Porter-Cable 343K 5-Inch Random Orbit Sander Kit - Hook & Loop Pad Review

I owned a Black and Decker finish sander that I always used to sand from 80 grit to 220.I noticed that it was taking so long, and then finally I broke my sander.So I bought a Makita BO3700 finish sander (excellent finish sander!!!), but it is a finish sander, not a tool mark remover.So for the last few projects, I've been scraping, then hand sanding until I was ready for 180-220 grit final sanding.Normally this used to take me hours.So much so that I started regretting woodworking (GOD forbid!!!).So after reading some reviews of this, and may other random orbit sanders, I decided to take a chance, and buy one.
Well, after many reviews, I opted for the Porter Cable 343K.I also bought some Norton paper, in 60/100/150 grit.After tapering some table legs, I loaded it with 60 grit, and started sanding.I was amazed how fast the burn marks (cherry), and saw marks sanded out, with no swirl marks!!After going through all the grits to 150, I decided to grab my Makita, and finish it out.All the tool marks were gone, all the scratches were gone, and I finished my legs, and aprons (4each) in 1 hour!!I'm currently gluing up the frame, and will final sand again in 220, then apply my finish.I can't believe go fast, and how thorough this P/C sander works, but then again, it's a Porter Cable.I think I'm going to order some of the Mirka paper on Amazon.In a previous career, I used to sell Mirka, and all the body shops always told me how great the Mirka paper was.Looks like I'm gonna find out on my next project!!!Don't hesitate to order one of these, it is a great sander!!!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Porter-Cable 343K 5 Inch Random Orbit Sander Kit - Hook & Loop Pad

Product Description:
Capable of producing fine, swirl-free results on a variety of surfaces, the Porter-Cable 343K Five-Inch Random-Orbit Sander Kit won't put excessive stress on your muscles and joints. Ideal for professional woodworkers and hobbyists alike, this compact tool has a comfortable, ergonomic design, and it supplies the perfect amount of power for surface smoothing.

The Porter-Cable 343K Random-Orbit Sander Kit
At a Glance:

3-Amp motor
3/32-inch orbit diameter
POREX dust canister; dual dust ports
Improved ergonomics
Easy to clean/service

Soft rubber grip minimizes discomfort and vibration.

Removable cap makes clean-up easy. Ergonomic Design for High-Quality Results
Powered by a robust three-amp motor, the 343K handles a range of furniture, cabinetry, trim, and hobby work.
This sander features a soft rubber grip that minimizes discomfort and vibration, even at awkward angles. For added convenience, an enlarged plastic hood over the pad gives you the ability to access tight corners without damaging the pad or the workpiece.
Additionally, the 343K has an automatic brake that engages when the unit is set down. And cleanup and maintenance are never a problem due to the removable cap that allows you quick access to the interior.
Measuring just 12.0 x 6.25 x 5.0 inches (WxHxL) and weighing only four pounds, this sander is easy to handle and hold, ultra-portable, and a snap to store. It's also backed by a one-year warranty, and conveniently uses readily available five-inch, eight-hole hook-and-loop paper.
Efficient Dust Collection Improves Work Conditions
The 343K offers unique dust collection with a POREX dust canister and dual dust ports that can accommodate 1.0-inch and 1.5-inch vacuum hoses. This system helps improve both visibility and work conditions by clearing dust and debris that can mar your material or work surface and potentially compromise your health. For additional peace of mind, the porous polyethylene dust canister is more durable than cloth dust bags, which means you get more secure collection.
What's in the Box
343KR Random-Orbit Sander Kit; operating manual; and carrying case.



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Makita BO5030K 5-Inch Random Orbit Sander Review

I have several of Makitas Random orbit sanders and they just keep getting better! I have "Other" major brands ... none come close to the ease of operation and fast uniform removal of material. The Makita service center is always there with the correct part and on time when in need of a part. I use my sanders almost daily in my work so a good sander is mosst important to me. You can't go wrong with any Makita product!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Makita BO5030K 5 Inch Random Orbit Sander

Product Description:
Makita's 5-Inch Random Orbit Sander, Model BO5030K, delivers fast, smooth performance with better grip and control. The BO5030K is ideal for woodworkers and finish carpenters who require a best-in-class random orbit sander.

