wrote
"Max" wrote:
My Elu 3 X 21 belt sander bit the dust, (heh-heh)
Recommendations for a replacement?
My gratitude will be undying.
(dust collection will be a significant feature)

Max

I have a Makita 4x24 belt sander. Its a good sander I guess.
Powerful. LONG cord. OK dust collection I guess. Belt tracks well.
But of all the tools I've bought over the years, the belt sander fits
into the "I wish I would not have bought it" category. Just not all
that ueful for me. I have hand planes that can smooth a surface far
quicker and easier.

I have the Bosch 1276DVS 4 X 24 belt sander. It gets very little use but
when I need it, it's irreplaceable. I'm looking for a 3X21.
I find that size to be ideal when I need to take off a little end grain on
a corner of a box, etc. that didn't end up perfectly flat.
I have a 16" planer that can smooth a surface pretty good. My problem with
hand planes is sharpening them. I don't have the patience.
I have a great respect for those who can do wonders with "old fashioned"
tools but I'm not a big fan of "neander" methods.
My philosophy is "get it 'right' but get it done".

Max