Polishing and buffing are types of finishing process undertaken to smoothen up the surfaces of different metals. An abrasive belt, work wheel or leather strap is used for polishing purpose. Technically, it refers to processes that make use of abrasives which are glued to the work wheel. Buffing, on the other hand, makes use of loose abrasive applied to the work wheel being used. Buffs refer to rubbing objects that usually made up of metal using a soft, dry cloth to make them shine.