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I was looking for a small random orbit sander that could be used in the house. It is comfortable in the hand, so it can be used for quite a while without any hand fatigue. This one is great. The dust collection works excellent, it is fairly quiet and has very little vibration. On the small project I used it on, the sanded surface was nice and smooth & ready for finishing. This is going to be a joy to use for years to come.
I find the variable speed feature very handy for different applications. I bought this sander back in 2004 and it is still going strong. I would have to agree with the other reviewers who mention the dust bag could be better. I do have a couple of other sanders including a Festool sander, but I find myself coming back to this Makita every time. The handle holds well in my hand, the switch is conveniently placed, and it is well balanced. The dust on mine tended to leak out at a couple of stitches where the bag met the plastic connection, but I solved it by just putting tape over that section. If you hook the sander up to a dust collector/shop vac, this problem is eliminated.I would highly recommend this particular Makita BO5012K model and would definitely purchase again if, knock on wood, needed to.
I assume the Makita will do well but I have no feedback at this time. By comparison the Makita is like having a gyro in your hand and it's a good deal better than others I have used.
For my business, control and true random scratch pattern are the most important attributes - much of what I do is feathering-type work. I build cabinets and do high-end trim work.
There is no contest when it comes to control - the Porter-Cable wins hands down. I had not used the Makita but I purchased it based on a review I saw that rated it highly in the categories that are important to me.I had used Porter-Cable five hole sanders for many years.
When one recently went down, I took the opportunity to try the Makita. The Makita seems more efficient than the Porter-Cable so I think I'll get use out of it on broad expanse flat work but I've ordered parts for the down Porter-Cable and will be returning it to action soon.When it comes to scratch pattern, the only true test is whether scratches show up when wood is stained.
I have never had a problem with the Porter-Cables.The Makita is a good tool - just not as good for most of MY applications.
Contrary to what the description says, my sander spun at full speed upon startup making it difficult to set on the workpiece without marring it. I had to place it on the piece before turning it on. It was also a little difficult to control as it seemed to jump around while sanding. I returned it and bought the Porter Cable which so far is much better.
Recommend you were a mask when sanding too, so your lungs don't fill up with dust. It sands well and is built sturdy. I like this tool a lot. The dust bag is quite handy and the case keeps is safe. Of course anything that carries the MAKITA name has a place in my shed. But aside from that I found that is had good power and that it will do the job. With the right pads you will be able to sand anything.I recommend this tool. Hands down.
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