Amazon.com Review

Well-executed design combined with solid, reliable performance make this Bosch belt sander a tool with noticeable performance advantages. The Bosch features a magnesium-and-plastic housing that's lightweight yet durable. The tool is nicely balanced, comfortable, and easy to operate--important features in a tool that's often used for long periods of time for removing large amounts of stock. The Bosch comes with a cast-aluminum platen--so there's none of the warping that affects stamped-steel platens--and it sands perfectly flat right out of the box. Like many of the sanders in this class, the motor on the 1274 is aligned with the belt edge to allow flush sanding into corners. The tool's only drawback is that visibility is limited when sanding into tight corners, but that's a small minus when weighed against all the pluses. The belt-changing system works well--we didn't suffer any spring pinches--and the tracking adjustment tracks the new belt quickly and keeps it in place. There's a variable-speed dial built right into the trigger switch, which makes adjusting the belt speed fast and convenient. Wood magazine tested 10 3-by-21-inch sanders and liked the 1274DVS best. We agree that it's a great tool. --Mark McDonald ... Read more

Features

• Compact in-line design - For better balance
• 6.6 Amps, 550-1,100 SFPM power - For professional applications
• Variable speed - For fine finishing of fast stock removal
• Graphite platen pad - For cool running and uniform sanding
• Removable front handle - For close work

Reviews (22)

Just a little off the top
I'll be honest, this is my first belt sander, but I love it. I took the recommendation of some of the other reviewers, and I couldn't agree more. The sander is easy to use out of the box, and is a smooth-running, well-designed tool. The variable speed switch is very nice, and adds considerably to the user's control. I haven't yet done any heavy duty sanding, but for finish work the dust collection seems to work well. Five stars for Bosch on this one.

Solid Inline Belt Sander
I owned a small inline belt sander and found the shape gave me the opportunity to use the machine in many more ways, especially on its side sanding the edges of large pieces of solid wood. When I had to replace the small sander, I knew I wanted a larger version, and the Bosch fit the bill. Amazon sold it at a lower price than I could find locally, and then there was the tax I saved and free delivery!

A week later it was on the door step and it came out of the box and went right to work on some local hardwoods. There is lots of power to turn the 3 inch belt. While I have checked the belt for running off ceter- it almost never runs off. And the graphite patten is flat and stays cool. It has only a few hours on it but I am very happy with it. I have not used the fence, but I will, and I wish I had ordered the clamps to tie it down to a table upside down.

The only problem I have with the sander is the dust control. I have been using the dust bag and it is small, and dust puffs out of a small indentation near the dust nipple when lifting off or moving down on the wood. I have not tried to trouble-check the problem.

A happy Bosch customer and a happy Ammazon.com customer.

Awesome!! Nothings Better
This is an extremely well-designed and well-built sander. No complaints here only praise, praise, praise!

Thank you Bosch--you sure make my life a lot better!!

Effective machine
Works on the deck great with 36 Grit paper. However, the dustless feature seems to have been ommitted in the one I received. Borrowed a Porter Cable with a more effective collection system and in retrospect thought the more expensive Bosch would have been a better investment. Otherwise easy machine, good value.

Maybe I got a lemon?
I have recently purchased numerous Bosch tools from Amazon/Tool Crib and I have been a life-long Bosch fan. However, I have to say that this is the very first time I have been let down by one of their products. I guess I just got a rare "lemon".
Immediately on using it, I had problems with the "Lock-On Button". Either it would not keep the machine running, or when it did engage I could then not stop it! It works sporadically, but usually not until I have tried to disengage or engage it several times. Then, after just 15 minutes use sanding some deck timbers, a loud clatter developed. Sounds like a bearing problem? This did not seem to unduly affect performance, and since I purchased the unit for this specific job, I carried on for a while. Then, the rear belt wheel started to slip or disengage, like a slipping clutch. The work I was doing was not unduly difficult and for a period of time, the work was going like a dream, much as I am used to with Bosch tools.
So finally, I just gave up-extremely disappointed that I could not finish the job at hand.
I have returned it and I will get the 1276DVS instead. ... Read more

Amazon.com Review

The Bosch 1276DVS offers solid, reliable performance plus a few nifty extras, making it an easy-to-use sander that's serious about removing material. Bosch designers listened to customer feedback and developed a front handle that adjusts. Deep detents mean the handle snaps securely into place, giving it a burly feel and stability in any of the six positions. That, combined with nice balance and weight, minimizes user fatigue. Like many of the sanders in this class, the motor is aligned with the belt edge to make flush sanding possible; however, as with other Bosch belt sanders, visibility is somewhat limited once the sander gets into corners.