View largerBO5030K FeaturesPERFORMANCE - 1/8" random orbit action

SPEED - 3.0 AMP motor rotates pad 12,000 OPM for fast and smooth sanding

CONVENIENCE - Uses hook-and-loop abrasive discs for quick changes

EFFICIENCY - Efficient through-the-pad dust collection system

INCLUDES - Abrasive disc, dust bag and tool case
Tool SpecificationsPad size4-13/16"Abrasive disc size5"No load speed12,000 OPMOrbit diameter1/8"AMPS (115V)3.0Overall length6"Net weight2.9 lbs.The BO5030K features a pad control system for controlled pad speed upon start up, with a powerful 3 AMP motor for continuous operation, 1/8-inch random orbit action, and 12,000 OPM for fast and smooth sanding. The BO5030K is precision engineered with all ball bearing construction for longer tool life.
Comfort and ease-of-use features include an ergonomically designed rubberized palm that fits like a glove with even pressure and easy control. The rubber sealed switch minimizes dust contamination and increases durability. The efficient through-the-pad dust collection system helps provide a cleaner work environment, while the fabric dust bag has an extra wide mouth for faster disposal. The BO5030K uses quick-change five-inch eight-hole hook-and-loop abrasive disc.
Model BO5030K includes abrasive disc, dust bag and tool case. It is ideal for a wide range of sanding applications. The BO5030K is just another example of Makita's commitment to innovative technology and best-in-class engineering.
About Makita's Power Tools
Makita delivers precision, accuracy, capacity, and innovation to woodworkers. Makita has full range of miter saws, jig saws, circular saws, routers, planers, sanders, nailers and staplers, blades, compact cordless drills and impacts, and more. Makita's woodworking solutions are engineered for pro contractors, for use in high production settings and in home shops.
About Makita
Makita is a worldwide manufacturer of industrial quality power tools and offers a wide range of industrial accessories. Makita applies leading-edge innovation to engineer power tools that are more compact and energy efficient, yet deliver industrial strength power and results. Makita U.S.A., Inc. is located in La Mirada, California, and operates an extensive distribution network located throughout the U.S. For more information, please call 800/4-MAKITA (800/462-5482) or visit makitatools.com. Makita is Best in Class Engineering.
Warranty
Every Makita tool is thoroughly inspected and tested before leaving the factory. If you are not satisfied with any Makita tool within 30 days of purchase, return it and Makita will provide a replacement or refund. Each Makita tool is warranted to be free of defects from workmanship and materials for the period of ONE YEAR from the date of original purchase. Should any trouble develop during this one-year period, return the COMPLETE tool, freight prepaid, to one of Makita's Factory or Authorized Service Centers. Please see makitatools.com for complete details.
Whats in the Box
Makita BO5030K 5-Inch Random Orbit Sander, abrasive disc, dust bag and tool case.



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Bosch ROS20VSK 120-Volt Variable Speed Random Orbit Sander Kit Review

Bosch has hit a home run with this great redesign of an already great tool.This is an update of the popular Bosch 1295DVS(Variable Speed) random orbit sander.The Bosch 1295 was rated the best value AND the best overall random orbit sander in the August 2006 issue of Fine Woodworker magazine.It beat out the equivalent Festool, DeWalt, Makita, Craftsman, Rigid, Ryobi, and Porter-Cable.

I bought the ROS20VSKfor $69.97 +tax at a big box retailer.I used the 1295DVS several months ago and now this one for a few weeks. They are very similar in performance. Same smooth start-up and great motion yet relatively low vibration and easy to control. Same vigorous removal of material but with a very even, smooth pattern. I'd like to see a side by side performance test of the ROS20VS and the 1295DVS because their internals are somewhat different, the most significant of which is the ROS20VS's less powerful motor.

The visible differences in this model are the features that were the biggest complaints from reviews of the 1295DVS.Bosch seems to have been listening: dust collection, sanding pad durability and ergonomics are all improved.

