Angle Grinders for Sanding Wood: A Hidden Trick or a Bad Idea?

If you've spent time watching woodworking videos, you may have noticed some creators using angle grinders with sanding discs to smooth their projects quickly. At first glance, it seems like a brilliant hack—fast, efficient, and surprisingly effective for certain tasks. But why don't more woodworkers talk about it? And is it really a good idea?

The Appeal of Angle Grinders for Sanding

Angle grinders are powerful, fast, and versatile. When fitted with sanding discs or flap wheels, they can remove material much quicker than traditional sanders. Some woodworkers use them for:

• Rough shaping (e.g., rounding edges, carving)
• Aggressive stock removal when refinishing old furniture
• Scribing work (like fitting cabinets)

For these tasks, an angle grinder can save time, especially when you need to strip away material without fuss.

The Downsides: Why Most Woodworkers Avoid It

Despite its speed, an angle grinder is not ideal for fine woodworking. Here's why:

• Too Aggressive – The high RPM can easily gouge wood, leaving deep scratches that are hard to fix.
• Lack of Control – Unlike orbital sanders, grinders don't have random motion, meaning they leave visible swirl marks.
• Dust & Safety Issues – They generate massive dust clouds, requiring strong dust extraction and protective gear.
• Not for Flat Surfaces – Unless you're extremely skilled, keeping a smooth, even surface is difficult.

The Right Tool for the Job

If you do decide to use an angle grinder for sanding, make sure you have a high-quality, reliable model with:

• Strong motor control (to reduce accidental gouging)
• Sturdy construction (for better handling)
• Long battery life (if cordless)

Have you tried sanding with an angle grinder? Share your experiences in the comments!