December 2011 – Best Sander Reviews

DEWALT DWP611PK Router Combo Kit

DEWALT DWP611PK 1.25 HP Max Torque Variable Speed Compact Router Combo Kit with LED's

Our Rating: 4.75/5

Routers are very simple but versatile tools. One of the most popular models is the DEWALT DWP611PK Router Combo Kit. It is not the cheapest router on the market but it has a number of good features. Compact size and light weight make the DEWALT DWP611 router easy to use. It is quiet and generates virtually no vibrations.

The DEWALT DWP611PK Router Combo Kit includes both a fixed base trim router, DEWALT DWP611, and a plunge base, DEWALT DNP612. The kit is perfect for most small jobs. For heavy-duty tasks, you are likely to need a larger router. This has only a 1.25 HP motor.

The DEWALT DWP611 Router has a soft-starting motor which uses electronic feedback to maintain motor speed through the cut. It has variable speed control, letting you adjust the speed according to the stocks and bit sizes. A very useful feature are the LED lights on both tools, thanks to them it is easy to see what you are doing. Last but not least, the motor can be transitioned quickly and easily between the fixed and plunge bases, no tools are needed.

Note that the DEWALT DWP611PK Router Combo Kit includes a soft bag, not a hard case. Another thing to be aware of is that the router uses 1/4 bits. No bits are included in the router kit.

The DEWALT DWP611PK Router Combo Kit includes:
– DEWALT DWP611 Variable Speed Compact Router
– DEWALT DNP612 Compact Router Plunge Base
– Fixed Base
– Collet Wrench
– Soft-Sided Bag
– Owner’s Manual

The DEWALT DWP611PK Router Specifications:

Amps	7.0Amps
HP	1.25HP
No Load Speed	16000 – 27000rpm
Collet Diameter	1/4
Plunge Stroke	1.5
Base Dimension	4
Spindle Lock	12 position
Tool Weight	4.1 lbs

Pros
– Compact size and lightweight
– Powerful but quiet
– No vibrations
– LED lights

Cons
– Only 1/4 in. collar router bits can be used

DEWALT DWP611PK Router Combo Kit Owner Review
The customers have given the DEWALT DWP611PK Router Combo Kit a very high rating. It has been one of the best selling routers all the time since 2010, when it was introduced by DEWALT. Thanks to the light weight and good ergonomics, it is easy to use.

Almost all customers have given the DWP611PK Router Combo Kit top rating. It does not really have any significant shortcomings.

At Amazon.com, you can read DEWALT DWP611PK Router Combo Kit customer reviews

DEWALT DWP611PK Router Combo Kit Review Summary

The DEWALT DWP611PK Router Combo Kit gives you an excellent compact and lightweight router, as well as a plunge-base. If you need a router for smaller jobs then the DEWALT DWP611PK Router Combo Kit is certainly worth having a closer look at. Note that for heavy duty, you should go for a more powerful router than the DEWALT DWP611 with its 1.25 HP motor.

You can buy the DEWALT DWP611PK Router Combo Kit at Amazon.com, taking advantage of Amazon’s low prices and excellent customer service. Click here to go to Amazon.com

Our Rating: 4.75/5

Porter-Cable 390K Review

Porter-Cable 390K Random Orbit Sander

Our Rating: 4.25/5

A five-inch random orbit sander is a popular tool for a wide variety of projects. The Porter-Cable 390K low-profile model features a convenient palm grip that is 30 percent shorter than competitors’ products, making it easier to control and reducing fatigue. The Porter-Cable 390K random orbit sander offers variable speed control, which provides the perfect amount of power for a wide range of sanding needs, including smoothing seams, boat-bottom work, coating removal and aggressive sanding work. The electronic motor break reduced spin-down time from 10 seconds to about three seconds, making it much quicker to change pads and get back to work. Another fantastic feature is the integrated dust port, which works with one or 1.5-inch vacuum hoses to remove much of the dust generated by sanding.

Porter-Cable 390K Random Orbit Sander Features:
• Compact, yet powerful enough to take on heavy-duty jobs
• Low-profile design makes it easier to work with and reduces strain
• Variable speed allows for optimal removal rate on any material
• Integrated dust collection system for a cleaner, healthier workspace

The Porter-Cable 390K Random Orbit Sander comes with a 3-year warranty.