Ergonomics - The top has been given more form and elongated, similar to other random orbitals, but Bosch has made it's "tail" a bit more substantial than most. I thought it might get in the way and make it clunky but it doesn't. The shape allows for solid two handed sanding if needed and many other secure & comfortable hand holds.The variable speed dial has been moved to the back so there is no chance of accidentally adjusting it. Molded rubber has been added to all the right places for hands. There is even a small patch of rubber in the back above the dust port that is prefect extra grip for an index finger or thumb.

Sanding Pad - It comes with a standard soft backing pad with patented "Hook-Tight" backing.Bosch claims these extra tiny velcro hooks are more durable and thus make the pad last a lot longer.They also say it holds discs better and doesn't get clogged with dust as easily.My first use tells me the latter two claims are right.Time will tell on the pad's durability. The hooks are quite tiny, much more so than on any other hook & loop sander I've seen.(see picture above)Also... good feature: Bosch offers optional extra-soft pads for polishing and hard pads for finish removal... very thoughtful feature: Bosch provides space in the case for one of these optional pads.

Dust Collection - It seems a common complaint of the 1295DVS was its lack of an included vacuum attachment.If you wanted one, you had to shell out another $10.With this sander a vacuum hose attachment is included, it fits both 1 1/4 or 1 1/2 " vacuum hoses, and there is a special space for it in the case.Also, the dust outlet port is no longer a weird oblong shape but a 19mm cylinder with a rubber o-ring so you can use it directly with a Bosch hose if you have one.

The on-board dust collector has a larger translucent canister and comes off easily with a twisting motion.Because of the o-ring, it seals back on air-tight. It also has an easy to remove pop-off top with a pleated paper filter. (The filter is welded to the plastic top so a replacement filter would include a new top; the manual stresses not to wash the filter, dry clean only.) This collector is great for small jobs but it is so good at sucking up dust, you have to empty it regularly especially when using coarse grits. Having a vacuum attached is the way to go for bigger jobs.

No big complaints so far. Bosch has made a great sander better and when you add the case that has room for accessories and a bunch of discs, I think this is the best 5" variable speed random orbit sander in it's class... certainly the best deal.

--- UPDATE September '08 --- This sander has gone up in price since being introduced.(exchange rate) It's still worth every penny though. I have come to love the on-board dust collector; it is awesome! Very little wood dust escapes the powerful suction created. You must empty it regularly!!! If you don't, dust can block the filter and a large amount of air is forced back out through the pad's holes causing an undetectable air-cushion.I've found that this reverse air pressure can cause the disc to be released from the pad's hooks (too much dust collection is a nice problem to have).

--- June '09 --- Still running strong & smooth. At 5" and 2.2 amps, this efficient sander is, by nature, a finish sander. There are other types of sanders for other uses. That said, with 50 or 80 grit, this sander will tear through old finish, raised grain, scratches and cut marks... smoothly. If you plan to do a lot of coarse grit sanding, the hard sanding pad (Bosch Part No. RS035) improves performance substantially.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Bosch ROS20VSK 120-Volt Variable Speed Random Orbit Sander Kit

Product Description:
The Bosch ROS20VSK 5-Inch Variable Speed Palm-Grip Random Orbit Sander Kit comes with everything you need to start sanding right out of the box. The integral pad damening system prevents swirl marks in the wood. The twist off dust canister is see through so you can tell right away when the canister is full. The microfiber system keeps particles down as small as 1/2-micron in diameter. The microcellular backing pad further enhances the finish quality of the wood. Features:Twist-Off Dust Canister - Durable, compact canister shows dust level and easily detaches Bosch Microfiber System - Optimal on board system for filtering fine dust, traps particles as small as 1/2-micron in diameter Hook-Tight Hook and Loop Disc Attachment - Over 35,000 long-life hooks ensure firm grip of disc Random Orbit Sanding Action - Combination of pad orbit and rotation deliver well-blended, ultra smooth finish with fast removal rate Soft Microcellular Backing Pad - Pliable pad ensures a smooth, fine finish on flat or contoured surfaces Integral Pad Dampening System - Pad braking system prevents swirl marks Variable-Speed Dial - Allows match of speed to workpiece and task Comfortable Soft-Grip Top and Body - Multiple grip positions to prevent hand fatigue Low-Vibration Design - Engineered for smooth running and user comfort Anti-Spillback Canister Design - Minimizes dust spillback into sander Uses Industry-Standard 8-Hole 5-inch Hook & Loop Discs - Compatible discs are widely availableWhat's In The BoxBosch ROS20VSK Factory Reconditioned 5-Inch Variable Speed Palm-Grip Random Orbit Sander Soft Sanding Pad - RS034 Microfilter Dust Canister - 2609199179 Vacuum Hose Adapter - VAC002 Sanding Disc Carrying Case

