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This unit is relatively quiet, and thanks to makita's efficient and powerful motors acts stronger than its amperage rating. The dust bag is also removable. Belts change quickly and easily, and variable speed control lets you select the best speed for the job. Another great feature is the 16' cord, allowing for maneuverability not found in most corded powertools. Works great. If you don't buy this, a Bosch should be your next choice.
Purchased this sander from Toolbarn after suffering with my old Dewalt DW433. Smoooth and powerfull. The saw was delivered in a three days in excellent condition. This sander sounds ten times quieter than the Dewalt it replaced. Excellent dust collection. Best belt sander I've every used - including several Porter Cables, which are much hearview and noisier.
Twice before I have bought Reconditioned tools from DeWalt and they both were delivered as practically brand new. This sander is clearly meant for a left handed operator. Not so with this Makita. The support inside the dust bag is in the way for a right handed person. I had the misfortune of buying this reconditioned from Makita and honestly it looks more Used than reconditioned. I believe that I may return it and go for the Porter Cable. Even though the PC is heavier the ergonomics seem better for me.
The makita weighs about 8 pounds I think. Nice and light, and the 4" width is great for leveling 4" wide lumber. I love the belt tracking adjustment and the variable speed. Don't even think about using the Porter Cable on a vertical surface. If you want a really light and mobile sander, the 5 pound Makita 9911 can't be beat, but it uses 3X18 belts and I like the 4" width. Slow speed is almost like hand blocking, high speed really takes off lots of material.
The 9404 is hard to find in stores, I had to order it from Tool Crib. Dust collection is better than average. Only improvement would be to include a case, but none of the belt sanders that I looked at had a case. I've had it about a year now. The other 4 X 24 belt sander that I have used is the Porter Cable 362, but it weighs 20 pounds and it's like sanding with a Buick. You won't be dissapointed.
Makita belt sanders seem quieter than most.
This is the best belt sander I have used. It is not too heavy and is easy to control. I use the variable speed control so that I can control just how much it is sanding or taking off, great feature.
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