Black & Decker Small Angle Grinder

As someone who's spent countless hours tackling various grinding tasks, I’ve had the opportunity to put the Black & Decker G950 Small Angle Grinder through its paces. From pre-welding prep to general maintenance, this compact powerhouse has consistently proven its worth in my workshop. Here’s my take on what makes this tool a solid addition to any DIY enthusiast's or professional's toolkit.

Build and Design

Right out of the box, the G950 impresses with its robust construction. The metal gear case is a standout feature, promising durability and extended tool life. This grinder feels substantial but not overly heavy, weighing in at 7.0 pounds. It strikes a balance between sturdiness and manageability, making it suitable for extended use without causing excessive fatigue.

The 3-position side handle is a thoughtful addition, offering versatility and comfort. Whether you're left-handed or right-handed, or need to adjust your grip for different tasks, this feature ensures that you can maintain control and precision. The handle itself is ergonomically designed, reducing strain and providing a secure hold, which is especially important during prolonged use.

Performance and Power

At the heart of the G950 is its powerful 8.5-amp motor. This motor delivers a maximum speed of 10,000 rpm, making it capable of handling a wide range of grinding tasks. From sharpening tools to cutting through metal and removing rust, the G950 doesn’t falter. The motor is brushed, which is common in corded tools and ensures reliable performance.

One of the first tasks I used the G950 for was prepping metal surfaces before welding. The grinder made quick work of smoothing out rough edges and removing old paint and rust. The consistent power output meant I could complete the job efficiently without having to stop and wait for the tool to catch up.

Ease of Use

Operating the G950 is straightforward, even for those new to angle grinders. The spindle lock feature simplifies wheel changes, reducing downtime and keeping the workflow smooth. This is a small but significant detail, especially when switching between different types of grinding and cutting wheels.

The corded nature of the G950 offers uninterrupted power, which is a plus for long projects. While cordless tools offer mobility, I found that having a constant power supply without the worry of battery life was a major advantage for more intensive tasks.

Versatility and Applications

The G950 is marketed as a small angle grinder, but its applications are anything but limited. With a wheel diameter of 4-1/2 inches, it’s versatile enough to handle a variety of jobs. I’ve used it for grinding, cutting, and even some surface polishing with the appropriate attachments. The tool’s adaptability is one of its strongest points.

For heavy-duty jobs, the grinder’s performance remains consistent. I’ve used it to cut through rebar and metal pipes, and it handled these tasks with ease. The metal gear case does its job well, dissipating heat and maintaining the grinder’s performance even during demanding tasks.

Durability and Maintenance

Durability is a major consideration when investing in any power tool. The G950 has a sturdy build and has shown no signs of wear despite regular use. The metal gear case not only enhances durability but also provides some protection to the internal components from dust and debris, which are common in grinding environments.

Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning and occasional checks on the brushes are all it takes to keep the grinder in top working condition. The 2-year limited warranty offers some peace of mind, though I haven’t encountered any issues that would necessitate its use.

Noise and Vibration

One aspect that often gets overlooked in power tool reviews is noise and vibration. The G950 is not the quietest tool on the market, but it’s within the expected range for a grinder of this power. Wearing ear protection is recommended, especially if you’re working in a confined space.

In terms of vibration, the G950 performs admirably. The 3-position side handle helps to manage and reduce vibration, making it more comfortable to use for extended periods. This is particularly important for precision work, where excessive vibration can lead to less accurate results.

Final Thoughts

After extensive use, I can confidently say that the Black & Decker G950 Small Angle Grinder is a reliable and versatile tool. Its powerful motor, sturdy construction, and user-friendly features make it a valuable addition to any workshop. Whether you’re a professional or a DIY enthusiast, this grinder is equipped to handle a wide range of tasks with ease.

Would I recommend the G950? Absolutely. Its combination of power, durability, and ease of use make it an excellent choice for anyone in need of a dependable angle grinder. The 2-year warranty is a nice bonus, but given the tool’s performance, I doubt you’ll need to use it. From my experience, the G950 delivers on its promises and then some, making it a worthwhile investment for both occasional and regular use.

In summary, the Black & Decker G950 Small Angle Grinder stands out as a robust, efficient, and versatile tool that will serve you well in a variety of applications. Its thoughtful design and reliable performance ensure that it will be a go-to tool in your collection for years to come.