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Black & Decker MS1000 Cyclone 1.4 Amp Orbital 4-in-1 Multi Sander Review

This sander is awesome.It is very versital.The orbital sanding attachment strips paint away.The finger tool gets into the hard to get corners really well.It is a lot quieter than the ryobi sander I have and way more functional.The cyclonic dust filter is great as well.Not nearly as much saw dust flying around.I am in the process of refinishing kitchen cabinetry from white paint to a natural finish.This sander is great.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Black & Decker MS1000 Cyclone 1.4 Amp Orbital 4-in-1 Multi Sander

Product Description:
Meet all of your sanding needs with the Black & Decker MS1000 Cyclone 1.4-Amp Orbital 4-in-1 Multi Sander. This versatile sander features four interchangeable bases for different sanding functions: random orbit sanding removes material quickly; finish sanding creates a smooth surface; 90-degree flush sanding efficiently sands along edges; and detail sanding works in hard-to-reach spots. And with its lightweight build and ergonomic grips, the sander is easy and comfortable to use. Cleaning is a cinch, too, with the sander's dust collection system and translucent, easy-to-open canister, and its hook-and-loop sandpaper system makes paper changes quick and simple. The sander also includes nine assorted accessories for further sanding versatility. It's backed by a 2-year warranty.

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Factory-Reconditioned Skil 7300-01-RT Octo Multi-Finishing Sander with Bag Review

I have 3 other sanders, but this one is perfect for most of the projects I work on. It is easy to operate and gets the job done quickly.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Factory-Reconditioned Skil 7300-01-RT Octo Multi-Finishing Sander with Bag

Product Description:
The SKIL Octo Multi-Finishing Sander is an innovative and versatile sander capable of getting into places orbital sanders can't, but also places where hand sanding fails to complete the job. Eight different sanding attachments tackles a different surface contour. The primary delta attachment sits in plane with the bottom of the tool to complete a Velcro pad that is in the shape of a clothes iron, essentially turning the tool into an orbital sander with the capability of getting right into a corner.

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Milwaukee 6020-21 1/4-Sheet Orbital Sander Review

I have been a wood worker for 30 years and decided to try out the new 1/4 Sheet Sander that Milwaukee recently added to their line.I am amazed by how good this sander feels in your hand, Milwaukee obviously put a lot of thought in the grip. It has everything that you would like in a 1/4 sheet sander --- soft start, plenty of power, vacuum ports, pad cushioning and break.Do yourself a favor and try one of these sanders out, you will not be disappointed!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Milwaukee 6020-21 1/4-Sheet Orbital Sander

Product Description:
The Milwaukee 6020-21 1/4 Sheet Random Orbit Palm Sander features a 3.0 amp permanent magnet motor with 14,000 orbits per minute. This powerful, light weight motor produces dependable speed and power. The pad cushioning and break reduces swirl marks and ensures a smoother finish. The The Milwaukee 6020-21 1/4 Sheet Random Orbit Palm Sander also has a tactile rubber top and body along with a narrow sander body. This ergonomic design provides added comfort and control and reduces user fatigue from any angle. Large paper clamp tabs allow for effortless paper changes. The integrated vacuum ports support 1-1/4" or 2-1/4" I.D. vacuum attachments. The Milwaukee 6020-21 1/4 Sheet Random Orbit Palm Sander also has an in-line dust port with flexible dust collection bag to capture the maximum amount of dust without compromising site line. This sander also features a removable top for easy service and brush replacement.

