Oscillating Spindle Sander Suggestions

[greatdane2]

Oh yeah, I went into a Cabela`s store in Spokane. Its one of those super stores they are building. It was like a kid in Toys-R-Us, guys walking behind the other half snivelling about what they want. Total overload for anybody that likes the outdoors.

Alan.

[Jediscroller]

Originally Posted by Rolf

Kevin,
I would be so screwed if I lived that close to a tool store.

Hehehehe, I do tend to get myself in trouble with that place.

[groverd]

i go with my son. . NEVER get in trouble while in am in the store!!! later, , , well, , , , ,

[workin for wood]

I think that ridgid with the belt and spindle has it's place, but it isn't in the same league as the Jet. The ridgid has advantages but is outweighed by disadvatanges. The plastic is great in that it won't rust, but is prone to breakage, especially as the plastic ages, where the Jet is metal and metal doesn't break down with age, and won't rust with proper care. The extra weight of the Jet is a huge advantage when trying to sand something long that makes the ridgid move around and tip about. The jet has dust collection. The jet has real bearings, the ridgid uses brass bushings. The jet has an induction motor offering several times the torque, even though I believe both are rated the same hp, but we all know torque and hp are very different. You can stall the ridgid, you can't stall the jet without really stepping on it. The jet has dust collection, I think the ridgid does not, can't quite recall. The belt looks cool on the ridgid, but it is too small for most jobs. The most important factor off them all, is the jet has a 1/4" spindle and no other brand does! It's worth paying more just for that option!

[Rolf]

Jeff,
Now tell me what you really think.
Where are you buying the replacement sleeves for the Jet?
Also did you buy the additional 3" drum?

[workin for wood]

I think the Ridgid is a waste of money Rolf...heck you know that! Ridgid is the color of a pumpkin, a pumpkin is a melon.

I buy my sleeves at a local lumber mill, but they are always on the shelf at woodcraft stores as well. I did not by the 3" drum, I just have no use for it. I use the 1/4" spindle the most. If I need large round hogging out power for shaping, I just use the end of the stationary belt sander.

[Rolf]

Jeff,
Good point about the end of the belt sander. I have been using the 1/4 inch spindle a lot the last few days doing a small intarsia. I have a new level of respect for all the Intarsia artists that do lots of small parts.