Do I need an angle grinder

Yes buy an angle grinder. However look for a kit with a rubber backing disc for sand paper (emery paper ) for sanding. I find this even more useful than the grinder with grinding disc. One with a switch mid way up the barrel is more convenient than end plate switch on cheaper ones.
Better still buy 2 angle grinders one for sanding disc one for cutting disc. So cheap so useful. olewill
 
I don't know how I did without one for so long.

One thing that I would prioritize is ease of adjusting the guard. I have a horrible Wickes one that uses three screws to hold it, and the screws are made of plasticine. My lovely newish Makita has one screw, but I believe that some have a button release which would be even better.
 
fisherman said:
Rubber backed discs are indispensisible for GRP work.
Click to expand...

Yes, it's with the rubber sanding pad (and disks from 36 to 120 grit) that the 115mm angle grinder really comes into its own for boat work.

Have a metal cutting and grinding disks with you by all means, but with the sanding disk it's an absolutely great boat tool.
Especially in the hands of someone with subtlety and finesse.
 
I have an angle grinder and use it quite regularly. However, I've always fancied adding a cordless one to my tool collection just in case my car was ever to get wheel clamped. Is there a cordless available at not too much money?
 
Flap discs with various grit grades are excellent for cleaning up rust, finishing edges and polishing metal . http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Flap-Disc...byFeedingUtensils_EH&var=&hash=item589b0e4af7

0607kc_08_z+chassis_preperation+grinder_wheel.jpg
 
Lakesailor said:
Of course you need an angle grinder.
I have had one for years (not always the same one)
They make hacksaws redundant, files become esoteric.
Use 1mm cutting discs for actually slicing up metal.
Grinding discs are great for finishing and shaping.
Twisted wire brushes are great for cleaning and polishing metal.
Use PPE
Clamp your workpiece firmly. Don't, ever, be tempted to get a 9" grinder.

You'll be safe.

I use mine on an almost daily basis.

(NB: Nylon overalls are rubbish when using grinders, as are fleeces)


Grinderman.jpg
Click to expand...

Thank you for posting this H&S pic:encouragement:
 
Lakesailor said:
Of course you need an angle grinder.
I have had one for years (not always the same one)
They make hacksaws redundant, files become esoteric.
Use 1mm cutting discs for actually slicing up metal.
Grinding discs are great for finishing and shaping.
Twisted wire brushes are great for cleaning and polishing metal.
Use PPE
Clamp your workpiece firmly. Don't, ever, be tempted to get a 9" grinder.

You'll be safe.

I use mine on an almost daily basis.

(NB: Nylon overalls are rubbish when using grinders, as are fleeces)
Click to expand...
I have three, I bought the second one when the first one needed new brushes half way through a big job.
The third one is a 9inch.
The big one needs a lot of respect. It kicks hard when you start it. It generates a serious force as it gets hold of the work.
I only use it on heavy things that are secured.
I would not use it up a ladder or anywhere awkward.

I also have a dremel and two bench grinders....
 
Buy one when you have a job that needs it, and buy one suited to that job. If I bought every tool I fancy I'd not be able to move for them. I have about 20 power tools including an angle grinder - and 5 drills two routers.. tablesaw bandsaw jigsaw .... and so on... buy them when you need them and buy exactly what you need.
 
You'll find that when you get a job that needs an angle grinder...

...nothing else will do!


Seriously, buy a cheap 115mm one and see if you find it useful. They're not expensive. If you're cutting metal, use the ultra-thin discs (1mm or thereabouts).
 
115mm angle grinder is indispensible. I have a Makita, bought on special offer from Screwfix. Works well until it suddenly stopped halfway through a job for a friend so bought a cheapy for £15 from a local diy shop which managed to finish the job and then burnt out. The Makita started working again and has been fine ever since. Used flap wheels, grinding discs, thin ss cutting discs, diamond disc for bricks and wire brushes. BUT DON'T CUT expanded mesh unless it's firmly fixed down & you use both hands to hold it - I have the scar on my wrist to testify. Fortunately not too deep. Go for a brand name unless it's for a one off job.
 
I didn't know I needed one until I got one. Very adaptable and useful tool.
Also known in this area as a Canvey plane when used for delicate finishing work.:)
Buy 6 pairs of safety goggles as well, they keep disappearing. [or have Moorfields on speed dial!]
 
I agree with the others, do get one.

My first was a cheapo 12 quid effort and it burnt out in about 12 months. I then got a Black and Decker for about £30 and it has been great. I like B&D tools, firmly in the DIY market but they have a name worth keeping respectable and you stand some chance of buying spare bits.

Superb for cutting up paving slabs and wall tiles.
 
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Nothing removes material faster ( a chainsaw perhaps). And for rough shaping or even fine finishing, wood butchery, plastics, metal..grizzly discs are great. Dont buy iffy quality hard discs tho cos they can burst
 
I have a Makita 18V cordless angle grinder on board. I make sure the battery is removed whenever I stow it. (Just in case it should accidently be triggered against the hull.)
Extremely usefull tool to have.
 
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