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Be careful. I love this tool and it has made woodworking faster and more exacting for me The variable speed and easy to reach on/off switch are other parts of this tool that I found useful. Another joy was in how easy it was to attach the sand paper to the surface. After reading the safety manual (yeah I know, a guy reading a safety manual)., I was delighted to find that I could attach my shop vac to the unit. This tool comes ready to use right out of the box. This helped eliminate the dust associated with sanding. And the instructions weren't kidding when it said this tool can remove lots of material quickly.
It will be useful when (if ever) I locate an adapter for my 2" dust collector's LOCK LINE hose. Aside from a couple of features the DeWalt lacked (vacuum hose attachments, bayonet-fit on dust collector, self-stopping) there is very little difference. Porter-Cable 343VSK 5-Inch Variable Speed Random Orbit Sander - Hook & Loop PadAfter many years of hard service I replaced my trusty old DeWalt 5" RO sander with a new Porter Cable 343VS. To-date I'm very pleased with the PC's performance. I bought the PC for its vacuum hose capability, and I bought PC's 1" flex hose kit.
This is the only reason why I have given this model 4 instead of 5 stars (seems like an engineering problem).The unit comes in a nice case. I have used the variable speed feature in almost every job I have done and find this feature to be extremely useful. However, putting a hose attachment to a dust collector will take care of the majority of these issues. This one, in my opinion, does it all and will keep you happy.
I can't think of any reason why I would want to pay $20 less in order to get the same model without the variable speed function. However, I needed a new one and noted the 333VS has been replaced by this one.First, fit and finish are slightly different than the old 333VS. My suggestion is to get a sander with the variable speed function versus one without.Finally, it is nice to see Porter Cable still makes a good product that will last for the consumer. So, if you have smaller hands, this might be a consideration to keep in mind.The dust collection is about the same as the previous model. The three previous models, 333VS, still work and do a great job. The top handle cap is indeed a little bit larger, but I am able to handle it well even with my small hands. I have had to duct tape or masking tape on the dust collector as it would continue to fall off while sanding, or the dust would find ways to escape from the canister. Mine is rarely in the case as I use it quite a bit.
I have purchased several different manufacturers versions of a variable speed random orbit sander and have never been truly satisfied. Well, this is my fourth Porter Cable variable speed random orbit sander. I have had to search and search for units that I can use properly as my hands are not as big as my woodworking friends. The variable speed settings only add to the versatility of this unit.
It jumps all over the place and you can't get a consistent finish. One gripe I have is the variable speed. Otherwise I like it though I wish I saved my money and bought the fixed speed version. When the sander is off the workpiece, it does not spin. I can't use it inside unless hooked up to a shop vac which makes trying to control it a PITA. When turned down below the highest setting it is just about impossible to use the sander.
The dust collector is worthless. The pad brake actually works unlike other manufacturers claims. You can have it running and switch to another piece without marring it. I just switch to hand sanding at this point.
The dust collection is good as is, hook up a vacuum and it is virtually dust free. Excellent performance at a great price. The convenience of hook & loop, dust collection, great price, hard case, and a good orbital sander to boot.
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