Polisher - on the fence!!

[rwh]

OK, I know this has been beaten to death, but I am having a hard time deceiding on a polisher. I have an old Milwaukee buffer I have had for, well, lets say 30 yrs and it still works fine. It's a 1750 rpm with NO speed adjustment. I am now wanting to get a variable speed buffer/polisher. Needless to say, I have buffed out my share of paint over the years. I WAS leaning towards the Dewalt DW 849 and now I am wondering why I don't hear anyone speak of the Milwaukee polisher. Money aside, what are your thoughts on the Milwaukee? I do not do this for a living so I don't think the weight is an issue, for me anyway. No doubt this will be the last one I purchase and I allways seem to drive myself crazy researching before I purchase anything. I do like the handle on the left side so I am not sure I would like the Makita. Anyway, your input/thoughts will be appreciated. I know this is like pretty much anything else and subject to personal preference. Thanks guys

[Wren]

Originally Posted by rwh

I do like the handle on the left side so I am not sure I would like the Makita

FYI, you can put it on either side.

[rwh]

Yes, I know, I was refering to the Makita being held in the center that I am not sure I would like. Kinda like teaching an old dog new tricks, it's just what I am use to.

[alkemyst]

while the handles can be on either side, many also use a palm center position.

On my 7424 I will remove the handle much of the time and place a flanged bolt into each hole to hold the cover solid.

[jesselyons2002]

The makita 9227 comes with two handle. So you can use the side like the pc or the d handle

[the other pc]

I think the only reason the Milwaukee isn’t popular is simply because it’s so heavy. Other than that it’s fine.

Since you’re already used to it another Milwaukee may well be a good choice for you.

You could even just keep using what you have and get an external speed controller.


PC.

[Cassman]

Originally Posted by alkemyst

while the handles can be on either side, many also use a palm center position.

On my 7424 I will remove the handle much of the time and place a flanged bolt into each hole to hold the cover solid.

Good idea! Thanks.

[rwh]

Originally Posted by the other pc

I think the only reason the Milwaukee isn’t popular is simply because it’s so heavy. Other than that it’s fine.

Since you’re already used to it another Milwaukee may well be a good choice for you.

You could even just keep using what you have and get an external speed controller.


PC.

Very good idea. BUT, if I do that, then I can't spend the money, I won't have a new toy to mess around with and the wife won't get mad at me for spending money, that would be out of character.

[jetset4me]

I have a Milwaukee 5540 and it's built like a tank, but it's heavy. I would not part with it for any other brand. The quick disconnect cord is a plus if you have other Milwaukee products.

[rwh]

THANKS for the response. The 5540 is the one I am eyeballing along with the Dewalt DW849. I guess they are both considered heavy as I THINK the 5540 is 8.8lbs and the 849 is 8.2lbs (give or take). Being an old Milwaukee guy without a variable speed buffer, I have been doing a LITTLE research and correct me if I'm wrong, but isn't most of the buffing/polishing done somewhere between 1000 & 1800 rpm. IF that is the case, do I really need to be concerened about rpms over 1800 and I am stricly talking about buffing and polishing.

[icu812]

check this one out very good price
NEW SP18VA Hitachi 7" Sander/Polisher Tool - eBay (item 110230643527 end time Apr-04-08 08:59:51 PDT)

[jesselyons2002]

What the speed range on the hitachi. Is the only difference the hitachi is different then the makita is the warranty.