"bent" wrote:

Its tempting to try my sander but I don't know if I'll need to
measure the job by the sheet or by the machine. I have all 6 edges
and another 30% of the ten boards faces cleared so far, with a
Richard paint scraper - great tool, just keep sharpening with a
file.

Getting rid of an old finish is a total PITA job, IMHO.

My comment about a belt sander was to use it to "break" the finish so
that chemical strippers would have an easier job of getting the task
finished.

I was going to mention a 4", right angle, sander; I have spent a lot
of time with one equipped with 24 grit discs.

Does a great job of cleaning and shaping; however, using it is an
acquired skill.

Just like a belt sander, it can totally destroy a surface, if you are
not careful.

Learn to use it on scrap.

Since you are this far along, my suggestion is to keep that file handy
or buy a carbide paint scraper.

Have fun.

Lew