Rotary usage with side handle

RAG · 10-05-06, 06:19

I was just wondering how many people use the plastic side handle (or top-mounted handle) versus griping the rotary polisher directly. Not to "load" the responses, but it sure seems to me that the side handle was designed for high-torque grinding type work and ultimately for polishing yields less control.

On a side note, I'm baffled by the purpose of the adaptors that put excessive space (like 4"+) between the backing plate and the buffer. What's the point? In my experience, you gain more control by having a lower profile setup with the pad closer to the buffer...only makes sense.

tsbrewers · 10-05-06, 06:39

I think the handle is a matter of prefference. I like using it.

I also think the stand-off is better to get into tight areas. just a guess though.

Brew

RAG · 10-05-06, 06:46

Quote:

Originally Posted by tsbrewers

I think the handle is a matter of prefference. I like using it.

I also think the stand-off is better to get into tight areas. just a guess though.

Brew

Yeah, actually I suspect most people use the handle, but I also suspect most people haven't tried it without the handle, or don't have a polisher that's easy to grip.

As far as getting into tight areas, the only area I ever have difficulty with is direcly below the side mirrors. And yes, the extensions does allow you to get in here better, just don't think the trade off is worth it.

ebpcivicsi · 10-05-06, 06:51

I use the bail style handle on the makitta, though I do polish bareback from time to time. It really depends on the car and my mood.

I am sometimes nervous when using the machine without the handle--scared that my finger might get caught in the "moving parts."

I never understood the extensions either.

I guess for perfect centering it is worth it??

GregCavi · 10-05-06, 06:53

I use the top handle myself. It has always been the most comfortable for me with the makita.

Greg

SpoiledMan · 10-05-06, 07:40

I have a side handle Black & Decker and a bail handle Hitachi. I prefer the bail style handle for less stress on the wrists as well as more control. I can't put my hands directly on the machine for the same reason as EBP!! It's a phobia I guess.

RAG · 10-05-06, 07:46

I tried the bail style when my Makita was new, but I can't say I gave it a fair shake. But I'm probably pretty set in my ways, and with who knows how many thousands of hours polishing "bare back," I've not yet had a problem.

SpoiledMan · 10-05-06, 07:48

What can I say? Some people are scared of the dark!

01bluecls · 10-05-06, 08:03

I use the side handle with my Makita, never tried the other handle.

Accumulator · 10-06-06, 10:06

I can't remember the last time I used my side handle on the Makita...but I think I did use it on some side panels. Sure must've been a long time ago though. But then I don't use the rotary all that often either.

Wonder if I got the extension with mine (and if so, where it is), that could be handy in some cases like under the mirrors.

metal · 10-07-06, 04:43

I use the bail handle on my Makita as well, never tried it bare.

GearHead_1 · 10-07-06, 07:22

I use the side handle on my Makita and like it just fine. I have tried using it without any handle but prefer using it.