the majority of bench grinders on the market
SaleBestseller No. 9
Delta Power Tools 23-197 8-Inch Variable Speed Bench Grinder, Black,steel
  • Variable speed control offering you convenience and versatility in your grinding, sharpening, buffing and polishing operations
  • Upfront variable speed dial allows you to easily control speeds from 2,000 RPM to 3,400 RPM
  • Features a 5 Amp induction-type motor for powerful performance
  • Incorporates 36 and 60 Grit Wheels for sharpening and grinding
  • The left hand tool rest has a drill bit rest milled into the surface so you'll get the correct angle on the tip at all times
Bestseller No. 10
SKIL 3.0 Amp 8 In. Bench Grinder with Built-in Water Cooling Tray & LED Work Light - BI9502-00
  • BUILT-IN LED WORK LIGHT OVER BROTH WHEELS—Keeps workpiece lit for maximum visibility
  • MAGNIFIED EYE SHIELDS—Ensure better, protected visibility
  • BUILT-IN WATER COOLING TRAY—Provides convenient cooling
  • POWERFUL 3.0 AMP MOTOR—Provides continuous speed for consistent grinding
  • MEDIUM AND COARSE WHEELS—For grinding a variety of material needs

Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

FAQ: Sharpening Lawn Mower Blades with Grinders

Keeping your lawn mower blades sharp is essential for maintaining a healthy and attractive lawn. However, many people are unsure about the best way to sharpen their mower blades. In this FAQ, we’ll answer some of the most common questions about using grinders to sharpen lawn mower blades, including what kind of grinder to use, what size angle grinder is best, and what grinder is best for sharpening worn edges on cutting tools.

Can you use a bench grinder to sharpen mower blades?

Yes, a bench grinder is a popular tool for sharpening lawn mower blades. With the right setup and technique, you can achieve a sharp and even edge on your blades. To use a bench grinder, you will need to secure the blade in a vice or clamp to prevent it from moving during sharpening. Then, use the grinder to remove any nicks or dull spots on the blade, being careful not to overheat the metal.

What kind of grinder do you use to sharpen a lawn mower blade?

There are several types of grinders that can be used to sharpen lawn mower blades, including bench grinders, angle grinders, and belt sanders. Bench grinders are popular due to their ease of use and affordability, while angle grinders can be useful for sharpening blades that are deeply pitted or corroded. Belt sanders are best for grinding out chips or uneven edges on mower blades.

What size angle grinder for sharpening mower blades?

The size of angle grinder you need for sharpening mower blades will depend on the size of the blade itself. For most residential lawn mower blades, a 4.5-inch angle grinder is sufficient. However, for larger commercial-grade blades, a 7-inch angle grinder may be necessary.

What grinder is best for sharpening worn edges on cutting tools?

If you need to sharpen worn edges on cutting tools, such as axes or machetes, a belt sander is often the best tool for the job. Belt sanders allow you to quickly remove material and achieve a sharp and even edge on your tools. However, it’s important to use caution when sharpening cutting tools, as they can be dangerous if mishandled.

The best angle grinder wheel for sharpening mower blades can be a bit dangerous. A good bench mounted grinder to sharpen lawn mower blades and cutting tools can be an effective way to maintain sharp and effective equipment. By choosing the right grinder for the job and using it with care and precision, you can achieve excellent results and keep your lawn looking its best. If you’re unsure about how to sharpen your mower blades or other cutting tools, consult with a professional or experienced user for guidance. With the right tools and technique, you can achieve a sharp and even edge on all of your cutting equipment.

Find the best bench grinder for sharpening lawn mower blades on Amazon.