EKASAND RANDOM ORBIT SANDER
Sanding is an inescapable task in woodworking. I doubt it’s anyone’s favorite part of a project, but it’s one that always needs done. And, as such, I find it’s almost always worth taking a look at what new sanding tools are on the market.
EKASAND SANDER.
When Uneeda contacted me about trying out one of their “EKASAND” (or E-series) line of sanders, there were quite a few options to choose from. They produce a variety of detail and orbital sanders, both electric and pneumatic, but I decided to test out their line with the kind of sander I use most often: a 6" electrical random orbit sander.
The motor can be run at four maximum speed settings for different materials, but the top speed of 10,000 RPM serves best for hardwood, and it’s where I imagine most woodworkers will keep theirs set. There is one feature of an orbital sander I consider key that you may notice is missing above. Unbeknownst to me until it arrived, the model I ordered did not come with a vacuum attachment. Uneeda does offer the same model with a vacuum attachment, and I’d strongly recommend it if you’re like me and don’t use a downdraft table.
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| This orbital sander features four speed settings. The top speed (10,000 RPM) is ideal for most hardwoods. | The variable on/off lever adjusts the sanding speed up to its maximum based on the pressure applied. | The E-series sander outputs as much power as any high-end competitor, but with a notably lower pricepoint. |
PERFORMANCE.
In terms of perfomance, the E-series sander certainly puts in the work. There’s no lack of power when it comes to the motor, and the hook and loop pad makes swapping out different grits as you work easy. The variable lever adjusts the RPMs up to the maximum speed setting based on the pressure applied. This lets you ease into the max speed, avoiding scratches that can result from the jerking motion of a sudden start.
One key marketing feature for the E-series sanders is ergonomics. I can say that I do enjoy the shape of the handle, and I prefer a low-profile sander like this. With a weight of about three pounds, this sander is slightly heavier than the average of its competitors, but not so much that it wore me out to use.
ASSESSMENT.
The E-series sander is a useful tool, and is capable of outputting as much power as other high-end electric orbital sanders. Looking at pricepoint, it’s definitely a tool for profesionals, though the E-series line is notably less expensive than many other high-end sanders on the market. If you’re searching for a high-quality detail or orbital sander that won’t break the bank, you won’t go wrong with one of these — just be sure you get one with a vacuum attachment if you need it.
UNEEDA SANDING DISCS
Along with the sander, Uneeda also sent me a combo pack of their sanding discs. These come in two varieties, and are worth a brief look.
PAPER-BACK VS FILM-BACK.
The yellow discs (called EKASTORM) are paper-backed, making for a more affordable disc than their couterparts, and are great for sanding through the lower grits. The blue discs (FILMTEK) have a durable, waterproof film backer. Although they’re pricier, they’re great for sanding with higher grits, between coats of finish, or for doing any wet sanding outside of woodwork.
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| Both kinds of sanding discs can be ordered with either hook and loop backers or PSA backers for vinyl-faced sanders. |
KREG QUICK CLAMPS
VersaGrip Clamps. Whether it’s in the shop or for a quick, DIY project around the house, trigger clamps (or one-handed bar clamps) are one of my favorite tools to have around. Kreg’s VersaGrip clamps shown at left are an excellent choice if you find yourself in want of a set.
They come in 6", 12", 24", and 36" lengths, and the reversible heads allow them to be used as clamps or spreaders as needed. Additionally, these are designed to work with a variety of Kreg jigs, including many of their pocket hole jigs.
