Knife Making Tool Review: Chicago Electric 4-1/2 In. 5 Amp Angle Grinder

I needed an angle grinder for small cutoffs and grinding surfaces clean for forge welding; the problem was that I didn't have the money to buy a bigger name brand just for a new hobby. I use DeWalt and Milwaukee tools at work, so I wasn't expecting much from this tool for just under $20. I can honestly tell you that I was very surprised at how well this little beast worked. Some people complain about how Hazard Fraught's angle grinders bog down too easily. Those people must have gotten a bad one, because mine doesn't slow down even when applying a lot of pressure (which you shouldn't be doing anyway). The guard is strong enough to deflect away any shards from a shattered cutoff wheel (don't ask me how I know), and does it's job as a spark deflector as long as you position it correctly. I found that out after setting a shirt on fire while wearing it. Speaking of cutoff wheels, I bought a multi-pack of flap wheels, cutoff wheels, and a grinding wheel from Harbor Freight. I expected to be out by the end of the first month, but I am just now getting ready to throw away the grinding wheel and my last flap wheel. I ended up taking some of the cutoff wheels to work to use there. If you need wheels, you should really give them a try. The box does include an arbor wrench and 2x extra carbon brushes. I'm sure they will have to be changed at some point, but in almost a year and a half I haven't noticed any audible drop in RPM's. The cord must not be a standard length from the factory, just a ball park. My cord is just under 5 feet, which is plenty for me. The On/Off rocker-catch switch is one of my favorite features, and make it extremely easy to turn the tool on and off. You may bump it with your hand, turning it off, but that is just about my only complaint for this tool. Hands down, for the money you'll spend on it, this is a no-brainer. Check it when you get it home to make sure it runs well, and that there isn't any wobble in the arbor, and if it is defective then take it back.

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