RS2E Sander: A Gigantic RTS400?

[Scott B.]

In a world of Rotexes and sporty orbitals, the RS2E doesn't get much air play.

Here is an overview I put together on this sander: http://topcoatreview.com/2013/12/festool-rs2/

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[Brian Livingstone]

Hi Scott,

Excellent review !  I have both the RS2E and the RTS400, and I love them both !  They are so smooth, and leave such a beautiful finish.  I couldn't say a bad thing about them.  I was using the RS2E to sand drywall, and it is way too heavy for an overhead application. 

I use the RTS400 for sanding face frames, which I typically make 2 inches wide, and I use the RS2E to sand plywood panels and doors.

Thanks.

Brian

 

[Scott B.]

Hi Scott,

Excellent review !  I have both the RS2E and the RTS400, and I love them both !  They are so smooth, and leave such a beautiful finish.  I couldn't say a bad thing about them.  I was using the RS2E to sand drywall, and it is way too heavy for an overhead application. 

I use the RTS400 for sanding face frames, which I typically make 2 inches wide, and I use the RS2E to sand plywood panels and doors.

Thanks.

Brian

Thanks Brian, it sounds like we have some similar sanding habits and preferences.

 

[ScotF]

The RS2E is one of my all time favorite sanders.  For furniture making I would argue it is the most important sander to have, at least it is for me.  Virtually every project is touched with it at some point.

Scot

 

[Scott B.]

The RS2E is one of my all time favorite sanders.  For furniture making I would argue it is the most important sander to have, at least it is for me.  Virtually every project is touched with it at some point.

Scot

I bet it is a "go to" tool on a daily basis, Scot. I would think it is a big time save for you.

 

[ScotF]

Big time same and it also ensures nice flat surfaces.  Random orbit sanders can leave little dips and valleys and you really have to be careful and pay attention to what you are sanding.  The RS2E makes it easy and I do not need to worry about over sanding in one spot.  I love it!

Scot

 

[Scott B.]

Thanks for the feedback, Scot. And Brian too.

I've added a link to this thread so readers at my site can benefit from FOG members' experiences with this tool.

Hope others will chime in as well.

 

[Kev]

Thanks Scott B, another great review and I like that you've drawn careful attention the the real purpose of the RS2.... (RS200 down under). Too often people buy a tool based on what they think it should do from the way it looks to them ! [huh]

 

[Scott B.]

Thanks Scott B, another great review and I like that you've drawn careful attention the the real purpose of the RS2.... (RS200 down under). Too often people buy a tool based on what they think it should do from the way it looks to them ! [huh]

I agree completely, Kev.

On physical appearance alone, it looks like it ought to be a heavyweight champion of sanders, like a belt sander meets Rotex.

Definitely can't judge this book by its cover.