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Milwaukee 6021-21 Random Orbit Palm Sander with dust collection bag Review

The 5yr warranty and extra sanding disk plus a case make this sander a great value. This sander runs very smooth and quiet compared to the sander being replaced. The switch is located properly varaible speed dial is smooth. Very important my hand doesn't cover the upper motor vents when operating it to prevent overheating the motor. Unfortunately some of the other sanders were designed poorly.
The dust bag connector is designed better and is more secure than other brands that vibrate loose. It's not difficult to remove either. My vacuum hose fits well on the sander too. (My vac fitting is rubber.)
I read physically compared the comfort and design of many random orbital sanders in stores. I read reviews and complaints about many sanders. Most complaints were about vibration, poor quality dust cannisters/bags.
Finally I decided to read the sanders specs, warranties, weight, amperage for effeciency, orbit size myself. I even looked at parts breakdown of each sander to avoid expensive repairs resulting from complicated designs. I read somewhere that heat eventually destroys hook & loop. Most replacement pads cost $20-$30 depending on Mfg. I will prob use PSA discs since they can be a bit cheaper and buy a favorite backup pad before sander models change.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Milwaukee 6021-21 Random Orbit Palm Sander with dust collection bag

Product Description:
Milwaukee's Random Orbit Palm Sander produces a fine, swirl-free finish. The permanent magnet motor produces dependable speed and power and features electronic soft start and a variable speed dial. Designed for comfort with a tactile rubber top and body grip surface and a narrow sander body. Amps: 3, Variable Speed: Yes, Disc Diameter (in.): 5, Wheel Diameter (in.): 5, OPM: 7,000 - 12,000, Tool Length (in.): 5 1/2, Tool Weight (lbs.): 3.3 lbs., Case Included: Yes, Dust Bag Included: Yes

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Makita BO4556K 2.0 Amp 4-1/2-Inch Finishing Sander w/Case Review

This is a high quality professional quality tool. The enclosed switch is a feature that protects the product from dust. This feature was not available on earlier models. It will take a 8.5 X 11 sheet after you divide the sheet into 4 pieces. This is more econmical than buying pre cut sheets.Makita BO4556K 2.0 Amp 4-1/2-inch Finishing Sander w/Case

Click Here to see more reviews about: Makita BO4556K 2.0 Amp 4-1/2 Inch Finishing Sander w/Case

Product Description:
Makita's Finishing Sander, Model BO4556K, combines fast, smooth performance with a contoured rubberized palm grip and ease-of-use features. The BO4556K is ideal for wood workers and finish carpenters who require a best-in-class sander.

View largerBO4556K FeaturesPERFORMANCE - 2.0 AMP motor rotates pad 14,000 OPM for smooth finish sanding

COMFORT - Engineered to operate at a low noise level with reduce vibration

CAPACITY - 4-1/2" x 4" pad size

EFFICIENCY - Large clamping lever for quick and easy paper installation

INCLUDES - Abrasive paper, dust bag, punch plate and tool case
Tool SpecificationsPad Size4-1/2" x 4"Abrasive Paper Size4-1/2" x 5-1/2"No load speed14,000 OPMAMPS (120V)2.0Vibrations (m/s2)4.0Overall length5-1/8"Net weight2.4 lbs.The BO4556K weighs just 2.6 pounds and is engineered with a 2 AMP motor that delivers 14,000 OPM for fast and smooth finishing sanding. The precision-engineered all ball bearing construction significantly reduces vibration and noise.
Comfort and ease-of-use features include an ergonomically designed contoured rubberized palm grip that fits like a glove with even pressure and easy control. The rubber sealed switch prevents dust contamination and increases durability, while the large paper clamps are designed for fast and efficient paper installation. The efficient through-the-pad dust collection system helps provide a cleaner work environment, while the fabric dust bag has an extra wide mouth for faster disposal.
Model BO4556K includes abrasive paper, dust bag, punch plate, and tool case. It is ideal for a wide range of finish sanding applications. The BO4556K is just another example of Makita's commitment to innovative technology and best-in-class engineering.
About Makita's Power Tools
Makita delivers precision, accuracy, capacity, and innovation to woodworkers. Makita has full range of miter saws, jig saws, circular saws, routers, planers, sanders, nailers and staplers, blades, compact cordless drills and impacts, and more. Makita's woodworking solutions are engineered for pro contractors, for use in high production settings and in home shops.
About Makita
Makita is a worldwide manufacturer of industrial quality power tools and offers a wide range of industrial accessories. Makita applies leading-edge innovation to engineer power tools that are more compact and energy efficient, yet deliver industrial strength power and results. Makita U.S.A., Inc. is located in La Mirada, California, and operates an extensive distribution network located throughout the U.S. For more information, please call 800/4-MAKITA (800/462-5482) or visit makitatools.com. Makita is Best in Class Engineering.
Warranty
Every Makita tool is thoroughly inspected and tested before leaving the factory. If you are not satisfied with any Makita tool within 30 days of purchase, return it and Makita will provide a replacement or refund. Each Makita tool is warranted to be free of defects from workmanship and materials for the period of ONE YEAR from the date of original purchase. Should any trouble develop during this one-year period, return the COMPLETE tool, freight prepaid, to one of Makita's Factory or Authorized Service Centers. Please see makitatools.com for complete details.
Whats in the Box
Makita BO4556K Finishing Sander, abrasive paper, dust bag, punch plate and tool case.



