Porter Cable 505 or Bosch 1293D ??

[Brian Frances]

Hi Folks,
I am in the market for a good 1/2 sheet sander since my porter cable 505 just died. Since I had bought it used and don't know what had been through before, I don't want to pass judgement on whether it is any good. Therefore, I am up in the air between replacing it with another Porter cable 505 or pickup the Bosch 1293D. Does anyone have any experience on any of these?

Thanks

[Larry Edgerton]

If you have enough air compressor consider a Hutchins Random Orbit Board Sander. Much faster, sands flatter, and very controlable.

[Brian Frances]

Larry,
Which model are you suggesting?

[Larry Edgerton]

I have both the HUT3800 random, the one I would suggest, priced at $233 and the HUT2000 straight line sander, too aggressive for anything but large flats, at $265.

I would not recommend the 200o unless you have a lot of flats, and take time to learn how to use it. I bought it for auto body work but it works well on wood in some cases.

The HUT 3800 is a sweetheart....

[Cole Dunlay]

I used to visit a lot of cabinet shops and they all used the PC 505 and wouldn't even consider using another sander. However, due to UL regulations the 505 has been discontinued. There are some still out there in the stores so you shouldn't have any trouble locating one.
I don't have any experience with the Bosch.