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Bench Grinder Accessories | What to buy next for your bench grinder
A bench grinder is one of those workshop staples that quietly earns its keep. From sharpening and shaping to cleaning up metalwork, it’s a machine many makers rely on regularly. But once you’ve got your grinder set up, the question often follows: what next?
With the right accessories and add-ons, a bench grinder can become more accurate, safer, cleaner and far more versatile. Read our guide to the bench grinder accessories worth considering – and why they make such a difference in everyday use.
Bench Grinder Accessories
Grinding wheels
Most bench grinders come supplied with general-purpose wheels, which are ideal for getting started. But swapping to a wheel better suited to your material or task can dramatically improve results.
- Fine grit wheels for more controlled sharpening
- Coarse grit wheels for faster material removal
- White or aluminium oxide wheels for tool steel, reducing heat build-up
- Specialist wheels for non-ferrous metals or specific applications
Using the right wheel not only improves finish and accuracy—it also helps extend the life of your tools.
Tool rests and sharpening jigs
Upgrading the tool rest is one of the most impactful improvements you can make. A solid, adjustable rest allows you to maintain consistent angles when sharpening chisels, plane irons and other edged tools.
Tool rests offer:
- Greater rigidity
- Finer adjustment
- Better control for repeatable sharpening
For anyone serious about edge tools, this is a worthwhile step.
Sharpening freehand takes practice. Sharpening jigs remove much of the uncertainty, helping you achieve consistent bevels time after time. They’re particularly useful for:
- Woodturning tools
- Chisels and plane irons
- Drill bits and specialist cutters
Whether you’re learning or just want dependable results, a jig can make sharpening quicker and more confidence‑inspiring.
Wheel dressers
Over time, grinding wheels glaze over or lose their true shape. A wheel dresser restores the surface, keeping it flat, sharp and cutting efficiently.
Benefits include:
- Smoother grinding
- Less heat build-up
- Improved accuracy
- Longer wheel life
It’s a small accessory that makes a big difference to performance.
Wire wheels and polishing mops
Bench grinders aren’t just for sharpening. Swapping out a grinding wheel for a wire wheel or polishing mop opens up a whole new range of tasks.
- Wire wheels are ideal for rust removal, cleaning threads and surface prep
- Polishing mops are perfect for bringing up a shine on metalwork
A quick change can turn your grinder into a dedicated cleaning or finishing station.
Dust extraction and clean-up solutions
Grinding creates fine dust and sparks, which can quickly build up around the machine. Simple extraction solutions or nearby clean‑up tools help keep your workspace safer and more pleasant to work in. Keeping dust under control also helps protect both the machine and your lungs.
Final thoughts...
A bench grinder is a solid foundation, but the right accessories unlock its full potential. Whether you’re looking for better sharpening results, safer operation or more versatility from the same machine, a few thoughtful additions can make all the difference.
At Axminster Tools, we believe in helping you get the most from the tools you already own—choosing accessories that genuinely improve accuracy, safety and enjoyment in the workshop. Because when your tools work better, so do you.
