Festool sanders...but which one ?

[Kevin Stricker]

I really like using my ets 125, and my RO125 for some of the same projects.  If you mostly sand large flat surfaces these might not be best but for refinishing they are great.  I would hate to refinish a bunch of balusters with my ETS 150/3, and a RO150 would be horrible for that task.  Luckily I have access to a RO150 for big furniture jobs so I have the best of both worlds.

One thing I have seen on this forum is that everyone has a love affair with at least one sander and will tell you all day that it is the best.  No one sander can do everything, and they all have strengths and weaknesses.  I have often thought of selling both of my 5" sanders for a RO150 usually when I am doing some large project, but then do not because my next job is doing a bunch of smaller stuff.  I have also heard people say use a RO150 and a Deltex for the small stuff, but it is obvious to me that they are not doing a lot of refinishing.  A Deltex is great but is not a good substitute for a 5" RO sander if your time is valuable to you. 

  Bottom line is ask yourself what the sander is going to be used for most and buy the one that suits your needs best. 

 

[mouppe]

Just so you all know the "my dad might slap me" thing was a joke. He doesn't do that. Secondly I really would like your opinions on whether or not I should sell my RO 125 for the RO 150 so I can be future ready for the ETS 150?

Chris,

Are you happy with the RO 125? If you are, why change it? If not, tell us why and maybe that will lead to some advice about which sander would be more suitable for you. I don't think the issue with the swirl marks is going to disappear by getting the 150 as I think it is more down to the user than the sander. I use my 125 for finishing furniture, not for paint stripping or large-scale applications. I like its size and feel, although as others have commented, it did require a short learning curve before I maximised its potential.

Richard.