Fine-finish sander
Internal dampening and tiny sanding strokes make Festool’s DTS 400 REQ a top-notch finishing tool.
Festool’s DTS 400 REQ ($270) performs better than any compact sander I’ve used, and with its delta-shaped head, I’m able to get into corners and spaces too tight for a larger 5-in. or 6-in. orbital sander. The tool also has excellent dust collection when paired with a vacuum. I had no trouble sanding built-ins, stairs, and cabinets inside finished houses and leaving absolutely no dust anywhere, which to me is invaluable.
The tool also provides an ultrafine finish due to its 5⁄64-in. sanding stroke. You’d think that fine a finish would mean slow sanding, but that’s not the case. The sander removes material fast and thanks to its internal dampening, I can sand all day without getting any pain or numbness in my hand or arm.
The kit includes a systainer storage case with enough room for a few boxes of sanding pads. If you’re looking for a midprice sander that does a fine job at a host of different tasks, I definitely recommend looking into the DTS 400.
Nathan Rinne, a finish carpenter in Roach, Mo.
From Fine Homebuilding #282
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