With so many hand held belt sander brands on the market like Makita, WEN, Metabo HPT, it can be tough to know which one is right for you. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
1. Makita 9031 1-1/8″ x 21″ Belt Sander
Our Rating
- Versatile for use on wood, metal, and fiberglass materials
- Ideal for woodworkers, artists, glaziers, welders, prefinished cabinet installers, and finish carpenters
- Narrow belt and exposed front pulley for use in close quarters or on irregular shapes
- Variable speed control dial (656-3,280 ft./min.) enables user to match the speed to the application
- Lock-on button for continuous operation
2. WEN 6321 7-Amp 3 in. x 21 in. Corded Belt San
Our Rating
- 7-amp motor rotates the belt at over 13 feet per second
- Compact design weighs in at a mere six pounds to limit the fatigue of the user
- Includes a detachable dust bag to minimize clean-up
- Lock-in safety feature allows for continuous sanding without requiring a constant grip on the trigger
- Backed by a two-year warranty and a nationwide network of skilled technicians
3. WEN 6307 Variable Speed Detailing File Sander
Our Rating
- Variable speed dial powers the belt anywhere from 1080 to 1800 feet per minute
- Auto-tracking belt system requires no tensioning or adjustments.Range of Motion:50°
- Pivot the 1/2-by-18-inch belt up to 55 degrees to meet the needs of any project
- Tool-free belt installation makes for quick and easy belt changes during the job
- Includes three abrasive sanding belts, a dust port attachment and a two-year warranty
4. Metabo HPT Belt Sander | 3 x 21 Inch | For Wo
Our Rating
- INCLUDES: SB8V2 Belt Sander, Sanding Belt, Dust Bag
- MOTOR: 9 amp 1,020-watt motor, forcible power for the toughest sanding jobs
- SPEED CONTROL: Variable speed dial at base of handle for various applications and improved manageability
- GREATER VISABILITY: Clear front cover, improves visibility when sanding up against a surface
- DUST COLLECTION: Dust collection bag reduces airborne particles and keeps the work area clean
- DUST COLLECTION: Left-side mounted dust collection bag improves corner sanding applications while reducing airborne particles to keep work area clean
- WARRANTY: Comes with professional 5-year limited warranty
- DESIGN: Flush surface design allows for quick and even sanding
5. Makita 9403 4″ x 24″ Belt Sander, Teal
Our Rating
- Low noise (84dB) for operator comfort
- 4″ wide belt with a speed of 1,640 ft./min. for fast material removal
- Labyrinth construction seals and protects motor and bearings from dust and debris for longer tool life
- Large front grip is positioned for operator comfort
- Innovative design for sanding flush to wall with nose and side of sander
Best hand held belt sander Buying guide
When choosing a hand held belt sander, consider the power, the sanding belt size and speed, the vibration, and the ergonomics.
Power is an important factor to consider. Look for a sander with enough power to handle the job. Most hand held belt sanders have between 2 and 5 amps of power, with higher-end models reaching up to 7 amps.
The size of the sanding belt is also important. Most hand held belt sanders are compatible with belts between 1” and 4” wide. Consider the size of the area you’d be sanding to choose the right size belt.
The speed of the belt is another factor to consider. Make sure the sander you choose has a variable speed control, so you can adjust the speed to the material you’re sanding.
Vibration is another important factor. Look for sanders with vibration dampening technology to make the job easier on your hands.
Finally, ergonomics are important. Look for a sander with a comfortable handle, adjustable front handle, and adjustable dust port. This will allow you to customize the sander to fit your needs.