Masterforce has been upgrading their line of Menards’ exclusive cordless tools with Boost technology—and upgraded electronics and battery package designed to improve performance. We got our hands on the Masterforce Boost angle grinder to see what that means for metalworking.
Pros
- Much better performance than the brushed version
- Anti-kickback sensor
- Electronic speed control(six position)
- Simple guard adjustmemt
Cons
- No electronic brake
Masterforce Boost Angle Grinder Performance
This grinder boasts 9,000 RPM on the top end and a six-speed selector to provides control all the way down to 3500 on the low end. Sometimes we get the question of why does variable speed even matter? Not everyone needs it, but having the option for better control and more precise material removal is nice.
If you’re familiar with the Masterforce lineup, you might notice that this model and the brushed cordless model both have the same 9,000 RPM max. The big difference you’re going to notice is how much better the Boost grinder is at keeping its RPMs up when you apply pressure. Without question, it is capable of cutting, grinding, and polishing much faster.
As expected, this grinder easily handled regular grinding and polishing as well and even made an impressive show of cutting 1/4-inch mild steel plate.
We experienced a few bind-ups as we got used to how much pressure we could put into the cuts and the onboard anti-kickback protection quickly stopped rotation. That kickback control is a nice feature to find on this model. We expect it on premium models, but not every high-value brand makes use of it.
Our testing was all done using a 2.5Ah Boost 20V battery, which performed well overall and kept the weight in check. However, pairing it with either the Boost 5.0Ah or Boost 7.5Ah is the way to go if you have a lot of work lined up for this tool.
Masterforce Boost Angle Grinder Design Notes
Ergonomics
For me, I find the Masterforce boost angle grinder feels solid in my medium-sized hands. The rubber overmold handle is about 1.5 inches wide and 2.25 inches thick, so it’s definitely manageable even if your hands are a bit on the smaller side.
We really like that Masterforce adds a top side handle position to go with its left and right positions to make vertical cutting and grinding easier. The side handle itself has a vibration-reducing design with an isolated section to dampen vibration before it reaches your hand.
Triggered
Masterforce opts for a paddle switch, as opposed to a slide switch. Some brands offer both styles, but this is the only option for this release.
On Guard
Since this 20V grinder is capable of handling both 4 1/2 and 5-inch discs, Masterforce includes two steel guards for regular grinding wheels and plastic slip-covers for safer use with cutting wheels.
Like we expect, the guard is adjustable to get the wheel to engage at whatever work angle you may need. To rotate the guard, pull up on the latch, turn the guard to your desired position, and lock it back.
Like most grinders, there’s a spanner wrench to change wheels. If you happen to lose it or just don’t like using it, check out this video for some alternative ways to swap them out.
Masterforce Boost Angle Grinder Price
You can pick up your very own Masterforce Boost cordless angle grinder for $129.00 at Menards as a bare tool. As of right now, there’s no kit option. If you don’t have a local brick-and-mortar store nearby, they do offer a wide range of shipping options online. Masterforce includes a 3-year manufacturer warranty as well as a 90-day money-back guarantee with this angle grinder.
Masterforce Cordless Angle Grinder Comparison
| 20V Cordless 2410438 | 20V Boost Brushless 2410491 | |
| No-Load Speed | 9,000 RPM | 3,500 – 9,000 RPM |
| Wheel Diameter | 4 1/2 in. | 4 1/2 or 5 in. |
| Motor | Brushed | Brushless |
| Bare Weight | 3.1 lbs | 3.25 lbs |
| Switch | Slide | Paddle |
| Price | $69.99 | $129.00 |
The Bottom Line
Masterforce did more than just offer better performance in the same package with the Boost cordless angle grinder. In addition to its stronger motor, kickback control and speed selection are nice upgrades to have. Best of all, it puts Masterforce into serious consideration in the Prosumer class and is worth checking out for serious DIYers and value-minded Pros.
Click here to explore the entire Masterforce Boost lineup.
Masterforce Boost Angle Grinder Specifications
- Model: Masterforce 2903
- Wheel Diameter: 4 1/2 or 5-inch
- No-Load Speed: 3500 – 9000 RPM
- Arbor Diameter: 5/8 in.
- Electronic Speed Control: Yes
- Variable Speed: Yes
- Removable Side Handle: Yes
- Spindle Lock: Yes
- Weight: 4.31 pounbds(bare), 5.38 pounds(With Boost 2.5Ah 20V battery)
- Length: 12.25 in.
- Warranty: 3 years
- Price: $129.00 bare
