Milwaukee Random Orbit Sander

The Milwaukee 2648-21 Random Orbit Sander is a tool that combines power, portability, and practicality, striving to meet the diverse needs of both hobbyists and professionals. Having used this sander extensively across various projects, I've gathered a comprehensive perspective on its strengths and weaknesses.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing I noticed about this sander is its robust build. Milwaukee is known for producing durable tools, and this one is no exception. The sander feels solid in hand, with a weight of 2 lbs that strikes a balance between being lightweight for maneuverability and heavy enough to remain stable during use. However, the design isn’t perfect. The sander’s bulkiness, especially when fitted with a larger battery, can make it unwieldy for extended use or in tight spaces. The ergonomics could use some refinement, as the grip can feel awkward, particularly when you need to maneuver the tool in various positions.

Performance

Equipped with a variable speed control ranging from 7,000 to 12,000 OPM, this sander offers versatility for different materials and sanding stages. The variable speed dial is an excellent feature, allowing for precise control depending on the task. During my usage, I found the sander performed admirably on flat surfaces, providing a smooth and even finish. It excelled in tasks such as sanding down furniture and preparing surfaces for painting.

One notable point is the power of the sander. When using a 3.0Ah or higher battery, the tool maintains consistent power, allowing for efficient sanding. However, the runtime is a mixed bag. While the sander can run for up to 35 minutes with a 3.0Ah battery, this is under optimal conditions. Heavier tasks can drain the battery more quickly, sometimes in as little as 15 minutes. For longer projects, having multiple batteries on hand is essential.

Dust Collection

Dust collection is a critical aspect of any sander, and Milwaukee has put thought into this with the inclusion of a dust canister and a universal hose adapter. The dust canister does a decent job of collecting dust, but it's not without its flaws. The plastic construction feels flimsy and can be prone to breaking if dropped. Additionally, the dust canister’s capacity is somewhat limited, requiring frequent emptying during extended use. The universal hose adapter, however, is a game-changer. Connecting the sander to a shop vacuum significantly improves dust collection, keeping the work area cleaner and reducing airborne particles.

Usability

Usability is where the Milwaukee 2648-21 shows both its strengths and weaknesses. The tool’s compact size allows it to get into tight spaces, a significant advantage over many corded models. The balance of the tool, especially with a mid-sized battery, is generally good, making it easy to control. However, the on/off switch is awkwardly placed, making it difficult to operate with one hand. This can be a minor inconvenience but becomes noticeable during prolonged use.

The hook and loop sanding pad mechanism is straightforward, but there have been instances where the pads lose their grip prematurely, sending them flying off during operation. This issue can be frustrating and disrupt the workflow. Milwaukee’s customer service is responsive in addressing these concerns, but it’s a problem that ideally should not occur in the first place.

Comparison to Corded Models

Comparing this cordless sander to its corded counterparts, the Milwaukee 2648-21 holds its ground in terms of power and performance. The convenience of being cordless cannot be overstated, particularly for projects that require mobility or are far from power outlets. However, the trade-off is the limited runtime and slightly reduced power under heavy loads. For professional use, this tool is excellent for quick tasks and touch-ups, but for extensive sanding jobs, a corded model might still be the preferred choice.

Pros and Cons

Pros:
- Robust build quality
- Variable speed control
- Effective dust collection with a vacuum
- Portable and good for tight spaces
- Long-lasting battery life under moderate use

Cons:
- Bulky and heavy with larger batteries
- Awkward on/off switch placement
- Limited dust canister capacity
- Hook and loop pad grip issues
- Flimsy dust canister construction

Final Recommendation

Would I recommend the Milwaukee 2648-21 Random Orbit Sander? The answer is yes, but with some reservations. For DIY enthusiasts and professionals who already invest in Milwaukee’s M18 system, this sander is a valuable addition. Its performance on flat surfaces and the convenience of a cordless design make it a versatile tool for various projects.

However, if you require a sander for continuous, heavy-duty tasks, the limitations in battery life and some design flaws might be a hindrance. In such cases, a corded model or a different brand might serve you better.

In conclusion, the Milwaukee 2648-21 is a powerful, well-built tool that excels in many areas but isn’t without its shortcomings. It offers the freedom of cordless operation with the reliability and performance Milwaukee is known for, making it a solid choice for most sanding needs.