• We’re currently investigating an issue related to the forum theme and styling that is impacting page layout and visual formatting. The problem has been identified, and we are actively working on a resolution. There is no impact to user data or functionality, this is strictly a front-end display issue. We’ll post an update once the fix has been deployed. Thanks for your patience while we get this sorted.

Need a new orbital hand sander, suggestions??

Silenus

Silenus

Senior member
My wife and I want to buy a sander for around the house projects. Small things that need refinishing or whatnot. I will consider either 1/4 sheet or round. What are your preferences?

I need suggestions on what positive features to look for and what brands. I have always had soft spot for DeWalt myself, this primarily because I have an ancient cordless drill that I continue to be impressed with as it is still a power house to this day. I am by no means set on DeWalt though. I will consider any other quality options.

Primary concerns for me are:
1) Good solid quality/reliability. I cannot abide "cheap" tools.
2) A sander that helps isolate vibration from your hand as much as possible will be a big feature.

All else is on the table.
 
I've never used an orbital on wood. So I have a question:
Wouldn't it scratch the grain when used on wood?
 
oldsmoboat said:
I've never used an orbital on wood. So I have a question:
Wouldn't it scratch the grain when used on wood?
Click to expand...

You'll do more noticeable damage going against the grain with your typical belt sander.

Buy whatever orbital sander you want 😛 I've got a good DeWalt one that's lasted 8 years of heavy usage.

03-orbital-sander.jpg


looks a lot like that.

I had a quarter sheet rectangular one that was fantastic (an old Makita) but they used a foam between the bottom plate and the plastic that's attached to the motor. Though it still runs, the foam wore to pieces and fell out and because you can't sand it evenly (the lack of foam in areas created depressions) I had to retire it. If you do get a non-orbital one then make sure it doesn't have the same issue.

I've bought a couple DeWalts, and though they do okay, the dust collecting bag tears easily because of how they do the stitching. Assuming that's not a big issue for you then you needn't worry. But if you're doing heavy sanding then take a look at how the bag is attached to the exhaust.
 
oldsmoboat said:
I've never used an orbital on wood. So I have a question:
Wouldn't it scratch the grain when used on wood?
Click to expand...

No. I use both rotary round pad sanders and orbital 1/4 sheet. Each has their pro's and cons... the round disc sanders are more aggressive with material removal.

"damage" to the the grain is exactly what you are trying to do... You work from 80 to 120 to 180/220 to 320 grit... You don't skip. You end up in the higher grits and you don't get any swirling/sanding marks... You also let the weight of the sander do the work, and change the paper/discs when they need it...

If you press down on the sander, even with a fine grit - you'll leave marks... which will stick out especially if you are staining or dyeing the wood.
 
WackyDan said:
No. I use both rotary round pad sanders and orbital 1/4 sheet. Each has their pro's and cons... the round disc sanders are more aggressive with material removal.

"damage" to the the grain is exactly what you are trying to do... You work from 80 to 120 to 180/220 to 320 grit... You don't skip. You end up in the higher grits and you don't get any swirling/sanding marks... You also let the weight of the sander do the work, and change the paper/discs when they need it...

If you press down on the sander, even with a fine grit - you'll leave marks... which will stick out especially if you are staining or dyeing the wood.
Click to expand...

and don't go too low on your grit if you are staining or dyeing, it will become burnished and be splotchy when you apply the stain. usually go to 220 for my first coat of stain, then 220 again, or one step up for my next coat.

i have rigid circular saw, mini-router, angle grinder, and cordless drill/reciprocating saw and have been super happy with all of them.
 
I am not sure there is much diff between a higher quality random orbit vs the run of the mill ones. Just buy the good velcro sandpaper
 
sdifox said:
I am not sure there is much diff between a higher quality random orbit vs the run of the mill ones. Just buy the good velcro sandpaper
Click to expand...
I thought the same thing until I got my hands on a Festool shopvac and cordless drill at work. Holy crap, they really do work as advertised. The vacuum is quiet as heck with tons of suction and excellent filtration (works great on fiberglass dust). The drill is unlike anything I've used prior. The brushless motor is no gimmick and the electronic "clutch" works perfectly and precisely. Very impressive tools those Germans make!
 
NutBucket said:
I thought the same thing until I got my hands on a Festool shopvac and cordless drill at work. Holy crap, they really do work as advertised. The vacuum is quiet as heck with tons of suction and excellent filtration (works great on fiberglass dust). The drill is unlike anything I've used prior. The brushless motor is no gimmick and the electronic "clutch" works perfectly and precisely. Very impressive tools those Germans make!
Click to expand...

sure, for those things I can see a difference. Random Orbit Sander is pretty low on the tool totem pole though.
 
sdifox said:
sure, for those things I can see a difference. Random Orbit Sander is pretty low on the tool totem pole though.
Click to expand...

Dust collection that actually works makes a huge difference and is easily worth the premium if the tool is used to make money.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

TRENDING THREADS

Back
Top