Disc/Belt Sander - Which Type To Get?

[Cubman]

I am looking to purchase a disc/belt sander while they are on sale for Christmas, and do not know which type would be most useful. If you could choose between these two types of sanders, which would you choose, and why?

Disc Sander, Vertical Belt



Disc Sander, Horizontal Belt

[jagg]

I've got both, but to choose the better I'd recommend the Horizontal one

[Cubman]

Thanks for the reply. What type of projects do you use use your sander for, generally?

[rockhugger]

I would like to see the Ryobi Horizantal actually be both, vertical and adjustable down to be Horizantal. That would take care of the question. You should look for something that does both... kinda like this one
http://www.wttool.com/product-exec/p...m_source=froog

read the description:
Description

• Adjustable position 6-inch belt performs multiple operations vertically, horizontally and any position in between
• Belt tension easily micro-adjusted
• Machined aluminum table is removable and can be used with both disc and belt sanders
• Stand included at no extra cost

that's the one I would recommend

[rockhugger]

Originally Posted by Cubman

I am looking to purchase a disc/belt sander while they are on sale for Christmas, and do not know which type would be most useful. If you could choose between these two types of sanders, which would you choose, and why?

Disc Sander, Vertical Belt



Disc Sander, Horizontal Belt

matter of fact, just get the second one, the BD4600.
It's brand new and sounds pretty sick.

description:
BD4600
This combination belt and disc sander looks like a good bet for the small multipurpose shop. It's equipped with a 6-in.-dia. disc a 4-in.-wide x 36-in.-long belt and a miter gauge. The belt can be positioned horizontally or vertically. Belt changing and adjustment should be a snap because the tension lever and tracking wheel are both located at the front of the machine. A dust port on the side accepts a hose from a shop vacuum. The BD4600 costs about $100.

I know what I'm asking for for X-mas

[Mnster]

Vertical belt, the thiner belt is more useful for tight areas. Belts are cheaper, and you have a better view of your part. If the part is curved or has corners the belt can work around them. Most horizontal ones just seem backwards.

I've got a delta much like that one pictured, most used part construction tool in the shop.

[jagg]

Originally Posted by Cubman

Thanks for the reply. What type of projects do you use use your sander for, generally?

I use them for both metal and wood working. The 6" disc I use mostly for the larger parts, but I do use my 1" belt like Mnster said for the smaller pieces.

[Dragon Soaring]

the Horizontal Belt is used a ton in my shop too. its great that it can move to vertical.
for concave i use a drum sander in my drill press.

Chris K

[_BEN_]

Originally Posted by Cubman

Thanks for the reply. What type of projects do you use use your sander for, generally?

You can clean up your cuts.
What I do is trace out my plans on the material I will be cutting. Make a rough cut then sand them to perfection.

All cut indvidually by hand. Then sanded.

[toy4crawlin]

I'm in the market also,

Those sanders above like the Delta is only 1/3 power :-(

that may be ok for the light stuff, plastic and small aluminum

If your going to spend the cash and your a builder it would be a good idea to buy something with more power to cover more projects as you get older with bigger projects and steel

Nothing sucks more than trying to sand down only to have the belt/motor slow down or stop

This looks great and is a well known great brand
http://www.amazon.com/Palmgren-81192...7061851&sr=1-6


Or Craftsman :
2/3 hp max. dev. motor. Belt speed is 4400 fpm. Belt arm operates vertically and horizontally. Table tilts to 45 deg. Disc rotates at 3450 rpm. 1-1/4 in. dust collection port on disc table.

[Cubman]

Originally Posted by toy4crawlin

This looks great and is a well known great brand
http://www.amazon.com/Palmgren-81192...7061851&sr=1-6

Thanks for the link! I found a thread on Pirate 4x4 about this sander:
http://www.pirate4x4.com/forum/showt...=amazon+sander

Does anyone else have an opinion on this sander?

[rabenj852]

Harbor freight # 34951 belt / disc sander and #44505 keyless drill press.

about $50 each.

TRUST ME, JUST BUY THEM.

[Kranberry]

Me ide go with this one. http://www.amazon.com/Palmgren-81181...xp_grid_pt_1_1
has a spindle to sand things with a curve.