Milwaukee Random Orbit Sander

If you’re like me, finding the right sander can be a game-changer for your woodworking projects. The Milwaukee 2648-20 Random Orbit Sander promises a lot: variable speed control, efficient dust collection, and the convenience of cordless operation. After putting it through its paces, here’s my take on whether it lives up to those promises.

First Impressions and Build Quality

Straight out of the box, the Milwaukee Random Orbit Sander feels robust and well-built. It has a solid heft to it, which can be both a blessing and a curse. The weight gives it a sense of durability, but it can also become cumbersome during extended use. The design is somewhat bulky, making it less ergonomic than some of its competitors. However, the construction quality is top-notch, as you’d expect from Milwaukee.

Performance and Power

The sander operates within a variable speed range of 7,000 to 12,000 OPM, which is quite impressive. This range allows for a lot of flexibility depending on the material you’re working with. Whether you’re sanding down a rough piece of wood or fine-tuning a finished surface, you can adjust the speed to match your needs.

In terms of power, the Milwaukee sander holds its own. It’s comparable to many corded models, which is saying something for a cordless tool. However, I did notice that it struggles a bit when you apply significant pressure or work on tougher materials. It’s best used with a light touch to avoid bogging down the motor.

Battery Life

Battery life is always a concern with cordless tools, and this sander is no exception. Using a 3.0Ah battery, I found that it lasted around 30-35 minutes of continuous use, which is decent but not outstanding. Larger batteries will obviously extend this runtime, but they also add to the weight and bulkiness of the tool. For most DIY projects, the battery life should be sufficient. However, for more extensive tasks, you might find yourself swapping batteries frequently.

Dust Collection

One of the standout features of this sander is its dust collection system. The included dust canister with a filter does a commendable job of capturing fine particles, keeping your workspace cleaner. It also comes with a universal hose adapter, which is a great addition if you want to hook it up to a shop vac for even better dust management.

That said, the dust canister itself has its quirks. It’s made of plastic and can be a bit finicky to snap into place. I found that it sometimes popped open unexpectedly, which can be frustrating. It’s also relatively small, so you’ll need to empty it frequently during larger projects.

Usability and Comfort

Ergonomics are where this sander falls a bit short. The bulkiness of the tool, combined with the weight of the battery, makes it less comfortable for prolonged use. The on/off switch is also awkwardly placed, making it hard to operate with one hand. This might not be a deal-breaker for everyone, but it’s something to consider if you plan on using the sander for extended periods.

On the plus side, the tool offers multiple grip options, allowing you to hold it from the top or the side, depending on what feels more comfortable for you. The variable speed control is easy to adjust, and the sander runs relatively quietly, which is always a bonus.

Versatility and Applications

This sander excels on flat surfaces and is great for tasks like refinishing furniture, sanding down large panels, or prepping surfaces for painting. However, its bulkiness makes it less suitable for tight corners or intricate work. If you have a project that requires getting into hard-to-reach areas, you might find yourself needing a smaller, more maneuverable sander.

Durability and Longevity

Milwaukee is known for making durable tools, and this sander is no exception. Despite its quirks, it feels like it’s built to last. I didn’t encounter any issues with the hook-and-loop pad, which held the sanding discs securely throughout my testing. However, some users have reported problems with the pad wearing out quickly, so it’s something to keep an eye on.

Final Thoughts and Recommendation

The Milwaukee Random Orbit Sander is a solid tool with a lot of great features. Its variable speed control, good dust collection, and cordless convenience make it a valuable addition to any workshop. However, it’s not without its drawbacks. The bulkiness and weight can make it uncomfortable for extended use, and the dust canister could use some improvements.

Would I recommend this tool? Yes, but with reservations. If you’re a professional or a serious DIYer who needs a powerful, versatile sander and can deal with its ergonomic shortcomings, this tool is worth considering. However, if you’re looking for something lightweight and easy to handle for smaller, more detailed projects, you might want to explore other options.

In summary, the Milwaukee Random Orbit Sander is a capable tool that delivers on many fronts but has room for improvement, particularly in terms of ergonomics and dust collection. If you can live with those limitations, it’s a reliable and powerful sander that should serve you well for a variety of tasks.