I needed accurate, smooth and reasonably powerful belt sander. Since I own multiple power tools from Makita, and they are simply great (only Bosch tools are equally good); I bought this sander without using trial-and-error approach. I have paid about $150 year ago (it seems all prices for Makita tools on Amazon have substantially gone up).
br /There are sanders that mainly design to remove large quantity of material. This one removes material reasonably well. However, in addition, it has capability for accurate sanding that can be used for woodworking. So, basically this sander can be used by contractors and woodworkers.
br /Tracking of the belt is also easy and consistent.
br /So, as usual, Makita and Bosch rule!
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I have had this router (9902) for a few months now and it has seen pretty heavy use. I'm just a hobbyist, not a contractor, but it is everything I need and more. It is very well built and so far has not had a single, even minor, glitch! The belt tracking adjustment works fabulously! It's quite heavy, bulky and awkward so probably not recommended for those delicate jobs. Then again that's not what it is for! It is meant for quick removal of serious wood and that it does. So much so watch out! Don't let it stand still even for 1 second, it will dig itself a hole before you can blink. That also brings up a trick I learned. Use the finest paper your can find (120??) and go nuts! You will have good control and a perfectly smooth surface ready for finishing in no time at all! pBack to the router I would highly recommend it and if it was stolen I would buy another one without question! High praise indeed! Why did I give it only 4 stars?? Probably cost, [at this price] it's not cheap but does represent very good value! Go buy, one I'm sure you will be happy!