Just a quick question

[ironhat]

Will I be better served by a 5" or a 6" ROS? I've never owned a ROS and these two are equally equipped with PS adhesive pads and hook/ loop pads. There's a $50 difference in the price of the two refurbished units ($50 vs $100). Keep in mind that I'm a light use ww'er.

TIA!

[cabinetman]

I prefer a 5" 8 hole type sander, with H&L pads. Easy to handle, lighter, and the sanding discs are usually available in many locations.
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[Stytooner]

I have a 6" and it is a beast. I now use a 5", but I have to use my other hand to hold parts. Small parts. I think for versatility, you can't go wrong with 5". 6" only for production stuff as it requires both hands.

[sweensdv]

+1 on the 5" and H&L pad style.

[WoodTherapist]

Another vote for the 5" for the same reasons already stated. If you are going to own only one ROS, or if it is your first ROS, 5" is the way to go.

[crokett]

I've had both. I prefer 5". Easier to control (can use 1 hand), pads are cheaper and easier to find. If you can get it, get one that lets you hook to a shop vac and doesn't just use a silly bag for dust collection. The vac makes a huge difference in how much dust is left behind.

[capncarl]

I recently aquired a 6" Rigid ros to compliment my wall full of smaller 4" and 5" ros's. After getting nowhere fast with the smaller sanders I pitched a fit and went looking. I bought this one with doubts but knew that it could be returned if it did not perform. I still have it. I have not seen a review of this sander, but it is great. Heavy but great. The on board vac works really well, and fits my larger shop vac hose as well. It works really really fast, has variable speed and 2 osciliation settings. The finish is a good as any other sander that I own. I would definately buy it again.
capncarl

[ironhat]

Thanks for all of the helpful replies. With that info I've made a more involved choice of a Porter-Cable 343KR 5-Inch unit. Very high marks from all reviewers.