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DEWALT D26451K 3 Amp 5-Inch Random Orbit Sander with Cloth Dust Bag Review

I used one of these sanders to remove heavy textured paint from the plaster walls of my 1890's Victorian in Maryland.This involved sanding every inch of a 3000 square foot house with heavy grit (60 grit) paper over a three month period.I estimate that I ran this unit for over 30 hours a week for the entire three months without a break.I still have it and it works fine.

The unit has a couple of problems that I noted over time:

1. The dust collector is cloth over a steel spring that tears where the cloth meets the hard plastic base of the dust collection bag.

2. The pad that accepts the hook-and-loop paper sometimes tears when removing the paper.This is easily replaced, but isn't cheap to do.

3. While the dust collector works pretty well (until it tears, that is), it is small and you have to stop work often to empty it.This is not a problem with the small jobs I use it on now, but it was annoying when I was sanding the walls.

4. Paper is costly and you will have to be careful of which brand you buy.There are some sanders with just 4 dust collection holes, while this one has I think 8, so you need to buy the paper that is right for the sander.They do sell it in 25 sheet packs, which cuts down on the cost.We used about 10 such packs, each costing about $10 to $15 at the big box store near us.

One final bit of advise: Always wear a resperator or face mask when sanding paint.Safety glasses are a must too.

Click Here to see more reviews about: DEWALT D26451K 3 Amp 5 Inch Random Orbit Sander with Cloth Dust Bag

Product Description:
Featuring DeWalt's exclusive Controlled Finishing System (CFS), the D26451K random orbit sander delivers speed and precision for beautiful, smooth finished products. The CFS controls pad speed mechanically to minimize the unsightly gouging that can occur when you start up other sanders, while a reliable, 3.0 Amp motor provides 12,000 orbits per minute for swift results. A textured anti-slip top and convenient body grips make this tool easy to hold and control, and a dual-plane counter-balanced fan mechanically reduces vibration to help you protect your body and stay comfortable. And over the long haul, a dust-sealed switch that prevents contamination and 100-percent sealed ball-bearing construction help ensure durability.
This versatile orbit sander provides you with a 3/32-inch orbit diameter that's perfect for the progressive removal of material, and it accepts 5-inch, 8-hole hook & loop paper, which allows sanding discs to be switched back and forth quickly and easily. A high-capacity dust bag with built-in vacuum adapter lets you keep your work area clear with or without the use of a vacuum. This DeWalt High Performance Industrial Tool comes with a heavy-duty kit box.

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Black & Decker MS2000 Multi Sander with Smart Select Review

----
UPDATE #2!
Just finished making a half a dozen large poster sized picture frames (32" x 24") and decided to use this to sand down a few spots. While the sander worked... it didn't do a great job. The finest sandpaper I can find locally for it is 180 grit, which isn't fine enough for my projects where I typically end up using 400 grit for a pristine finish. This is the biggest complaint I have about this sander is the fact that you have to buy B&D's pre-cut hook and loop sandpaper at a crazy $1-$2 a sheet, where as most orbital rounds or plain sheet sandpaper will run anywhere from a few cents to MAYBE $.75 a sheet. For example I can pick up a twenty sheet pack of Norton 400 grit sandpaper for $10. While this on the other hand, the finest I can find for it is 240 grit, which runs $5 for five pre-cut sheets.

