- The handheld belt sander is best used on long flat boards. Pull the sander back against the movement of the belt. In most cases the belt sander wants to move in a forward direction. Do not push down on the sander; allow the machine to do the work for you. Choose the correct size belt and grit. Properly fitting belts should always be used on the belt sander. Do not use smaller belt widths, as these belts can ruin the idler and rubber drive wheels. Heavy grit paper, 60 grit to 100 grit, is very aggressive. Use these sanding belts sparingly. The lighter grit sanding belts, 180 grit to 240 grit, may take a few minutes longer, but they are easier to control.
- The stationary belt and disc sander is ideal for smoothing and finishing small parts. The long sanding belt can be used for longer boards of a short width. The fixed support plate can be used to dress down an angle on sharp edges. The disc will make fast work for dressing small wooden parts when used with the angled support table. Use a pre-adhesive discs for a quick change out of various grits. Keep the belts and discs free of built up dust and resin. A high velocity air hose can be used to blow off some build up of dust. A hardwood scrap, such a white oak, can be used to remove softer wood resin from the belts and disc paper.
- Place the handheld belt sander, belt side up, in the jaws of a wood vise. Secure the sander by clamping on the "T" portion of the belt sanders handle. You can use a couple of wide wooden blocks in the vise's jaws to adjust the position of the belt sander. Use the "on" switches "hold" button and set the speed of the belt with the speed control switch. You can sand natural edged boards and longer boards. This type of setup allows you two hands on the board for better control of sanding down edges.
