Random Orbit VS Sanders

[TLCObsession]

Holy Crap - WHen was this forum created? I love it!

I want to buy a VS RO Sander. General purpose: Use will be woodworking, metal working (scotchbrite finish on metal parts for non 4x4 application) and some bodywork (I do not want to buy a DA and a bigger compressor)

My questions boil down to:

What brand?

What Size (5" or 6")?

What for factor ? (right angle, palm type or D handle)?

What abrasive mounting? (PSA or H&L) (Can you get PSA scotchbrite discs or does that force me into H&L?)

For eample I know that the Porter Cable 6" RA is a really nice unit for sanding and polishing. But even if I decide to go that route (brand, form factor and size) I still need to figure out the abrasive mounting.

[64Trvlr]

I've got 2 VS RO electric sanders. One is a 5" Porter Cable #333 and the other is a 6" Milwaukee #6020-02. The Porter Cable is a nice finish type sander and the Milwaukee is a heavier duty sander. Both of them have the hook and loop fastening system. One thing to make sure of is, that which ever system you get the pads/paper is available where you live/shop. I also have an 40 year old Porter Cable gear drive belt sander that was my Dads and it rocks.

[TLCObsession]

Grizzly is in my hometown, and not only do they do mailorder, but they do will call - so supplies is not really the trigger.

I am not planning on building fine furniture right now. I also already own a disc sander and a 1/4 sheet Makita finishing sander.

[TLCObsession]

Ttt

[plunkinberry]

Honestly, if you already own a disc sander and a 1/4 sheet Makita, why do you feel you need another? Is the disc sander electric or air powered? Do you have a compressor?

For woodworking, I use a DeWalt 1/4 sheet electric - I also use this for minor automotive and general uses. It works real well and has proved very durable. For years, I'd used my father's 1/4 sheet Makita and really liked it. I believe the 1/4 sheet shanders are all very similar and I've not found that any one is particuarly better than another. I've used many.

[mike]

I have a PC 4" RO, I'm about to buy a larger RO sander.. I'll spend the $$ and go with a Festool. Oh and I drastically prefer H&L, but I tend to change paper frequently.