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This is by far the best buffer I've ever used. The adjustable speed ranges are a great asset. After finding the best speed for your needs, the buffer does not bog down when a losd is placed on it. The boat and cars never looked better.
I just completed using this buffer to compound and glaze the gelcoat on a severly oxidized 30'sailboat. I appreciated plenty of oomph and the constant speed regardless of pressure. The speed adjustment at the thumb and the wrap-around grip were very convenient and I appreciated the ramp up to speed when starting, and the relatively lightweight since I was frequently working off of a ladder and with the buffer over my head.
I just finished buffing and polishing a classic truck. This tool did the trick great. Easy to use, just what you would expect from Makita.
While it isn't exactly the lightest machine (Flex 3403), it is definitely the one with a big range of RPMs. I've had no problem tackling the toughest imperfections in paint while still having the power to "jewel" the paint into another level. When coupled with the correct backing plate, it can do almost any job out there.Pros-lightweight-broad range of RPMs (600-3000rpm)-2 types of handles included-bag is big enough to fit 2 machines-very versatile with different backing plate optionsCons-bail handle gets scratched easily-doesn't come with the foam pad in the pictureOverall its an excellent machine. Perfect for people starting to detail cars.
Construction work is bad for your hearing. Most of the time I use the 300 rpm setting. The motor is powerful with plenty of torque and yet well controlled with the variable speed selector. It is a better tool. I am using foam pads (purchased separately from Palm Beach Automotive) and the wool pads that came with the tool. I compared this with the Porter-Cable machine.
Some reviewers have commented negatively on the handles. The handles are well designed and allow a good range of grips. Seems to be a non-issue for me. Especially nice if you are ambidextrous. This is a good tool. The cord is long but to work around a car I use a 12 ga. extension cord.
Learning curve is not steep. Very important to me is the noise level of any tool. I have owned Makita tools for over 25 years. At all speeds the machine is forgiving. This tool is quieter than many I have used.
I have worked with the tool for periods of 2 to 3 hours without fatigue. This one seems to be of as good quality as my electric 10" miter box (purchased in 1979). I do not intend to use this as a sander and can't comment on how it would work. A few dollars more less do not matter when you will have a tool for the rest of your life.
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