With no speed control and an aggressive 5/16-in. stroke, this sander made us constantly fight for control. Even with two hands firmly on the tool there was a constant wobble. Considering the rough action, we expected the rate of stock removal to be higher than 18 grams (see test results, p. 67). On the other hand, the dust collection was pretty effective at 92% when attached to a vacuum (there is no onboard canister). Another drawback is the requirement to grease the eccentric head every 50 hours and the gears every 300 hours. None of the other sanders listed a similar maintenance requirement.
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While this sander is among the least expensive models in the test, its performance ranks among the best. The stock removal was excellent, and dust collection was solid when used with a vacuum. It handles really smoothly, too, and has a tall body that fit my hand nicely whether I was holding it from above or around the waist.
This tool is designed for convenience. The battery and pins are easy to load, and the safety lock operates with the same finger you use to pull the trigger. The depth of set is adjustable, there’s a work light, and there’s a hook for hanging the tool on your toolbelt. A gauge lets you keep track of when you’ll need to recharge.
Yes, there is no speed control. And yes, it is aggressive and Fein suggests lubrication after 50 and 300 hours. I've owned mine for at least 25 years, use it regularly, have never lubricated it (I never took the time to learn how), and use two hands only because it is convenient to do so, having never "fought" for control. Rough or fine sanding is only determined by the grit you use. Fantastic machine!
With its graceful curves, cabriole legs, and ornamental back splat, a Queen Anne side chair is a bucket list build for many woodworkers. Dan Faia had a very specific Queen…
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Comments
Yes, there is no speed control. And yes, it is aggressive and Fein suggests lubrication after 50 and 300 hours. I've owned mine for at least 25 years, use it regularly, have never lubricated it (I never took the time to learn how), and use two hands only because it is convenient to do so, having never "fought" for control. Rough or fine sanding is only determined by the grit you use. Fantastic machine!
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