Ryobi Corner Cat Finish Sander

The Ryobi Corner Cat Finish Sander (model P401) is an intriguing addition to any DIY enthusiast's toolkit. As someone who enjoys tackling home improvement projects, I found this tool to be both a blessing and a bit of a challenge. Here's my detailed review based on my hands-on experience.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that caught my eye was the compact and ergonomic design. The sander is lightweight, weighing in at just 1.35 pounds, which makes it easy to maneuver, especially in tight spaces. The unique shape, often referred to as the "cat" shape, is specifically designed to reach corners and other hard-to-reach areas. This feature alone sets it apart from traditional sanders and makes it highly versatile for detailed work.

However, the build quality does have some room for improvement. The on-off switch is placed in a way that it can be easily toggled accidentally, which can be a bit annoying during use. Additionally, the battery design is somewhat flawed. Removing the battery requires a considerable amount of effort, and it feels like it's designed for someone with larger hands. This can be frustrating if you need to switch batteries frequently during a project.

Performance

Performance-wise, the Corner Cat Finish Sander does not disappoint. It operates at a robust 11,000 orbits per minute (OPM), which ensures efficient material removal and a smooth finish. I used it on various surfaces, including wood and drywall, and it performed admirably in all scenarios. The orbital action helps in achieving a swirl-free finish, which is crucial for any sanding project.

One aspect that stood out was its ability to get into tight corners and intricate spaces. I used it for sanding door frames and the inside surfaces of a shelving unit, and it made the job significantly easier compared to a traditional oscillating tool. The compact size and unique shape really shine in these applications.

Comfort and Usability

User comfort is another area where this sander excels. The improved grip design makes it comfortable to hold for extended periods. Despite its lightweight, the tool feels well-balanced, especially when using the P102 battery. However, when using heavier batteries like the P100 or P108, the balance shifts towards the back, making it a bit unwieldy.

One major downside is the lack of an integrated dust collection system. While there is an on-board dust port for an optional dust collection attachment, this accessory is not included with the tool. This omission is quite puzzling, especially since dust collection is crucial for maintaining a clean work environment and ensuring better visibility of the work surface. Finding this optional attachment can be a challenge, especially if you are outside the U.S., which adds to the frustration.

Durability and Longevity

Durability is a mixed bag with this sander. While the tool itself feels sturdy and well-constructed, some users have reported issues with the on-off switch malfunctioning after a few months of use. In my experience, the switch did feel a bit flimsy, and I can see how it might become problematic over time. Additionally, the battery removal issue could potentially cause wear and tear on the latches, impacting the tool's longevity.

Value for Money

When it comes to value for money, the Ryobi Corner Cat Finish Sander offers a lot of bang for your buck, especially if you're already invested in the Ryobi One+ ecosystem. The tool is reasonably priced, and its performance in tight spaces is hard to beat. However, the additional cost of sandpaper pads and the elusive dust collection attachment can add up, making it a bit more expensive in the long run.

Final Thoughts

The Ryobi Corner Cat Finish Sander is a powerful and versatile tool that excels in detailed sanding tasks. Its compact design and high OPM make it a valuable addition to any DIYer's toolkit. However, it does come with a few drawbacks, such as the difficult-to-remove battery and the lack of an included dust collection system. These issues, while not deal-breakers, do impact the overall user experience.

Would I recommend this tool? Yes, but with some reservations. If you need a sander that can get into tight spaces and you're already invested in the Ryobi One+ system, this tool is a solid choice. However, if you require a more balanced tool with integrated dust collection, you might want to consider other options. Overall, the Ryobi Corner Cat Finish Sander is a great tool for specific tasks but may not be the best all-around sander for every user.