This is a catalog cut from around 1880 showing the first style of the Barnes grinder. It was a round belt model that used the same base as the early round belt former and the early #2 scroll saw.
Early W F & John Barnes Grinder
This is the second style which changed the design and began using “belt gearing”, a flat belt with holes punched in it that engaged small “tips” in the small drive pulley.
This is a nice second style example in very good condition. Of note, this later model grinder was the only foot powered machine made by Barnes that we are aware of that used ball bearings. They were in the lower pedal. More on that when we get into the restoration of another Barnes grinder below.
Original WF & John Barnes grinder – second type
Here is the grinder that is being restored. As mentioned above, these used individual ball bearings in a chase that was cast into the frame with a bearing cap to hold them in. This one has what appears to be some type of add on set of ball bearings for the big flywheel. More to come on this restore.
WF & John Barnes grinder that has been modified by the owner.