If you’re a beginner in the world of woodworking or just a regular do-it-yourselfer, a detail sander is exactly what you need to take your work to the next level as it it can help you tackle some more complex projects and lead you to much better results.
These specific tools can really change the life and work of a small shop, and since Statisca found out that, in 2017, over 400 thousand Americans were employed in the wood products sector, we hope this article might help those workers and shed some light on an amazing tool.
Table of Contents
What are Detail Sanders?
We’re talking about small and lightweight sanders, capable of delivering fine results to very complex and detailed wood items, like vintage furniture and pieces of art. Also called “corner” or “mouse” sanders, they will reach those hard angular spots most tools can’t and therefore win their space in a woodworker’s shop.
Now, due to the variety of options available on the market, we’re here to guide you into buying the best detail sander for your needs. If you already have a strong idea of what you’re looking for, take a look at this article to discover the best ones on the market.
Power and Weight
Even though most detail sanders are fairly lightweight, some can really pack a punch. If you’re not too used to them, we recommend going for control over power.
Most detail sanders will go from 2lbs (0.9kg) to 3lbs (1.4kg) and, even though it seems like a small difference, just imagine having to hold an extra pound for long periods. That said, adjust its weight to the intervals of time you wish to use them in.
Regarding power, there are two terms you’ll see a lot: “AMP” and “RPM”. The first one refers to ampere – a universal measure of electric current which, simplified, means the motor’s overall power. The second one means rotations per minute – how many times does the sander’s pad orbits in a single minute. Typically, there’s a direct proportion between both and, to give you a general idea, good sanders have motors with 0.5 to 1.5AMP and are capable of reaching between 11.000 and 21.000RPM.
Design pad
In terms of their sanding pads, one that comes with a variety of different ones is always a good offer. They can slightly change shape, but most ones work with a corner-style pad – a triangular shape with curved edges, capable of reaching some hard spots and intricate surfaces. Even though more sizes mean more tools for different jobs, the regular one works with the almighty 3.9’’ (10cm) 5.5’ (14cm).
Extras
Here are some useful extras you’ll want to keep an eye out for:
- Dust-Sealed Power Button – prevents dust from getting in and ruining the ability to turn it on and off.
- Extra sandpaper – no sandpaper is too much!
- Pressure Control Technology – monitors the pressure applied on the surface with the help of lights.
- Efficient and see-through dust collector – not only do you keep a clean workspace, but you know when it needs emptying.
- Velcro Base Pad – much easier and quicker to change different sandpaper grits.
- Cordless – let’s face it, every cordless tool is in another level of convenience.
Final Thoughts
Last, but not least, there are some amazing options for a lower price, so a big budget doesn’t always mean better quality! But the rule of thumb is to envision how often you want to use it and the quality of your results and try to choose a value between $15 and $250, the first being the rare home project and the latter the everyday workshop job. We hope you can leave knowing a bit more about this amazing tool and are able to do a smart buy that will help you greatly. Thanks for reading!