ETS 125 or RS 2

[jimmy986]

I am looking into possibly getting another sander. I have an RO 125 and a bosch random orbit. I have been looking into the ETS 125 and RS 2. I was thinking the ETS 125 because the papers would be the same as my Rotex. I've heard the ETS 150 is a lot smoother but the price is a good bit higher. I like my Rotex. I do mostly hobby work and my projects so far are end tables, cocktail tables and similar scale so it isn't like I am sanding huge pieces. That may make my want of an RS 2 seem odd but I would think it would be good for final sanding before staining on the top to get it nice and flat. I am assuming I could also use it on poly to get the final sanding with high grits, is that correct? So far, my sanding on poly has been limited to hand sanding with sand paper and synthetic steel wool. I am not very familiar with power sanding on poly.

 

[Scott B.]

I am looking into possibly getting another sander. I have an RO 125 and a bosch random orbit. I have been looking into the ETS 125 and RS 2. I was thinking the ETS 125 because the papers would be the same as my Rotex. I've heard the ETS 150 is a lot smoother but the price is a good bit higher. I like my Rotex. I do mostly hobby work and my projects so far are end tables, cocktail tables and similar scale so it isn't like I am sanding huge pieces. That may make my want of an RS 2 seem odd but I would think it would be good for final sanding before staining on the top to get it nice and flat. I am assuming I could also use it on poly to get the final sanding with high grits, is that correct? So far, my sanding on poly has been limited to hand sanding with sand paper and synthetic steel wool. I am not very familiar with power sanding on poly.

I'd go RS2 in that situation. Here is why: http://topcoatreview.com/2013/12/festool-rs2/

 

[Kev]

RS 2 / RS200 would be my choice over the ETS125, though they are very different. I have ETS150/3 & /5, but the RS200 is still on my "want list" .. the ETS125 isn't. Out of the ETS125, RTS400, DTS400 family I've only chosen the DTS400 and I love it.

 

[Holmz]

If you are trying to make something flat and smooth a 1/2 sheet sander is better than a gear disc.
your choice makes a lot of sense to me.

 

[Brent Taylor]

I have several Festool sanders and had a few more, including the RS2. I replaced it with the Makita 1/2 sheet sander, which I also had before and found it more comfortable for my work.  I would also look at the RTS 400, I find I use it more often than not. If you are doing large flat surfaces, you almost need a 1/2 sheet sander, ie; cabinets, desks and /or table tops.   

 

[AlexThePalex]

The RS 2 is better for tables than the ETS 125.

 

[SS Teach]

I have a 35 year old B & D half sheet sander. It weighs a lot, but when it is on you can move it around with one finger. What the others have said about sanding tables and other flat surfaces is true, a half sheet sander is great. The B & D does not have dust extraction. Thirty five years ago it was expected you would live in a dust bowl. The RS being Festool has dust extraction, believe me, a huge advantage. For the RS you can use Festool papers or get the accessory hole punch and then use any brand sheets you want. For tables such as those you will be building the RS is a great choice. Good luck.   

 

[MrToolJunkie]

Another vote for the RS2E  one of my favorite sanders and great for open field work -- flat is the name of the game with this sander. It is a gem.

 

[Holmz]

I have a 35 year old B & D half sheet sander. It weighs a lot, but when it is on you can move it around with one finger. What the others have said about sanding tables and other flat surfaces is true, a half sheet sander is great. The B & D does not have dust extraction. Thirty five years ago it was expected you would live in a dust bowl. The RS being Festool has dust extraction, believe me, a huge advantage. For the RS you can use Festool papers or get the accessory hole punch and then use any brand sheets you want. For tables such as those you will be building the RS is a great choice. Good luck. 

Once every is comortable that 1/2 sheet sanders are great for flat finish work, then the conversation could turn to which 1/2 sheet sander and which media.

I use a different brand, and use the Mirka screens.
There are no holes to align, and the screens last a long time.

 

[Stephen B]

[attachimg=1]

[size=13pt]Just another option for consideration. Festool hole pattern matches Makita for dust extraction. Sander dust exhaust has a clear tube sleeve to accomodate Festool hose.

 

[gsdvorak]

Depending on the style of your table legs, you are probably going to end up with both- the RS2E is truly the best choice for your table tops or anything that needs to remain flat (mine has been getting quite a workout on some red oak trim lately) but I would reach for the ETS125 for doing the table legs.  It is easier to control for smaller surfaces.
 

Regards,
Gerald