"Jim Swank" writes:

I'm in need of a decent sander in this size. Is there any consensus
which make and model is the best deal?

There is only one I have not been able to destroy, the Porter-Cable 50*
series.

I've destroyed at least 6 or 8 units including the low cost Porter Cable
(Henry Homeowner type) crap.

The 50* is a chain drive and totally bullet proof compared to anything else
in the market.

Bring a fat wallet, it is not inexpensive, but you will only buy a belt
sander once.

These days, figure $450 range.

HTH

Lew

BTW, get the graphite pads for it, you won't be sorry.