What the Customers say about the Porter-Cable 390K Random Orbit Sander
Overall, the customers were pleased with their Porter-Cable Random Orbit Sander, citing its low center of gravity and constant response motor as popular attributes. The constant response motor delivers the right amount of power regardless of how hard or soft the user presses, resulting in an even finish in the shortest amount of time. The break, which allows users to quickly change pads or set the tool down almost immediately after powering it down were also popular features.

The low-profile design was also a popular feature, allowing users to fit the Porter-Cable sander into spaces that typical sanders wouldn’t have fit. Many reviewers also praised this unit for its quieter motor and stated they experienced less hand vibration with the Porter-Cable model than they did with comparable tools.

Although the manufacturer’s information states this sander features a compact head, which makes it easier to grip, several reviewers stated the head was rather large and they had difficulty wrapping their hand around it or using it for long periods of time. This may not be an issue for most users, but for anyone with small hands who needs to use a sander for long periods of time, some additional research, or perhaps a test drive, might be in order.

While several reviewers praised the dust collection system, other pointed out that it is not the most efficient system for removing dust during a sanding project. Also, a hose is required to hook the sander up to an existing vacuum. One reviewer stated he hooked the sander up to his shop vac and it removed more dust than hooking it up to a standard vacuum hose.

A couple of reviewers mentioned that their on/off switches were a bit tricky and that the unit “danced” around on the surface being sanded leaving a bad finish. Most reviewers praised the finish and the unit itself, so it is difficult to say whether these were just faulty units or these really are issues.

Many of the reviewers stated that they own more than one sanding tool, but that the Porter-Cable model has quickly become their favorite go-to tool for all sanding jobs. Its low-profile, compact design, combined with the powerful motor and dust removal system make it a great choice for any workshop.

At Amazon.com you can read Porter-Cable 390K Sander customer reviews.

Porter-Cable 390K Random Orbit Sander Review Summary

If you are looking for a powerful but compact and lightweight random orbit sander, then the Porter-Cable 390K is worth having a closer look at. Additionally, the Porter-Cable 390K random orbit sander is quiet, generates very little vibrations and the dust collection is excellent. You have a number of excellent random orbit sanders to choose from, the Porter-Cable 390K is one of them.

You can buy the Porter-Cable 390K Random Orbit Sander at Amazon.com, taking advantage of Amazon’s low prices and excellent customer service. Click here to go to Amazon.com

Porter-Cable PC250MTK

Our Rating: 4.5/5

Please note that there is a newer model available, the Porter Cable PCE605K, which is even better than the PC250MTK. Here you can find out more about the Porter Cable PCE605K

Whether working in construction or doing odd jobs around the house, there is often a need for a multi-purpose tool to handle a variety of small, yet essential tasks. The Porter-Cable PC250MTK Oscillating Multi-Tool is such a tool. The tool performs a variety of tasks, including cutting wood, drywall and nails; removing grout and caulk; and even sanding. While this tool and others like it are not designed for major projects, it is the perfect solution for the wide range of cutting and sanding jobs that need to be performed while working on major jobs. The Porter-Cable PC250MTK features a powerful motor and variable-speed dial for precision control for all tasks. The tool also boasts a unique tool-free accessory changing system, so users can easily switch out the tool’s accessories between tasks.

Porter-Cable PC250MTK Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit Features
• 2.5 amp motor offers maximum power for smooth cutting
• Kit includes 35 accessories perfect for a variety of sanding, cutting, grinding and scraping needs
• 10-foot power cord allows users to move around freely with the tool
• Tool-free accessory changing system means no bolts or wrenches are needed when switching accessories
• Kit includes the multi-tool, a hard carrying case and 35 accessories, which conveniently store in the case

Porter-Cable PC250MTK Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit Owner Reviews
A variety of people, including contractors and do-it-yourselfers, have a need for a multipurpose tool that can handle smaller jobs. It makes getting things done quicker and eliminates the need to pull out the heavier tools for quick cutting or grinding jobs. Many of the users who reviewed the Porter-Cable 2.5 Amp Oscillating Multi-Tool praised the ease of use and the quick-change accessories. Not needing to drag out tools and spend time changing out blades saved the users time during their building and remodeling projects. This quick-change system, which involves a lever to hold the blade in place, also means there are no nuts that could vibrate loose with extended use, as is the case with comparable tools.

One of the biggest complaints about Porter-Cable’s Multi-Tool is that the Velcro used to attach the sanding pads melts quickly during use. One reviewer pointed out that this is a common problem with all multi-tools, not just the Porter-Cable model, due to the heat of friction during sanding. He adds that there is a video on YouTube that demonstrates how to sand without melting the Velcro. Another reviewer, after having melted the Velcro on his unit, stated he replaced the Velcro with double-sided tape, which held the sanding pads firmly in place.

