ROS

[tvman44]

I have a 1/4 sheet palm sander and wondering about a 5" random orbital sander.  Is there any advantage to a ROS over a 1/4 sheet palm sander?  Would a ROS be any more agressive than a 1/4 sheet palm sander using the same grit sand paper?  A 1/4 sheet palm sander has the advantage of being able to use a 1/4 sheey of sand paper or a roll of 4 1/2" of paper cut to 5 1/2" long, where a ROS needs the 5" round disc with hook/loop fasteners.  Just wondering if I would gain anything getting a ROS since I already have 2 of the 1/4 sheet palm sanders.

Bob

[Dan]

http://www.woodworking-news.com/woodworking-tips/random-vs-sheet-sanders.shtml

 

Here's some good info to help with your question.

[amazingkevin]

I find that every sanders different. two of the same type sanders are different ones aggressive the other not so.Random orbital sanders tend to be self cleaning more and i suppose would be more aggressive than vibrating sheet sanders .But still all sanders are different.

[amazingkevin]

Nice find Dan!

[tvman44]

Good article Dan, thanks.

Bob

[LarryEA]

My comments are:  My orbit sander uses velcro like discs to attach. 

Your sand paper is cheaper. Variable speed is an advantage (mine has only one speed).

Orbit sander does not sand with the grain or against it either, may need xtra sanding

I'm timid about sanding fretwork with an orbit, but I do.

ROS does great job collecting sanding dust in the bag.

[oldhudson]

I have both types. I use the 5" random orbit sander a lot more than the palm sander, but not for scroll work. The random orbit sander uses the velcro sanding sheets (really fast and easy to change grits) and is variable speed. It just covers a lot more territory than the palm sander can. I find the palm sander a bit safer when working on delicate projects. The dust collection holes on a random orbit sander can grab stock and mess you up.

[dgman]

I have a very nice Makita 1/4 sheet sander and two Porter Cable 333 random orbital sanders. That very nice 1/4 sheet sander stays in its case on a shelf. It never gets used. I use one 333 RO constantly. The other is a spare.

 

Anyone want to buy a rarely used 1/4 sheet sander? Well actually, I'll keep it for that rare time that I might need it.

[MrsN]

I have a skill octo sander. It is a ros with some detail accessory attachments. I love it and use it all the time.

I have a 1/4 sheet that sits in a box on the shelf.

I think there might be another sander on the shelf, but can't remember what it is.

[ike]

I have  both types ;of sanders and I prefer the Mouse over all others for this purpose, the sand paper is a little more expensive but I still prefer it