Finish Sanders
Finish Sanders: Sheet, Random Orbit, and Stationary
Finish sanders smooth wood and coatings after shaping is done. This collection covers three types. Sheet sanders from Makita, Bosch, and Porter Cable take 1/4, 1/3, or 1/2 sheets of paper, in corded, 12V, and 18V models. Random orbit finish sanders include the Festool ETS EC compact brushless line and Mirka DEROS 5 and 6 inch sanders with 2.5mm and 5.0mm orbits. Stationary Jet belt and disc finishing machines and the Festool RTS 400 round it out.
What to Look For
- Sheet or round pad. Square-pad sheet sanders reach into corners and run on cut sheet paper. Random orbit sanders leave fewer swirl marks on open surfaces.
- Orbit size. A smaller orbit, like the 2.5mm DEROS, gives a finer finish. A larger orbit cuts faster.
- Dust collection. Vacuum-ready and AWS capable models connect to an extractor for cleaner air and longer paper life.
- Bench work. Jet 6 x 48 belt and 12-inch disc machines finish small parts and edges at the bench.
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Finish Sanders FAQ
1/4, 1/3, or 1/2 sheet sander?
A 1/4 sheet palm sander is the most compact and easiest to control one-handed. A 1/3 sheet sander covers more area per pass. A 1/2 sheet sander like the Makita BO4900V or Bosch OS50VC suits large flat panels.
Can a finish sander remove a lot of material?
Not quickly. Finish sanders are for the last grits. For heavy removal, start with a belt sander or a random orbit sander with a larger orbit, then finish with a fine-orbit tool.