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. For sanders, we cover products from the small Festool Rotex sander to larger belt and orbital sanders. We turned our Pros on the Makita GA5042C 5 in. grinder and also the Bosch OS50VC 1/2-sheet orbital finishing sander. The results gave us good impressions of what these tools could do in the field. Sanders and Grinder Reviews In comparing various sanders 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.
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).
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 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.
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.
Most seasoned woodworkers know that random orbit sanders beat the socks off of any vibrating or palm sander and Delta just released their new 5†and 6†random orbit sanders!
Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation announces a new line of high performance small angle grinders that deliver the power, electronic features and productivity industrial users demand. With this introduction of eight new high performance grinders, in addition to the seven models launched in November, Milwaukee extends its commitment to industrial metalworking.
The Rockwell 5″ vibrafree Random Orbit Sander RK4245K has a number of unique features that help to set it apart from other sanders. Featuring Rockwell’s active vibration canceling technology, this sander reduces user fatigue by cutting the vibration by 50%. This is achieved though the two counter acting sanding pad surfaces that are always spinning in opposite directions.
With over a decade since the last one, Craftsman has once again come out with a new Oscillating Spindle Sander. With an attractive price tag, solid cast iron table top and convenient storage of all accessories in the base, this is a great addition to anyone’s collection of bench top power tools.
The Ryobi HPL51K electric hand planer is a budget tool that includes some very nice features such as a left/right dust ejection dial, adjustable depth knob and blade-protecting kick stand. This tool really enables easy planning of uneven surfaces – up to 3/32″ in a single cut – and even performs edge and rabbet cuts with the included edge guide.
We found the Hitachi G12SR3 4-1/2 inch 6 amp angle grinder to be an easy to use tool that should be at the top of any handyman’s short list. Price, performance and ease of use make this an easy pick for someone looking to grab a flexible tool that can be used in tile, metalwork or concrete applications.
