Dewalt DW849 or Milwaukee 5540 rotary?

[onerareviper]

OK Pro's....

I'm ready to take the jump into the rotary World. The orbital PC is OK, but just takes too long to get the results I desire. My first question deals with equipment. It seems though my searching that the Dewalt DW849 and Milwaukee 5540 are both great products. Therefore, I'm debating which will be better for my use. I would rather spend a little more and buy the best, then settle for an inferior product. Hence, these two rotary buffers.

Here's my info: Realistically, I will probably only use the buffer once a week, although I'm hoping that this is the last buffer I will purchase for 10++ years. I am not in the business, but a car fanatic. The Dewalt can be bought around $50 less than the Milwaukee. Although $50 bucks is no big deal if I can justify the extra cost of the Milwaukee (can I?). Especially since I'm keeping this tool for soooo long.

Has anyone used both? Is the Milwaukee worth the extra $50, in your opinion? Any advantage to either when it comes to buying pads or backing plates (This is very important for my decision)? I've read all the stats, but I'm looking for 'real world' experience from a Pro detailer that used both. I want to get the best and be done with it, then learn the art of using this tool.

Thanks in advance...

P.S. - I'm not really interested in the Makita or PC rotaries. I know they're quality units as well....

[Blk300ZX]

Dewalt is a good choice.

[ShineShop]

Originally posted by onerareviper
OK Pro's....

I'm ready to take the jump into the rotary World. The orbital PC is OK, but just takes too long to get the results I desire. My first question deals with equipment. It seems though my searching that the Dewalt DW849 and Milwaukee 5540 are both great products. Therefore, I'm debating which will be better for my use. I would rather spend a little more and buy the best, then settle for an inferior product. Hence, these two rotary buffers.

Here's my info: Realistically, I will probably only use the buffer once a week, although I'm hoping that this is the last buffer I will purchase for 10++ years. I am not in the business, but a car fanatic. The Dewalt can be bought around $50 less than the Milwaukee. Although $50 bucks is no big deal if I can justify the extra cost of the Milwaukee (can I?). Especially since I'm keeping this tool for soooo long.

Has anyone used both? Is the Milwaukee worth the extra $50, in your opinion? Any advantage to either when it comes to buying pads or backing plates (This is very important for my decision)? I've read all the stats, but I'm looking for 'real world' experience from a Pro detailer that used both. I want to get the best and be done with it, then learn the art of using this tool.

Thanks in advance...

P.S. - I'm not really interested in the Makita or PC rotaries. I know they're quality units as well....

I have been in the business and using both machines for quite some time and I used to feel the Dewalt is the better unit. However, after buying two new Makita units and using them for the last 12 months I feel the Makita leaves the Dewalt in the dust. Ever since Black & Decker changed the buffer to the Dewalt line I have had nothing but problems with my Dewalts (4 consecutive polishers) despite the claims of being made of more heavy duty materials. So far - not one problem with my Makitas in almost a year of 6 days a week polishing all day.

[BradNC]

You might want to also look at the Metabo until. I've heard very good things about the machine from Anthony Orosco. Super light weight, quiet and awesome results.

Brad

[FUEL]

Also give consideration to Porter Cables Rotary I have it and love it. You can get it at CMA

[nielksj]

Makita!

[Jimmy Buffit]

Things are going very well in the new shop, so I thought I would treat myself.

MY Fein rotary arrived today from Coastal.
The size AND weight of a PC. I can buff with one hand... sorta!

It is a very nice tool. Oh, it has a 12' cord! Sometimes it is the simple things that make it better.

[Jimmy Buffit]

oops!