Some models of finish sanders have one or two speeds or can be variable and have 3 or more speeds. This is vital when you are doing finishing work on a project and it allows you greater control over the amount of wood being sanded. Typically the sander will only operate in a forwards or backward motion. This linear motion eliminates the swirl marks (pigtails) that orbital and random orbital sanders can leave behind. Finish sanders will use sandpaper in sizes from one-half sheet all the way down to as small as one-sixth of a sheet.

“Mouse” finish sanders differ from the usual square or rectangular shaped finish sanders by having an angled sanding head, think clothes iron shape. These finishers allow you to get into the corners of your projects with ease. It also lets you sand down those oddly shaped items, and to sand seams and small, tight spots. For the last 20+ years, Black+Decker has been a mainstay for the mouse sanders. One of their current models the BDEMS600 offers a dust collection canister, hook and loop (Velcro) pad attachment, a detail finger attachment, and a 1.2 amp motor that generates over 16,000 orbits per minute. For lighter work, Black +Decker also makes the BDEMS200C which has the same features as the BDEMS600 but only does 14,000 opm.

And if you want to go all out you can purchase the Black+Decker Model MS2000. This model has 3 interchangeable sanding bases, detailed, random orbital, and finishing. It also has a detail finger like other models. The bases interchange quickly with the push of a button and with the smart select technology you can select the material you are sanding via a dial and the tool will adjust to the right speed for the project. The smart select dial also displays a color that corresponds to a base with the same color so that you know you’re using the right type of sander.

Our research into finish sanders is ongoing and we’ve only covered one brand in this article. So would like to hear your feedback on other brands of finish sander. Have you found one brand holds up better or works faster than another? Or maybe you have other feedback on finish sanders that you would like to share with us. Either way, you can fill out the form at the bottom of the page to submit any feedback you have.