What can I use instead of a belt grinder?

Belt grinders are a great tool for hobbyist knife makers but can be cost prohibitive. You don’t need a belt grinder to shape your blade, though it does speed up the process. Instead, a good set of files and sandpaper with a range of grits with get the same job done. Though if you do find some extra change in your couch, you can pick up a 1 x 30 (W x L) from a place like Harbor Freight or online. If you’re going to go the full way, grab yourself a high-quality 2 x 72.