Good news /bad news Tulwar.

[katana]

Originally Posted by ward

leave the belt sander for the floor not the sword. you will end up with grooves in the metal

Belt sanders are used by a number of cutlers after the rough shaping (using a grinder) . I suppose if you are familiar with the use of power tools ...then generally it would not be a problem. Belt sanders are available in different widths and can be used for 'finer' work. If you use the finer grades of abrasive paper gouging is not usually a problem....
The suggestion to use such a tool, was to remove the deepest scratches only.

The blade removal is a good idea, and has been discussed before...in case you missed it .....

http://www.vikingsword.com/vb/showthread.php?t=3800

Pukka Bundook what ever you choose to do....please let us know how you get on....All the best

David