Paddle Switch Grinder with Lock-On Switch Review 2012

I loved this grinder. It was smoother and quieter than the Porter Cable I had before. The tool was comfortable to hold, and the long paddle switch allowed for different hand positions as needed. The guard was easy to move, and lower profile than others like the Dewalt. Also, unlike the Dewalt, the guard is captured in a groove, and cannot rub on the grinding implement. The handle was comfortable to hold, though bigger than it needs to be (no worse than any others here). The cord is long enough, and more flexible than others.

But here's the catch- after a couple of years with good care, and not what I would consider a lot of hours, the rear bearing seized up. I am hoping to repair it for $15 worth of parts, but the time and inconvenience is the real cost. While waiting for the parts, I have bought the Dewalt because of the high rating, but it vibrates more, is relatively uncomfortable to hold (body too fat), and has a clunky switch in the wrong place. I may spring for a fancy variable speed Makita, which is the brand I have had the best luck with in terms of reliability, or perhaps the Metabo. I was a little taken aback by the size of the box this thing came in--turns out Bosch doesn't think grinders need to be put away and skimped on the case. This makes little sense to me given what tends to happen when a grinding wheel isn't stored properly, but maybe I'm crazy.

The grinder itself is solidly built and the gradual speed up keeps it from jumping out of your hand nicely. The safety on the switch is a great feature to prevent against accidents, but I find it a little tricky to hit with gloves on; same with the lock-on button and spindle lock. Guard adjustments are simple and tool-free at least, and there's plenty of power to go 'round.

It would have been nice if they had incorporated their anti-kickback circuit into this model, too. I don't need or want a bigger, heavier grinder, but I would like one that won't hit me in the face.

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