Ryobi 8 PC. Drum Sander Drill Attachment Set

Sanding intricate shapes and irregular contours can often be a challenge, but the Ryobi 8 PC. Drum Sander Drill Attachment Set promises to make this job easier. With various grit sanding sleeves and a straightforward design, it aims to be a go-to tool for DIY enthusiasts and professional woodworkers alike. I had the opportunity to put this set to the test, and here's a comprehensive look at its performance.

First Impressions

Upon unboxing the Ryobi Drum Sander Set, I was immediately impressed with how neatly everything was packaged. The set includes a drum sander attachment, multiple sanding sleeves in 80, 120, and 220 grits, and a wrench for securing the sanding sleeves to the drum. The 1/4" hex shank makes it compatible with most drills and impact drivers, which is a nice touch for versatility.

Assembly and Ease of Use

The drum sander was relatively easy to assemble. The instructions were clear, and the included wrench made it simple to secure the sanding sleeves to the drum. The sleeve installation process involves holding the drum in one hand while loosening the nut with the other, allowing the rubber drum to contract and hold the sleeve tightly. This process was straightforward, and I didn’t encounter any issues initially.

Performance in Action

I started with some rough-cut wood pieces that needed shaping and smoothing. Utilizing the 80 grit sleeve, I began removing the bulk material. The drum sander performed well, cutting through the wood efficiently. When it came time to switch to the 120 grit for finer sanding, the changeover was quick and easy, just as advertised.

The 220 grit sleeve was perfect for the final finish, providing a smooth surface ready for staining or painting. The variety of grits included in the set allows for a comprehensive sanding process from start to finish.

Portability and Versatility

One of the standout features of this drum sander set is its portability. Unlike a stationary spindle sander, the Ryobi attachment can be used with a handheld drill, making it ideal for getting into tight spots and working on small projects. I found this particularly useful when sanding the contours of wooden toys and other intricate shapes.

Durability Concerns

While the initial performance was impressive, I did encounter some issues with the durability of the components. After a few uses, the nut designed to tighten the sanding sleeves began to show signs of wear. The threads on the nut and the drum started to strip, making it difficult to secure the sleeves properly. This was a significant drawback, as it rendered the tool unusable without some makeshift fixes.

Material Quality

The quality of materials used in the Ryobi drum sander set is a mixed bag. The sanding sleeves themselves are robust and perform well over multiple uses. However, the nuts and bolts used to secure the sleeves are made from softer metals, which contribute to the stripping issues I encountered. This seems to be a recurring problem, as the threads tend to fail after minimal use.

Safety and User Experience

In terms of safety, the drum sander performed adequately. However, caution is needed when using it, especially at higher RPMs, to avoid kickbacks. Always ensure the sleeves are securely tightened to prevent them from slipping off during operation.

Value for Money

Priced reasonably, the Ryobi drum sander set offers good value for the assortment of sanding grits and the convenience of portability. Nonetheless, the durability issues with the tightening mechanism detract from its overall value. Frequent replacements or makeshift fixes could offset the initial cost savings.

Final Thoughts

The Ryobi 8 PC. Drum Sander Drill Attachment Set has the potential to be a valuable addition to any workshop, especially for those who work on detailed and intricate projects. Its ease of use, variety of grit options, and compatibility with standard drills make it a versatile tool. However, the durability issues with the nut and bolt mechanism are a significant drawback.

Recommendation

Would I recommend the Ryobi drum sander set? With reservations. If you’re a hobbyist or a DIY enthusiast who needs a portable solution for occasional use, this set could be a convenient and cost-effective option. However, for professional woodworkers or those who require a more durable and reliable tool for frequent use, the durability issues may outweigh the benefits. In such cases, investing in a higher-quality, more robust drum sander might be a better long-term solution.