Bosch 1274DVS 3" x 21" Belt Sander
- Tools and Accessory Type: Power Tools
- Overview
-
Reviews
- Compare Prices
User ReviewRead All Reviews »
473
Good but not great
Pros
Easy belt change, good balance, accurate belt tracking, powerful, moderate dust pickup
Cons
weight
Recommended it?
Yes
The Bottom Line:
For regular use and good results in difficult situations it is a good machine. I recommend it in comparison to others in the same or lower price range.
I have had this sander for over two years now and use it fairly regularly for sanding flat surfaces and occasional edge sanding. I had to replace the variable-speed switch at about a year-and-a-half. When it is set below maximum speed, the handle around it gets hot and it eventually burns out. If you want longer life and a cooler hand, keep it at full speed except when you must have a lower speed. When I ordered the new switch from the Baltmore, MD Skil/Bosch Service Center, the first one that came was the wrong one. A phone call got the right (more expensive one) shipped immediately at no additional cost. I really appreciate that kind of service.
Material removal is fast and the balance of the machine minimizes gouging when you use it properly. It is very aggressive and can get away from you if you let your attention wander. I have the optional guide I use on large flat surfaces. I took a small (6'X10'} hardwood floor down to smooth bare wood in about an hour using this.
Like most good sanders, it makes a lot of sanding dust. The supplied bag collects maybe thirty percent of it and the rest fills the shop and your lungs if you aren't using breathing protection. I have the optional dust collector hose and this brings the effective pickup closer to seventy-five percent.
When I change belts I set the tracking and then run it a couple of minutes before adjusting the tracking for the stretched belt. This is normal for belt sanders and the Bosch is as good as any at tracking. The platen is just now beginning to show signs of wear. I expect it will need replacing next year. The slick material on it has helped lengthen its life and I recommend it.
When this one goes, I would replace it with another just like it. I particularly like the low profile of the inline drive and the ease of belt changes. I am also impressed with the service from the Service Center. My main concern is the heat generated by the variable speed control when it is set for lower speeds. The price is reasonable considering the quality of the machine.
Material removal is fast and the balance of the machine minimizes gouging when you use it properly. It is very aggressive and can get away from you if you let your attention wander. I have the optional guide I use on large flat surfaces. I took a small (6'X10'} hardwood floor down to smooth bare wood in about an hour using this.
Like most good sanders, it makes a lot of sanding dust. The supplied bag collects maybe thirty percent of it and the rest fills the shop and your lungs if you aren't using breathing protection. I have the optional dust collector hose and this brings the effective pickup closer to seventy-five percent.
When I change belts I set the tracking and then run it a couple of minutes before adjusting the tracking for the stretched belt. This is normal for belt sanders and the Bosch is as good as any at tracking. The platen is just now beginning to show signs of wear. I expect it will need replacing next year. The slick material on it has helped lengthen its life and I recommend it.
When this one goes, I would replace it with another just like it. I particularly like the low profile of the inline drive and the ease of belt changes. I am also impressed with the service from the Service Center. My main concern is the heat generated by the variable speed control when it is set for lower speeds. The price is reasonable considering the quality of the machine.
