Makita 9404 Belt Sander Review Powerful Performance and Quiet Operation for Woodworking

Description

My Experience with the Makita 9404 4″ x 24″ Belt Sander

The Makita 9404 4″ x 24″ Belt Sander has been an interesting addition to my toolbox. With its 8.8 AMP motor and variable speed control, it promises a lot, and I made it my mission to see if it truly delivers. I’ve used this beast for a variety of tasks, from sanding down old furniture to prepping wooden panels for painting. It has its quirks, but overall, it’s been a reliable workhorse.

Design and Build Quality: Sturdy and Thoughtful

What struck me immediately was how solid this thing feels. At 10.3 pounds, the sander has some heft, which I found helpful for keeping it steady during operation. The low-profile design not only improves balance but also allows for flush sanding to walls, which is a feature I didn’t know I needed until I tried it. The 16.4-foot power cord is a godsend, offering plenty of room to maneuver without constantly searching for an extension cable.

The dust bag it comes with is decent, though it could be better at keeping fine particles contained. While the blue color may not influence its functionality, it does give the tool a sleek and professional look.

Key Benefits

• Variable Speed Control: The ability to adjust the belt speed from 690 to 1,440 ft./min. means I could tailor it to different materials. For instance, I used a lower speed for delicate veneers and cranked it up for tough hardwoods.
• Low Noise Level: At 84 dB, it’s quieter than most sanders I’ve used. My ears definitely appreciate this after hours of work.
• Auto-Tracking Belt System: This tracks the sanding belt without needing manual adjustments, which saved me a lot of time and frustration.
• Flush Sanding Ability: The design allows for sanding right up to edges and corners, making it perfect for furniture restoration projects.

Performance: Power Meets Precision

The Makita 9404 is powerful enough for heavy-duty tasks while maintaining control for more delicate jobs. The optional sanding shoe (which I didn’t purchase but researched) supposedly offers even more precise depth control. I appreciated the way the electronic speed control kept the pace consistent, even under heavy loads. On a personal note, the sander handled removing paint and even some light rust with ease when I used it on an old metal cabinet.

However, I did notice the 10.3-pound weight can feel tiring during extended use, especially when working on vertical surfaces. That said, the front grip provides a comfortable hold and helps to mitigate fatigue.

Areas of Concern

• Dust Collection: While the included dust bag works, it doesn’t catch everything. Fine dust tends to escape, which makes cleanup a bit of a chore.
• Hefty Weight: Although the weight adds stability, it can become cumbersome if you’re not used to handling heavier tools.
• Limited Accessories: It would have been nice if the optional sanding shoe was included in the package instead of being an extra purchase.

Features that Stand Out

This sander has a range of features that make it suitable for both professionals and hobbyists. The double insulation ensures safety, while the ability to sand wood, metal, paint, and rust makes it versatile. I also liked how the abrasive belt and dust bag come included, so you can get started right out of the box. The ball-bearing construction adds durability, which is something I always look for in tools like this.

Alternative Offerings

I’ve tried similar products like the DeWalt DWE6423K Random Orbital Sander and the Bosch 1274DVS Belt Sander. While both are excellent tools, they don’t quite match the Makita in terms of belt speed range and low noise operation. However, the Bosch does come with a better dust collection system, which is worth noting if cleanliness is a priority for you.

The DeWalt, on the other hand, is lighter and more compact, making it easier to handle for smaller jobs. If portability and ease of use are higher on your list, those might be better options, but for raw power and versatility, the Makita stands out.

Cost-Effectiveness

The price point for this belt sander is reasonable when considering its powerful motor, variable speed settings, and flush sanding capability. While it’s not the cheapest option on the market, its features justify the investment. If you’re after a tool that can handle heavy-duty tasks while offering precision for finer work, it’s worth every penny.

That said, you might want to consider whether you’ll make use of all its features. For occasional DIY projects, a simpler (and cheaper) model might suffice. But for professionals or serious hobbyists, this tool strikes a nice balance between quality and cost-efficiency.

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