John Edwards
03-09-2005, 11:31 PM
Festool is considering introducing a belt sander to the North American market.
As I understand this is just a consideration at this point. But in any case, with the fine reputation that Festool has earned by offering top quality tools. How many of us would be interested in a high-end belt sander ?
Most all the WWing magazines have had a recent article(s) on belt sanders. So I think there are still a lot of folks who could be interested in a top quality machine.
The Festool would have a low center of gravity and be well balanced. Ergonomics are also a high priority. In addition Festool has been famous for their dust collection capability and this belt sander would be no exception.
A host of features available would include a sanding frame that would limit the depth of sand as well as provide a larger bearing surface for providing a flatter surface. The WWing magazines have been pointing this out for a long time. Bosch, DeWalt and Ryobi come to mind as having these frames available. Most people shy away from them as they can be expensive and make belt changing a hassle. But what if Festool overcame those issues ? In addition how about a stand to allow the sander to mount to your workbench so it could then be used in an inverted position. ?
What would we woodworkers want ? A basic machine that you could add accessories to? Or a full-featured model that came with all the bells and whistles ? 3-inch belt or 4 incher ?
Consider that Festool`s are not cheap tools. They are well designed, well engineered tools that simply work well. And will continue to work well for a long time. Unlike most all the competition that, in many cases can/could be considered “throwaway” tools.
That said, how much would you be willing to pay for a top quality belt sander ?
No I don’t work for Festool but I have been bugging them to import the belt sanders they sell in other countries. Which by the way get fantastic reviews. But when you consider that laws and regulations (UL listing etc) a manufactor has to go through before they can sell here in North America they approach each product carefully.
With this posting I am hoping they can get a better feel for what the market may be. Because, believe it or not Festool DOES watch and monitor the forums closely.
Thanks, look forward to your responses.
As I understand this is just a consideration at this point. But in any case, with the fine reputation that Festool has earned by offering top quality tools. How many of us would be interested in a high-end belt sander ?
Most all the WWing magazines have had a recent article(s) on belt sanders. So I think there are still a lot of folks who could be interested in a top quality machine.
The Festool would have a low center of gravity and be well balanced. Ergonomics are also a high priority. In addition Festool has been famous for their dust collection capability and this belt sander would be no exception.
A host of features available would include a sanding frame that would limit the depth of sand as well as provide a larger bearing surface for providing a flatter surface. The WWing magazines have been pointing this out for a long time. Bosch, DeWalt and Ryobi come to mind as having these frames available. Most people shy away from them as they can be expensive and make belt changing a hassle. But what if Festool overcame those issues ? In addition how about a stand to allow the sander to mount to your workbench so it could then be used in an inverted position. ?
What would we woodworkers want ? A basic machine that you could add accessories to? Or a full-featured model that came with all the bells and whistles ? 3-inch belt or 4 incher ?
Consider that Festool`s are not cheap tools. They are well designed, well engineered tools that simply work well. And will continue to work well for a long time. Unlike most all the competition that, in many cases can/could be considered “throwaway” tools.
That said, how much would you be willing to pay for a top quality belt sander ?
No I don’t work for Festool but I have been bugging them to import the belt sanders they sell in other countries. Which by the way get fantastic reviews. But when you consider that laws and regulations (UL listing etc) a manufactor has to go through before they can sell here in North America they approach each product carefully.
With this posting I am hoping they can get a better feel for what the market may be. Because, believe it or not Festool DOES watch and monitor the forums closely.
Thanks, look forward to your responses.