Sander-polishers
Compare sander-polisher vs orbital polishers
Rotary sander-polisher
- Multi-purpose machine
- Great for repairs and preparation
- Speed range from 600 rpm essential for polishing fibreglass
Orbital polisher
- Best for polishing and buffing
- Covers large areas very fast
- Won't overheat gel coat or leave 'comet tails'
See our detailed comparison here
Rotary sander-polishers with an angle head are the tool of choice for fibreglass repair and maintenance. They're efficient machines that deliver good productivity.
- Great for rapid shaping, sanding and final polishing
- Quick change between sanding and polishing
- Well-balanced for extended use
- Alternative size heads available
We've selected two machines that we consider to be ideal for work on boats. They both have large 180mm heads and variable speeds with a range down to 600 rpm, essential for good work on fibreglass. See our top tips on machine polishing here.
Variable speed sander-polisher
Heavy duty six-speed rotary polisher with 180mm diameter head. A great value sander-polisher with full specification and a three-year warranty.
This professional grade machine has been extensively tested. It is highly recommended where productivity is important as it's comfortable to use for long periods with good control from the wrap-around handle.
The Velcro backing pad accepts 180mm sanding discs, 200mm compounding and polishing foams, or tie-on polishing bonnets. Spindle lock makes changing heads easy.
Six speed settings from 600 to 3200rpm make it suitable for all surfaces, including fibreglass, wood and steel. It's an ideal yard machine and terrific value.
Technical details
- Operating voltage: 230V 50Hz
- Power rating: 1200W
- Double insulated, CE marked
- Six speed 600 - 3000rpm through thumb wheel selector
- Head: 180mm (7 inch) diameter on M14 x 2mm thread
- Weight: 2Kg
- Power cable: 3m
- Supplied with velcro backing pad and soft lambs wool polishing bonnet
- Right- or left-handed wrap-around handle
Makita Sander polisher
For the discerning user, this Makita tool has a superb specification and an excellent reputation.
Electronic control provides continuously variable speed through the trigger as well as a no-load speed dial and a button to lock the preset speed. For ultimate performance, this is the machine to choose.
Technical details
- Operating voltage: 230V 50Hz
- Power rating: 1200W
- Double insulated, CE marked
- Continuously variable speed 0 - 3000rpm
- Head: 180mm (7 inch) diameter on M14 x 2mm thread
- Weight: 3Kg
- Supplied with velcro backing pad and soft lambswool polishing bonnet