random orbit sander

[woodall83]

I'm looking to acquire one. Any suggestions?
I was looking at lowes at a Dewalt (#DW423) and a Porter-Cable (#7336). Are these comparable? Any other good suggestions...?

[Rich]

I don't particularly like the barrel handles - it always felt like my hand was too far away from the work. I can't recall the model # on mine but it's very similar to the 333VSK 5" Variable Speed Random Orbit Sander.

[TnAndy]

Just be sure to get the one with the hook and loop pad, not the stick on. Got both and like the hook/loop a LOT better. You leave the stick on for a month or two with a piece of sandpaper on it and it really doesn't want to come off whole.

[Rich]

Yes - when I bought mine it was stick on - but I bought the hook and loop pad for it. Very easy to replace - but save yourself the headache up front.

[Dragon]

Yes definately go hook and loop.

[woodall83]

Rich, what brand?

[giddonah]

Porter cable:

http://www.northwestpowertools.com/sanders/palm/333vsk.htm

[woodall83]

is variable speed worth the extra money?

[Rich]

Mine isn't variable.. the one giddonah linked to is the closest one I could find to the style I have. I think it's overrated for most applications.

[woodall83]

Good enough... Porter Cable it is. Thanks guys!!

[Dragon]

Crap I got here too late.

The Dewalt palm held variable speed orbital is incredible. It will outsand both my porter cable and my bosch.

[Rich]

haha.. I would definatly agree Dragon - and that's why I didn't suggest it. :)
Seriously though - if you're not used to what the Dewalt can do - it can do more damage than good - as it will sand right through veneer.

[Dragon]

Hence the variable speed...

;)

[Rich]

We used one when we were laying rough sawn fir floor. Would take down high spots in about 1/2 second - the one we had wasn't variable speed. But point taken on the variable speed :) Would've been useful.