Several reviewers pointed out that because of the Porter-Cable tool-free accessory changing feature, blades and accessories from other manufacturers will not work with this tool. For those who may need to use specialty accessories, the Porter-Cable Multi-Tool may not be the best choice.

Because Porter-Cable includes 35 of the most commonly used accessories, typical users will find this product powerful and easy to use for a variety of everyday projects. It features a compact design, which allows it to fit into tighter spaces, and provides enough power to tackle a variety of jobs.

Porter-Cable PC250MTK Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit Review Summary

The Porter-Cable PC250MTK Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit gives you excellent value for the money. You get a tool that can be used for a lot of different task. The Porter-Cable PC250MTK is lightweight and it does not generate neither much noise nor vibrations. If you are looking for an oscillating multi-purpose tool, then you should have a closer look at the Porter-Cable PC250MTK.

You can buy the Porter-Cable PC250MTK Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit at Amazon.com, taking advantage of Amazon’s low prices and excellent customer service. Click here to go to Amazon.com

Makita 9903 Belt Sander Review

Makita 9903 8.8 Amp 3-Inch-by-21-Inch Variable Speed Belt Sander with Cloth Dust Bag

Our Rating: 4.75/5

The Makita brand is well-known throughout the power tool community for its quality power tools and the Makita 9903 Belt Sander is no exception. This 8.8 amp variable speed belt sander is the quietest in its class at only 84 decibels, yet it delivers beautiful results on a wide variety of surfaces. This belt sander features a 3 x 12-inch sanding surface with an auto-tracking belt system that keeps track of the belt position, making manual adjustments unnecessary. The system also comes with a cloth dust bag, which removes the majority of the dust generated by sanding. Additional features include a front and rear grip and low-profile design that allows users to sand flush to a wall. The optional sanding shoe allows precise depth control.

The Makita 9903 Belt Sander Features:
• 16.4-foot power cord allows users to use this sander nearly anywhere
• Powerful 8.8 amp motor with variable speed control delivers amazing results on many surfaces
• Two convenient grips and 84 decibel noise output make it easy to use
• Cloth dust bag removes dust as it is generated, reducing the dust in the workspace

Makita 9903 Belt Sander Owner Reviews
The Makita 9903 Belt Sander earned four and a half out of five stars from its reviewers. The majority of reviewers were completely satisfied with this product, listing the auto-tracking system and quietness as two of the most popular features. One reviewer recommended using the purple 3M brand sanding belts for best results, although nearly all of the reviewers commented that the belt stays put and doesn’t need constant adjustments. Reviewers were also pleased with how easy it is to change the belt on the Makita 9903 Belt Sander.

Another handy feature mentioned by several reviewers is that this sander can be flipped over and clamped to a work bench to create a stationary sander. This allows for easy hand-shaping of edges as the user holds the wood in hand and runs it back and forth over the sander as needed.

Many reviewers own or have owned several belt sanders and have stated that the Makita 9903 is by far their favorite sander. Other reviewers have owned a variety of Makita products over the years and were pleased to report that this belt sander live up to the Makita name.

There were only a couple negative reviews about this belt sander and neither one had anything negative to say about the product. The first reviewer who gave it only one star stated that the sander had been used before he purchased it, which was his reason for giving it only one star. The second negative reviewer titled his review “perfect belt sander” and praised the product, yet only gave it one star, so it’s possible his rating was unintentional.

The Makita 9903 Belt Sander is an exceptional belt sander, which is also capable of pulling double duty in the workroom by acting as a stationary sander. Several reviewers stated this unit has replaced all other belt and stationary sanders in their arsenal and customers are very happy with the quality and functionality of the tool.

At Amazon.com you can read Makita 9903 Belt Sander customer reviews. Click here to go to Amazon.com

Makita 9903 Belt Sander Review Summary

The Makita 9903 8.8 Amp 3-Inch-by-21-Inch Variable Speed Belt Sander with Cloth Dust Bag is an excellent sander. It is fairly lightweight but powerful. The Makita 9903 is also quiet and has very good dust collection. It is not the cheapest belt sander but it is one of the best. All in all, the Makita 9903 belt sander gives you very good value for the money.

You can buy the Makita 9903 Belt Sander at Amazon.com, taking advantage of Amazon’s low prices and excellent customer service. Click here to go to Amazon.com