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Metabo HPT 18V 5-Inch Random Orbital Sander, model SV1813DAQ4

Metabo HPT 18V Random Orbital Sander

4/5

Manufacturer: Metabo HPT
Model number: SV1813DAQ4
Price: 99.00
Power source: 18v
Weight: 2.6 lbs

The 18V Random Orbital Sander is part of the expanding MultiVolt System of 18V and 36V power tools from Metabo HPT.

Metabo HPT 18V Random Orbital Sander | Specifications and Features

• Model: Metabo HPT SV1813DAQ4
• Length: 6.25 in
• Width: 6.25 in
• Height: 6 in
• Weight: 2.6 lbs.
• Voltage: 18V
• Variable Speed 6 settings [ 7,000 to 11,000/min No Load Speed]
• DC Brushless motor Yes
• Electric brake Yes
• 5” Pad [Hook and loop Yes
• Dust Port 1-3/8”
• Vacuum adapters [2] 1-1/2″ & 1-3/4″
• Dust Bag Yes
• Sealed switch Yes
• Warranty 5-Year Tool Warranty

First Impression

My first impression was how comfortable the sander was to grip. I immediately noticed that the power switch was nicely sealed with a rubber cover, and the 6-setting variable speed dial was recessed so as NOT to accidentally change it when gripping the tool.
The other immediate impression was why did Metabo HPT opt to use the archaic dust bag. If you’re not sure what I mean, it’s that plastic clip that holds the back of the dust bag together and was on sanders 20 years ago.

Power | Material Removal

The Metabo HPT 18V Random Orbital Sander has a 5-inch hook and loop pad that is easily changed with 4 screws.

I will say I only have a couple of hours on this sander so far. I found the sander is powerful and I was able to remove mill marks easily and quickly from a face frame I had clued up. To see how the sander performed I additionally tested the sander with pencil marks on various wood species, including some painted trim and rusted metal. The variable speed dial worked well at reducing sanding power when switching between paintwork, bare wood, and metal. Its 6 settings are rated for no-load speeds from 7,000 OPM to 11,000 OPM with an orbit diameter of 3 mm.

Vibration

The Metabo HPT sander did seem to have more vibration than the Milwaukee sander I’m used to, but there is no way for me to measure that.

Dust Collection

The Metabo HPT 18V Random Orbital Sander comes with a dust bag and two vacuum adapters. The dust bag has a rubber O-ring that inserts into the sanders port securely and snugly – no chance of falling out. The dust port on the sander will handle a 1-3/8” [35 mm] dust hose and the adapters allow 1-1/2” [38mm] or 1-3/4 [44mm] hose connections.

Improvements

This sander is great, but I feel like Metabo HPT missed the mark by using the archaic dust bag clip. Experience has shown me that these clips are a pain in the ass to slip on, leak if not on securely, and easily get lost. Metabo HPT should put a YKK zipper on that bag.

As far as the vacuum adapters, I’m glad they include them, but I’d prefer a cordless tool in 2022 to have an integrated multi-sized dust port. Who knows maybe we’ll see these improvements on the Gen 2 tool!

Price

The Metabo HPT Sander sells for $99.00 as a bare tool at ACME Tools. That’s a bargain in anyone’s wallet.

Included with the Orbital Sander

• (2) Sanding Pads
• Dust Bag
• 1-1/2″ & 1-3/4″ Vacuum Adaptor

Overall Impression

I really liked the Metabo HOT sander, it’s powerful, comfortable to use, has great runtime, and only weighs 2.6 lbs. plus whatever battery you clip on it. I’m excited to see Metabo HPT stepping up their game and adding more tools to their brushless lineup and expanding their MultiVolt System of 18V and 36V power tools.

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