The fact that you just can't use any normal sheeted sandpaper with this machine is starting to wear thin on me... for that reason I have downgraded my rating to 3-stars.
----

----
UPDATE #1!
Been using it a bit more and still liking it. I also forgot to mention one detail... you HAVE to use hook and loop sandpaper pads, you just can't go out and use regular ol sheeted sandpaper. It's be nice to be able to use standard non hook and loop pads but oh well.
----

I must be some sort of sander collector... besides this Black & Decker I own a Porter Cable, Hitachi, and a Mikita all of which I use on a regular basis.

So lets get down to the nitty gritty of this sander. What makes this a great choice for the DIYer is the fact that it is a four in one design, no need for multiple sanders for different jobs... pretty nice. As for how the sander performs as these different sander, not bad.

The 1/4 sheet base and speed setting works pretty well. Great for knocking down really high spots fast as well as doing large surfaces and getting into areas that a random orbital sander just can't get into.

If you turn the 1/4 sheet base around it becomes your finish sander. Adjust the speed and change the grit and it does a FANTASTIC job. Easy to get into tight areas and produces a great finish.

The random orbital base and speed setting does a good job, but not as well as either the Porter Cable or Hitachi I own, then again those cost a considerable amount more then this... so honestly for the price it can't be beat.

And finally you have a detail sander base, very similar to Black & Decker's Mouse sander. It works good for getting into really tight areas, however the overall size of this sander prevents it from being a really great detail sander.

The noise level of this sander is above normal to my standards. The Porter Cable and Hitachi are quieter and better insulated. The quality of the tool isn't too bad, a lot of plastic and rubber but has a bit of heft to it.

I vowed never to purchase or own another Black & Decker tool, but this one has actually changed my mind. They must actually be working hard at producing fine tools at a reasonable price.

If you are considering getting a couple of different sanders, such as an orbital and a detail, buy this one tool, you wont be disappointed!

Pros:
Cost.
Tons of features.
Dust collection/filter work great, surprised the heck out of me.
Uses most started sized precut sandpaper sheets.
Quality of the tool is on par with most any other brand.

Cons:
Noise... found it to be noisier then I like my sanders to be.
Haven't owned it very long and Black & Deckers track record (for me at least) has been sketchy... so I'm not sure how well it'll hold up.
You have to use hook and loop sandpaper pads for all of the bases.
Dust collection could use some work, i.e. make it easier to empty it out.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Black & Decker MS2000 Multi Sander with Smart Select

Product Description:
The Black & Decker MS2000 Smart Select Sanding Kit takes all the guesswork out of sanding projects. This all-in-one random orbit, 1/4-sheet, detail, and finish sander guides your work and self adjusts, so you'll get high-quality results every time you use it. Straightforward and easy to operate, the MS2000 is ideal for home improvement enthusiasts and hobbyists who want a tool that's ready to go right out of the box.

The MS2000 Smart Select Sanding Kit
At a Glance:

4-in-1 sander: random orbit, 1/4-sheet, detail, and finish
SmartSelect technology
Tool-free base change
Includes 2 interchangeable sanding bases, finger detail attachment, storage bag, and more
2-year warranty

