Porter-Cable 360VS 12 Amp 3-Inch by 24-Inch Variable Speed Belt Sander

• 3M 81410 3-Inch x 24-Inch Purple Regalite Resin Bond 50 Grit Cloth Sanding Belt - 5 Pack
• Bosch 1591EVSK 6.4 Amp Barrel Grip Jigsaw
• 3M 81413 3-Inch x 24-Inch Purple Regalite Resin Bond 100 Grit Cloth Sanding Belt - 5 Pack
• Porter-Cable 557 7.5 Amp Plate Joiner
• 3M 05114481412 3 X 24 80y Grit Portable 761d Resin Bond Abrasive Belt

It's a good thing I didn't give the old Black and Decker away because I had to put it back to work to get in close. As a reviewer I have to be honest about this sander. It is a real nice powerful sander and I find it on a par with my old Black and Decker as far as noise goes. If your not doing floors then you would be purchasing a fine machine. The only complaint I have and this was a big one for me is that when I tried to get in close to a wall a bulge on the side kept the sander out about three quarters of an inch.

On the down side - the dust bag is a joke. If you do a lot of flat sanding, I'd recommend a heavier sander. But I've also had no down time with it. It is light enough to be held with one hand for scribing, and stable enough for flat sanding. I've had this sander for four years, and use it extensively.

It handles well, and made to last. It has a good design, and is well built. It never worked right, and tore and fell off after a month. For all around service though, it's a keeper. It also gets hot after a few minutes of hard, constant use.

The dust collection doesn't work. Remove the strip and the fanand use a vacuum or buy a different sander. Take the side cover off and see for yuorself, Porter Cable blocked the rear dust collection port with a strip of metal. They put the port onthe top which is useless.

The swivel feature on the dust bag will keep it out of your way, and it's quiet, unlike many competitive models. If you are looking for a professional belt sander, this is the one to own. Porter-Cable invented the belt sander, and this shows why they are still the industry leader. Simply put, it does it's job, and does it well. The 12 amp motor does not bog down.

This a fine quality machine. SAND.The ability to adjust the speed is a must on any sander.This tool will easily withstand the daily rigors of loading and unloading your work truck.I do recommend upgrading the sanding shoe and I wish porter cable offered that as a standard.From the rugged american craftsmanship to its simplicity and fair price this tool is a big hit.Two thumbs up on this one.Now get out there and sand something. It really is very basic and quite simple in its design. Although not as refined as some sanders out there this unit does one thing well.