Black & Decker Electric Detail Sander

The Black & Decker Electric Detail Sander, model BDEMS600, has certainly made an impression on me. This compact, corded sander boasts a 1.2 Amp motor delivering 16,000 orbits per minute, making it a promising tool for detailed sanding and refinishing projects. Its small size allows it to access tight spaces and corners effectively, which is a significant advantage for intricate work.

One of the standout features of this sander is its three-position grip, which offers increased control and comfort during use. The comfort grip is well-designed, and the sander feels balanced and easy to maneuver, even during extended periods of use. This is particularly beneficial for users who might find larger sanders cumbersome or difficult to handle.

The dust collection canister is another thoughtful addition, aimed at minimizing debris and keeping the workspace clean. In practice, however, I found that the dust collection system could be more effective. The canister tends to vibrate loose during operation, which can be frustrating and lead to more cleanup than anticipated. This is a minor inconvenience, but one that could be improved upon in future iterations of the tool.

The hook-and-loop system for sandpaper changes is a practical feature, simplifying the process of switching out sandpaper. This system works well with the main sanding pad, ensuring that the sandpaper stays securely in place during use. However, the detail finger attachment, designed for hard-to-reach areas, presents some challenges. The attachment is a brilliant concept, allowing for precision sanding in nooks and crannies. But the execution leaves something to be desired. The attachment tends to loosen or even break off during use, especially under prolonged or intense sanding. This significantly limits its utility and can be a source of frustration.

Power-wise, the sander performs adequately for light to medium tasks. It’s not designed for heavy-duty sanding, and this is evident in its performance. For tasks like refinishing furniture or preparing small surfaces, it does the job well. The motor is reasonably powerful for its size, but the lack of adjustable speed settings can be a drawback for users who need more control over the sanding intensity.

Durability is another area of concern. While some users have reported the sander lasting through multiple projects, others have experienced issues with the tool breaking down prematurely. Common problems include the front pad coming loose, the dust collector falling apart, and the power cord developing shorts. These issues suggest that the build quality could be more robust, particularly given the demands of detailed sanding work.

One of the more significant drawbacks of this sander is the availability of replacement parts, particularly the sandpaper for the detail finger attachment. Finding compatible sandpaper can be a challenge, and this limits the sander’s practicality. Black & Decker could improve user experience by ensuring that replacement parts are readily available and easy to source.

Despite these drawbacks, there are aspects of the Black & Decker Electric Detail Sander that I appreciate. Its compact size, ease of use, and affordability make it an attractive option for hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts. It’s a handy tool for small projects and detailed work, provided that users are aware of its limitations and are prepared to handle some of the quirks and potential issues.

In conclusion, would I recommend the Black & Decker BDEMS600 Electric Detail Sander? It depends on your needs and expectations. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, lightweight sander for occasional use and small projects, this tool could be a good fit. Its ease of use and ability to reach tight spaces are definite advantages. However, if you require a more durable, heavy-duty sander for frequent use or larger projects, you might want to consider investing in a higher-end model with better build quality and more reliable performance. The Black & Decker BDEMS600 has its merits, but it also has its limitations, and it’s important to weigh these factors before making a purchase.