DeWALT Random Orbit Palm Sander???

[bearfretworks]

DeWALT DW421 Recon Random Orbit Palm Sander

I see TONS of these on eBay for $39.95 plus $9.95 shipping. Anyone ever held onto one while it was running, preferably while sanding some wood??????
In other words, are these screaming great deals or is there a very good reason why there are so many so cheap???

Thanks.

[PiALaModem]

For a new, not recon, these are about 70 dollars US. Full list price is 79.99This is right in the same bracket as the other good 5" RO sanders without variable speed, like the Porter Cable 333 (about 75). General impression I can gather is good. As for the $50 price (including shipping), well, if you go to a woodcraft store you can get a reconditioned dw421 for 50.99 and no shipping, so the deal is not so good as to be scary.

A big point for me about this sander is that it doesn't have variable speed.

[Mick Walker]

I have used my DW421 for a number of years and like it. Never could see a use for the vs model, (DW423). Some like the vs. $39.95 is a good price for the 421. Ace Hardware has the 421 on sale every once in awhile for $49.95, these are new ones. I started out with a Ryobi and my hand would get numb from using it. I have sanded for hours with the Dewalt and no numbness. Mick

[bearfretworks]

Thanks for the input ! The "screaming great deal" comment was coming from my perspective in Alaska, where the cheapest I can find one is around $65. I never thought about asking my local ACE Hardware store if they'd order me one as they don't stock them so will pursue that angle. Will also think about the VS option...

Thanks again to both of you - advice from folks who have actually used a tool is priceless.

Oh yeah, - 12 F as I type this......Glad I don't live further north, its -40 or colder......