16-32 or 22-44

[Jeff Monson]

I've finally made up my mind to buy a drum sander, I am torn between the 16-32 or the 22-44 and I would like some input on which one would be the better choice. The price difference is 300.00 which isnt a deal breaker either way.

[Larry Anderson]

I just got the 16-32 and love it. If the price difference doesn't matter I would say get the 22-44...size does matter.

[doug faist]

Jeff - I used a 16-32 for some time before I realized that almost every door, panel and top I made was more than 18". It was a pain to try and run them through twice, always got that little ridge that had to be dealt with.

I moved up to a Performax 22-44 (when they were still Performax) and never looked back. Pricey, but well worth it in the long run.

Good luck with your decision.

Doug

[Cliff Holmes]

If price isn't that important and size doesn't matter, I'd get the 22/44 just in case I needed it one day (and for bragging rights). I was going to get a 22/44, but then I landed a slightly used 16/32 and a pile of sandpaper for $225!

[Brian Tymchak]

Jeff,

If price really isn't an issue, I suggest going with the 22-44. Sets you up for the future larger project you don't know about yet. Like a dining table top.

If you are looking at Jet models, the 22-44 has a little more horsepower and can handle up to 4" thick stock compared to 3" stock with the 16-32.

I bought the 16-32 when Jet had their recent 15% off sale. Really wanted to get the in/out feed tables as well, but they are fixed. They don't fold down and I need to conserve all the space in my shop that I can.

Have fun with your new toy.
Brian

[Paul Atkins]

25 or 6 to 4. Let's be a little more descriptive with the titles. This is not just directed at you, Jeff. I just have to look up all these model numbers not knowing if it is a sander, lathe, drill bit or tractor. Just drives me a bit nuts. I know everybody knows what a DB4, a .357, and a 1909SVDB is, but there are too many new numbers out there. Whew, too much coffee.

[Chuck Isaacson]

Bigger = Better.... Usually...

[Van Huskey]

If you have the room and the money the 22" version makes sense. Depending on what you do that extra 4 inches may mean a significant number of pieces will be done in one pass not 2.

[Joe Von Kaenel]

Jeff,

I have the 16-32 great sander and time saver. If you can afford the extra, get the bigger 22-44. I've sanded many wide panels and the trick is to elevate the open end of the drum just a little and it does a nice job. I learned that trick from SMC. Hope this helps.


Joe

[Jeff Monson]

Thanks a million for the quick responses, its really nice to hear from actual owners of the tools what works and what does not. I'm heading over after work to buy the 22-44 and a set of outfeed tables, I'll buy the casters at my local hardware store.