Craftsman 6-in x 36-in Belt and Disc Benchtop Sander

There's a unique satisfaction found in woodworking, and the right tools can make all the difference in the quality of your work and the experience itself. I recently had the opportunity to use the Craftsman 6-in x 36-in Belt and Disc Benchtop Sander (CMXXSAX69434606), and I have to say, it’s a tool that impresses on multiple fronts.

Build Quality and Design

First and foremost, the build quality of this sander is robust. It stands out with a minimal use of plastic, opting instead for a more durable construction. It's quite substantial, and while that means it takes up a fair bit of bench space, the heft also translates to stability. When working on any sort of sanding project, stability is key to ensure precision and safety, and this benchtop sander delivers on that front.

Versatility

What I found particularly beneficial was the versatility offered by the dual-functionality of both the belt and disc sander. Whether you’re sanding convex surfaces, beveled angles, or flat pieces, this tool adapts to meet the requirement. The 6x48 inch belt and 9 inch disc provide ample sanding surface area, making it suitable for a wide range of projects.

The belt can be positioned horizontally or vertically, which adds another layer of flexibility. Adjusting the belt position is straightforward—just loosen a hex bolt with the provided hex key, and you can shift between orientations seamlessly. This ease of adjustment is a boon for anyone looking to switch between different types of sanding jobs quickly.

Motor and Performance

Powered by a 3/4 HP motor with a 6 amp rating, this benchtop sander packs a punch. The disc can reach speeds up to 3100 RPM, while the belt can hit up to 2400 FPM. These speeds are more than adequate for most woodworking tasks, from rough shaping to fine sanding.

I found the motor to be consistent and reliable, with no noticeable drops in performance even during prolonged use. The tool-less belt change is another highlight. Swapping out the belt is hassle-free, which means less downtime and more time spent on actual woodworking.

Dust Collection

Dust control is an often overlooked yet critical aspect of any sanding tool. The Craftsman benchtop sander doesn’t disappoint here either. The integrated dust collection system works effectively to capture the majority of dust generated during sanding. This not only keeps your workspace cleaner but also ensures better visibility and less respiratory irritation.

Ease of Use

Setting up the sander was a straightforward affair. Aside from attaching the table and sanding disc paper, there wasn’t much else to it. The instructions are clear and easy to follow, making the initial setup process relatively quick. Once assembled, using the tool is intuitive. The controls are logically placed and responsive.

The interchangeable 45-degree tilting cast aluminum table is another user-friendly feature. It allows for precision sanding at various angles, which is invaluable for projects that require detailed work. I found that this feature made it easier to achieve the exact finish I was aiming for.

Footprint

One thing to note is the substantial footprint of this sander. It’s larger than I initially expected, so you’ll need to ensure you have adequate bench space to accommodate it. However, given its robust performance and versatility, I consider the larger size a worthwhile trade-off.

Conclusion

In my experience, the Craftsman 6-in x 36-in Belt and Disc Benchtop Sander (CMXXSAX69434606) is a stellar addition to any woodworking setup. Its build quality, versatility, and performance make it a tool worth considering. The robust motor, effective dust collection, and ease of use enhance its appeal further.

Would I recommend this tool? Absolutely. If you’re in need of a reliable, versatile, and high-performing benchtop sander, this Craftsman model delivers on all fronts. It’s well-suited for both hobbyists and more serious woodworkers alike. The larger footprint is something to keep in mind, but given the array of features and the quality of its build, it’s a trade-off that pays dividends in functionality and durability.