SmartSelect dial adjusts speed for 4 different applications. View larger.
Swap sanding bases with the touch of a button. View larger.Smart Select Technology for Optimal Performance
It's not always easy to match the right sanding materials to the job, or to know which speed is best for the application. That's why the MS2000 features Smart Select technology, which does most of the thinking for you.
Just dial in your application with the illustrated Smart Select knob at the front of the tool: the sander will recommend a base and automatically adjust to the appropriate speed. The bases are color-coded to match the images on the knob, so selecting the right base for the job is as easy as can be.
Three Interchangeable Bases for Versatility
To make sure you get the most bang for your buck, the MS2000 is a complete sanding kit that includes three sanding bases: random orbit, detail sanding, and finish sanding. These interchangeable bases allow you to tackle a range of jobs, everything from sanding intricate detail work to doors, furniture, and floors.
To swap bases, simply press the MS2000's release button and attach a new base--no tools required!
Comfortable and Built to Last
The MS2000 has numerous features that were designed for comfort and reliability. To start, the sander features an ergonomic design with multiple grips (palm, rear-handle, and two-handed) to give you complete control.
For durability, the MS2000 has a dust-sealed rubber on/off switch and an easy-empty dust canister with filter to keep debris away from the tool's components.
The MS2000 is backed by a two-year warranty.
What's in the Box
Sander; one random-orbit sanding base; one flush/finish sanding base; one detail attachment; one accessory storage bag; and assorted sandpapers.



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Black & Decker MS800B Mouse Detail Sander With Dust Collection Review

My project is an 18' wooden boat.This is basically a sanding job: putting on (clear) epoxy resin sanding it off, repeat... Then sand again for 3-5 coats of epoxy varnish, sanding smooth between each.The inside is full of nooks and crannies under the seats, between the planks, and the bow (pointy end).I have a regular 5" orbital sander, but its too big for the corners and some of the planks.Hand-sanding seemed the only alternative.I headed to Home Depot, and picked this as the smallest viable looking sander (there was a smaller Ryobi detail sander whose reviews were less good, and looked less convincing for the larger areas i needed to cover).The B&D mouse has certainly exceeded all my expectations, and I have slipped into using it as my main sander for the boat interior, even instead of my regular orbital sander: it is efficient and very effective at edges.For the nastiest corners it has a finger-sized prong that fits to the nose with a screw.This is also much more effective than I expected (could have done with it being even longer, though).Of course you need a good supply of sandpaper.My local Home Depot was deficient in B&D mouse sandpaper, but I quickly found I could use regular 5" (Norton) disks on it, cutting a piece from an old disk to cover the velcro near the base where the disk falls short.You can cut the disk completely to the shape of the mouse's sanding plate, but I find it better just to let the disk fold-up around the edges for extra edge sanding power.For the much smaller finger probe, you have to cut pieces from the disks, if you follow this DIY sandpaper approach.
PROS: very effective, high-speed, great for edges & tight spots; the effective extension tool, low height enables access to smaller spacers (watch out for other versions that are taller)
CONS: sandpaper availability (using regular velcro disks solves this); the extension tools attach via a small philips head screw likely to strip at some point (but hasn't yet); the dust collection is not very effective; the on/off button in the front inconvenient in tight spaces; the base plate is a bit spongy if you are looking for a dead flat surface.This are all minor compared to the efficacy of this product.

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Product Description:
Designed for comfort and easy use, the Black & Decker MS800B Mouse Detail Sander With Dust Collection is ideal for completing light sanding needs. With its compact size and finger detail attachment, this detail sander can get into small spaces to perform finish sanding, polishing, scrubbing, and more. The soft-body grip keeps your hands comfortable while allowing you to securely hold the tool, helping to ensure safety, accuracy, and efficiency. And with its convenient dust trap collection system, the sander makes it easy to keep your workspace clean. The sander comes with two contour attachments and 11 different sanding accessories for performing a wide range of tasks, and a storage bag keeps everything together. The Mouse Detail Sander is covered by a 2-year warranty.

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DEWALT D26441K 2.4-AMP Heavy-Duty Orbital 1/4-Sheet Sander with Cloth Dust Bag Review

its a good sturdy sander but when it is first turned on it emits a loud screeching sound and ear plugs are a good idea

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Product Description:
The DEWALT D26441K Orbital 1/4 Sheet Sander is easy to use and delivers superior finish with 2.4 amp motor which sands at the speed of 14,000 orbits per minute. It has a vacuum adapter built in and a high capacity dust bag while maintaining a dust sealed switch at 100 percent ball-bearing construction for increased durability and longer life.Ergonomically designed with textured anti-slip top and body and dual plane counter-balanced for low vibration, the D26441K is comfortable to use for longer periods of time.

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