Sander and Grinder Reviews

We do reviews of corded grinders and sanders, including belt and orbital models and also portable and bench top tools. Our grinder reviews include corded tools from 4.5″ cut off models to larger products with 9-inch wheels. In our search for the best orbital sander and the best belt sander, we attempt to level the playing field by using the same consumables. For grinder reviews we use the same grinding and cutting wheels. Random orbital patterns vary, and grinders have various features like active and passive braking for better safety. We test our grinders using proven methods and time-cutting and grinding tasks to see which models excel. Even drywall sanders make for interesting testing.

Porter Cable PC60TCTAG 4-1/2 Inch Cut-Off Tool and Angle Grinder Kit Review

Porter Cable PC60TCTAG 4-1/2 Inch Cut-Off Tool and Angle Grinder Kit Review

The Porter Cable PC60TCTAG 4-1/2 Inch Cut-Off Tool and Angle Grinder Kit comes equipped to tackle just about any grinding or metal cutting project you can throw at it. Given that two different blade guards are included, one that is optimized for grinding and the other one for cutting, you can be sure that not only can to complete the task at hand but also do it safely. Just to sweetened the deal and get you started on your projects they threw in 5 general purpose grinding wheels and 5 cut off wheels in the box! With 6 amps of power, a compact size and a rock bottom price, we are pretty sure that this is angle grinder combo pack is a winner.

Makita GA4534 4-1/2" Paddle Switch Angle Grinder Preview

Makita GA4534 4-1/2″ Paddle Switch Angle Grinder Preview

Makita announced the new GA4534, engineered with non-protruding brush holders and an innovative motor housing that reduce the barrel diameter to a scant 2-3/16″. In addition, the GA4534 has an ergonomic grip for added comfort, and weighs only 4.2 lbs. for reduced operator fatigue. The side handle is positioned at an increased 20-degree angle for added comfort and control, and the paddle switch has a no lock-on mode for added user preference.

Skil Octo Sander 7302 Preview

Skil Octo Sander 7302 Preview

Skil Power Tools recently launched its new 7302 Octo Multi-Finishing Sander. The novel thing about this particular sander is the presence and inclusion of eight assorted attachments. The options make it uniquely suited to sand hard-to-reach areas and multi-task by hitting multiple surfaces at once, or more effectively sanding particular, or hard-to-reach places. Skil also added something it calls Pressure Control Technology to the 7302. The technology involves a series of pressure control lights that indicate when the user is pressing too hard, too light or just right. It’s a neat idea that is meant to help keep scars and marks off the wood and ensures optimal surface smoothness.

Makita BO5041K 5-inch Random Orbit Sander Quick Look

Makita BO5041K 5-inch Random Orbit Sander Preview

The Makita model BO5041K 5″ Random Orbit Sander is engineered for cabinetry, furniture, wood boats, decks, and general carpentry, and is ideal for carpenters and general contractors seeking a best in class random orbit sander. Model BO5041K includes abrasive paper, dust bag, and tool case (Makita offers a variety of hoses and adapters – sold separately – for attachment to vacuum systems).

Porter-Cable 343VSK 5-Inch Variable Speed Random Orbit Sander Review

Porter-Cable 343VSK Random Orbit Sander Review

When building fine wood work, one of the most critical aspects of the project is the sanding and finishing. Without that perfect finish, the whole project loses its polish. To achieve that ideal finish there are several key factors and one of these has to do with the way it was sanded. To help woodworkers of all levels of craftsmanship achieve a better final product, Porter Cable has come out with a new 5-Inch Variable Speed Random Orbit Sander.

SKIL 5-inch Random Orbital Sander 7492-01 Review

Skil 5 inch Random Orbit Sander 7492-01 Review

Skil has upped the technology of their new 5-inch Random Orbit(al) Sander by adding a microfiltration dust collector and a pressure sensor that tells you when you’re bogging down the motor for too long. It’s a decent machine that seems to borrow a few things from its more expensive cousin, the Bosch ROS10 Palm-Grip Sander while providing most of those features at a much lower cost to the consumer.

Porter Cable PC750AG 7.5 Amp Small Angle Grinder Review

Porter Cable Angle Grinder PC750AG Review

The new Porter Cable PC750AG 7.5 Amp Small Angle Grinder comes in at a low price point, but with many pro features like an all metal gear case, a tough 7.5 amp motor and a comfortable handle design. This angle grinder is part of a new line of tradesmen tools from Porter Cable that aim at bringing quality and features at a sensible price.