Craftsman Benchtop Sander

Owning a benchtop sander is often a game-changer for anyone serious about woodworking or metalworking. I recently had the chance to put the Craftsman CMXXSAX69434607 Benchtop Sander to the test, and the experience was quite enlightening.

Initial Impressions

Straight out of the box, the Craftsman sander strikes you with its solid build. Unlike many other tools in this category that are laden with flimsy plastic parts, this model boasts robust construction with minimal plastic. The assembly was straightforward. In just a few steps, I attached the table and the adhesive-backed sanding disc, and I was all set to start my first project.

Performance

The heart of this sander is its 7.5 Amp direct-drive motor, which effortlessly churns out up to 1725 rotations per minute. This is more than adequate for a wide range of sanding applications, from rough shaping to fine finishing. The motor's power translates into consistent performance, even when dealing with tougher materials like oak or metal.

The large aluminum table, measuring 17 1/4" x 6", provides ample support for your workpiece. The table's stability is one of its standout features, allowing you to apply even pressure without worrying about wobbling or tipping. The table is also tiltable from 0 to 45 degrees, which is incredibly useful for sanding beveled edges. This adjustability adds a layer of versatility, making the sander suitable for a variety of projects.

Usability

Adjusting the sanding belt is surprisingly simple. All it takes is loosening a hex bolt with the provided hex key to move the belt drive either vertically or horizontally. This is a thoughtful addition, as it allows you to adapt the tool to suit your specific needs without any hassle.

One aspect that should be noted is the tool's footprint. The sander is quite large, so you will need a substantial amount of bench space to accommodate it. However, this is a small trade-off considering the tool's capabilities and performance.

Dust Management

Anyone who has spent time sanding knows that dust can be a significant nuisance. Thankfully, the Craftsman sander comes equipped with a 1.5" dust port. When connected to a shop vac, the dust port does an excellent job of keeping your workspace relatively clean. This is not only beneficial for maintaining a tidy work area but also crucial for your health, as prolonged exposure to fine dust particles can be harmful.

Build Quality

The build quality of this sander is impressive. The use of durable materials gives it a sturdy feel, and the minimal use of plastic components ensures that it can withstand the rigors of heavy use. The attention to detail in its construction is evident, from the smooth operation of the motor to the ease of adjusting the belt and table.

Practical Applications

I tested the sander on various materials, including softwoods, hardwoods, and metal. In each case, the sander performed admirably. For woodworking, it handled everything from shaping rough cuts to providing a smooth finish on edges and surfaces. When it came to metalworking, the sander was equally effective, removing burrs and smoothing out rough edges with ease.

The ability to tilt the table also proved invaluable. Whether I was working on beveled edges or complex shapes, the adjustability allowed me to achieve precise results without the need for additional tools or fixtures.

Final Thoughts

The Craftsman CMXXSAX69434607 Benchtop Sander is a robust, high-performance tool that is well-suited for both hobbyists and professionals. Its powerful motor, stable table, and effective dust management make it a reliable addition to any workshop. While its large footprint may be a consideration for those with limited space, the benefits far outweigh this minor inconvenience.

Recommendation

I wholeheartedly recommend the Craftsman Benchtop Sander. Its combination of power, versatility, and build quality makes it a valuable asset for anyone involved in sanding applications. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a DIY enthusiast, this sander is likely to exceed your expectations and become a staple in your workshop. The ease of use, coupled with its effective dust control and robust construction, ensures that it will deliver consistent, high-quality results for years to come.