I need to buy a 4 or 4-1/2 inch angle grinder to do some tile work. They seem to be pretty inexpensive, so I’m willing to pay a little extra for a high quality one. Any recommendations?
I also need a diamond wheel. What are the pros and cons of segmented vs. continuous rim?
Thanks for your input.
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Replies
If you are willing to spend a little more, get a variable speed model. A standard one spins at like 12,000 rpm. Variable speed goes down to 3,000rpm.
You can use the variable speed type for all sorts of different stuff...
I've never used the segmented blade--the continuous rim is where it's at for most tasks.. I do believe.
"Research is what I'm doing when I don't know what I'm doing..."
got a 4 " makita...
finally sprang for a 5" variable speed metabo
Good grinder and continious rim for tile. Get a little smoother cut. Secret is to secure the tile. The less vibration the nicer the cut. Hope this helps
Gary
Second the Metabo but i can't find mine ........... Lost in the wharehouse somewhere.
On a hill by the harbour
I have had excellent luck with Bosch grinders. I would recommend a continuos rim blade for tile work, a segmented blade can cause chipping.
I have a Milwaukee 6148-6 and absolutely love it. It has plenty of power, an easily adjustable guard, and will accept cut-off wheels without any kind of adaptor. I had a DeWalt grinder that would not accept cut-off wheels at all and quickly upgraded to the Milwaukee. As for cutting tile, I use a continuous rim blade.
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http://www.metabousa.com/metabo/handgefuehrte/us/en/produkte/anglegrinders/anglegrinderwe14125vs_6_01426_42.html
If you want to purchase high quality with minimal vibration then consider either the Metabo or the Flex. I have used both and like both. Lots of power and very little vibration. AND, they hold up and do the job.
What reinvent says.
The Metabo is incredible. You right handed? If so, put the machine in your left hand and turn it on with that one hand. Or have your gurlfriend do it.
That will make your decision for you.
I've abused the he77 out of my 4" Makita for about every imaginable task there is. Sometimes I wish the disk was a bit bigger but the light weight and small body is worth it to me.
Segmented blade it for heavier duty work, like demo or cutting brick. It also works well for cutting sheetrock and corner bead neatly, without the corner bead tearing out. The continuous rim works well for most tile.
I don't know how they are today. But , I got 25 year old craftsman that I'd miss like my dog if burglars stole it. I use it ten times a year.
It needs a new switch. When I exterior house paint, it gets a work out.
I saw one of the big time posters and tool junky around here acknowledge he had a HF.
I wouldn't go with DeWalt... I have a 4" grinder with a wire cup brush STUCK on it. It threaded on fine and I was wire brushing flux from welding... When I went to remove it, the shaft lock button would lock the shaft, but it would flex and pop out of the internal indention and won't lock the shaft.... I'm stuck with the brush....
Bill
For a one-off project, or for someone who has never used an angle grinder before, you can't beat Harbor Freight. For $15-20 you get a grinder that will do the job, and teach you enough about the tool to let you make an intelligent choice when you decide to 'move up.'
As for the diamond blade ...ask the guy selling them! He, of all folks, ought to know the uses, advantages of each type.
Two things to not forget: Safety glasses, and a dust mask!
Grinders throw all manner of stuff at your face - so glasses are not an option - they're really necessary in this case. Masonry / stone / cement dust can be real bad too ... and diamond wheels make lots of fine dust. So, a mask is a smart idea.
And NEVER operate the tool without the side handle. You only THINK you can control it less the handle - you can't.
I hardly ever use the side handle on my grinder (in the 10 years I've owned one).I mostly use it for coping and scribing moldings though.