M18 RANDOM ORBIT SANDER.
I think we can all agree that sanding isn’t one of the most enjoyable parts of woodworking, but it’s one that needs done. And, when it comes to sanding, a random orbital sander is the most efficient choice. The sander you see here is from Milwaukee’s line of “FUEL” products, and it’s certainly in line with what I expect from Milwaukee: a high-quality, battery-powered tool.
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| The hook-and-loop interface makes switching between sanding pads a quick and painless procedure. | This orbital sander is a great go-to for small parts like this door, and attaching the hose makes it useful for larger ones as well. |
PERFORMANCE.
In terms of sheer performance, this sander is on par with other reliable brands. Though it has five speed settings for a variety of work, the fifth setting is where most wood sanding will take place. The dust bag you see attached in the photos here works well for smaller projects, while the hose adapter allows it to be hooked to a vacuum for larger pieces.
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| The sander offers five speeds. The fifth setting (12,000 orbits per minute) is ideal for most woodworking. | The quick-release levers on the bag and hose conduit simply snap in place, making them easy to attach and detach as needed. |
BATTERY-POWERED SANDING.
This sander uses Milwaukee’s M18 batteries, and I think this is where most people will notice differences in performance and longevity. A smaller battery like the CP2.0 would be fine for a couple doors or drawers, but not a whole cabinet. I used the mid-sized XC5.0 battery and found that gave me plenty of life. So, if you don’t mind the caveats of a battery-powered sander, then the M18 FUEL Random Orbit Sander is a convenient and effective option.
