Stress-Free Sander
The Makita XOB01Z 5-in. cordless random-orbit sander is well balanced and more convenient than its corded counterparts.
Like most modern tradespeople, I’ve switched over the majority of my cordless power tools to a single battery platform for convenience. Now that I’m invested in Makita’s 18v system, I’ve been using their XOB01Z 5-in. cordless random orbit sander. I love it. Its balance is outstanding, and because of its convenience, I use it more often than I’ve ever used a sander before. It’s perfect for flushing up column wraps, leveling plugs, and generally smoothing my mistakes. The sanding pattern is flawless with no little swirls in undesirable places.
The dust collection is adequate, though for a big sanding job, I’d still grab a corded tool—mainly because it’s easier to hook up to my existing dust-extraction system. For all other jobs, the three settings allow me to match the sander’s speed to the situation. And even though the highest setting is plenty aggressive, it’s also easy to control. This is one tool I’m delighted to have in my box.
Makita XOB01Z 5-in. Random Orbit Sander
Price: $100 (tool only)
Pad size: 5 in.
– Andy Engel, a lead carpenter with Hudson Valley Preservation in Kent, Conn.
Photo: Rodney Diaz
From Fine Homebuilding #286
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