Craftsman 1-in x 5-in Belt and Disc Benchtop Sander

When I first got my hands on the Craftsman 1-in x 5-in Belt and Disc Benchtop Sander (model CMXXSAX69434608), I was eager to put its capabilities to the test. This sander combines a 1x30 belt sander with a 5-inch disc sander, making it a versatile addition to any woodworking setup. Here’s an in-depth look at my experience with this tool and why it stands out in the crowded market of benchtop sanders.

Build Quality

One of the first things I noticed about this sander is its robust build quality. It’s solidly constructed with minimal use of plastic, which is a huge plus in my book. The main components are made of cast aluminum, which provides both durability and stability. The machine has a substantial footprint, which might take up more bench space than you’d expect, but this also contributes to its stability during operation.

Setup and Ease of Use

Setting up the Craftsman sander was straightforward. The table and sanding disc paper were the only components that needed to be attached, and this was accomplished quickly using the provided hex key. Adjusting the sanding belt from vertical to horizontal positions is also simple, involving the loosening of just one hex bolt. This ease of adjustment makes it convenient to switch between different sanding tasks without wasting time.

Performance

The heart of this machine is its 3/4 HP motor that draws 6 amps of current. This motor powers the disc at speeds of up to 3600 RPM and the belt at 3160 FPM (feet per minute). These speeds are more than adequate for a range of small woodworking projects. I found the motor to be consistently powerful, with no noticeable lag or reduction in performance even during prolonged use.

Both the belt and disc sanders excel at handling a variety of materials. I’ve used this sander on wood, plastic, and even some metal pieces, and it performed admirably on all fronts. The disc sander is particularly useful for smoothing out flat surfaces, while the belt sander excels at contouring and shaping curved surfaces.

Dust Collection

Dust control is often a significant concern with sanders, but the Craftsman model handles this well. The built-in dust collection system efficiently gathers the majority of the dust generated during sanding, keeping my workspace cleaner and reducing the amount of airborne particles. However, for optimal performance, I’d recommend connecting it to a dedicated shop vac or dust collection system.

Table and Adjustments

The interchangeable 45-degree tilting cast aluminum table is another standout feature. This allows for precise angle sanding, which is crucial for many woodworking projects. The table adjusts smoothly and locks securely into place, ensuring that your workpiece stays steady during operation.

One of the most convenient aspects of this sander is the tool-less belt change. Changing the sanding belt is a breeze, requiring no additional tools—just flip a lever, slide the old belt off, and slip the new one on. This quick and easy process minimizes downtime and keeps you focused on your project.

Size and Portability

As previously mentioned, this sander has a larger footprint than some other benchtop models. While this contributes to its stability, it also means that you’ll need ample bench space to accommodate it. If you’re working in a compact workshop, you might need to rearrange your setup to make room for this sander.

Final Thoughts and Recommendation

In conclusion, the Craftsman 1-in x 5-in Belt and Disc Benchtop Sander is a robust, versatile, and easy-to-use tool that excels in small woodworking projects. Its solid build quality ensures durability, while the powerful motor provides consistent performance. The dust collection system is effective, and the interchangeable table allows for precise angle sanding.

The only potential drawback is its larger footprint, which may require some workshop rearrangement. However, the benefits far outweigh this minor inconvenience. Given its performance, build quality, and ease of use, I would highly recommend this sander to both amateur and professional woodworkers. It offers excellent value for the price and is a reliable addition to any workshop.