The belt-changing system works well--we didn't suffer any spring pinches--and the belt tracking adjustment tracks the new belt quickly and keeps it in place. The 1276 gets its "dustless" name from the adjustable shoot that accommodates nonwoven belts up to 8 mm thick. Belt sanders are all about removing stock in a hurry, and the larger the area of sandpaper in contact with material, the faster material is removed. To achieve a perfect finish, it's important that the sander sand flat. The platen on the 1276 is the cork-and-steel type, not as efficient as cast aluminum, but a good, solid performance setup. Plus, the 1276 offers an optional graphite platen--a great high-performance extra. There are a few other accessories available and we liked the sanding stand, which holds the tool in an inverted position for fine finish applications, and the machined-aluminum sanding frame that keeps the sander up off material, reducing pressure on the belt and making smooth finishes easier. By offering these accessories, Bosch makes this already fine tool versatile to boot. --Mark McDonald ... Read more

Features

• Exclusive adjustable belt tensioning allows use of non-woven belts up to 8mm thick
• 10.5 Amps, 1,150-1,550 SFPM power for professional applications
• Rugged design specifically built for production sanding jobs
• Magnesium transmission housing reduces overall tool weight
• Adjustable front handle folds away for close work

Reviews (14)

best in it's class
My Bosch 4" DVS belt sander is smooth, powerful and has a low center of gravity for easy handling. It is adjustable for grip and speed and does a good job on anything I've used it for. It's a little heavy for overhead or in-place work but my 3x21 Bosch fills in that gap. This is THE belt sander for the professional woodworker.

Another GREAT product from Bosch!
This is my favorite tool! I have abused this sander for the past 3 years and it keeps on humm'in. It is so smooth, powerful, lightweight, and easy to handle.

If your a professional woodworker like me or woodworking is your hobby this is the ONLY belt sander to have. It's the quietest belt sander I've ever used.

I always recomend Bosch tools when some one wants to purchase a very powerful and high quality professional power tool. Bosch tools have never let me down. Keep up the good work Bosch!!

A Monster in Your Hands
If you are planning to own one, be sure to check your physical strength. You'll need strong arms and a good rest to handle this baby, in fact, it's a monster. It weighs a ton, and has power that can hurt your arms for the rest of the day. What I like about this machine is it's power with variable speeds, the ease of the belt change and adjusting. Also the adjustable left-front handle makes it more comfortable. The weight of the machine keeps stabilizing the operation, but the down side is you can't really use it for over your head job. If I need to do that, I would grab a lighter one. One real draw back of the design is the dust bag location. It is placed on the wrong side! and it might get in your way if you are doing a critical sanding. My conclusion, It'a a nice, powerful horse at a reasonable price. It would be even nicer if the carrying case is provided. Thank You Bosch.

The Best!
Cant say enough good things about this sander--I LOVE it.

Bosch tools have never let me down. Keep up the good work Bosch!!

Worked great for a bit!
I bought this unit to replace a Black and Decker Sand Cat that had destroyed the front belt roller bearing. The unit has tremendous power. The bad part is that it will not sand flush to a wall. Then after using it about 4 times, it just plain quit. I'm lucky enough to have the service center within 5 miles of my house and the power switch was replaced under warranty. Otherwise the sander will take on anything and the belt rollers have decent bearings. ... Read more

Amazon.com

An exceptionally smooth start gives you a great first impression, and the more you use this sander, the more impressed you’ll be with its eager 3.3 amp motor and Bosch’s Constant Response circuitry, which maintains constant speed under load. It uses hook-and-loop discs, far more durable than the adhesive kind, and the pad-dampening system helps prevent swirl marks. There’s very little vibration in hand, giving you beautiful control. Adding to that is the ergonomic soft-grip front handle, which is easily detachable for maneuvering into tight spaces. The two-finger trigger is comfortable and smooth, and the lock button engages quickly and easily without contorting your hand. Variable speed adjusts at the turn of the thumb wheel, and the motor handles even abrupt changes like a dream. Bosch’s new Microfilter is a great improvement over the previous cloth dust bags, too.--Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• Removal of auxillary handle for close-quarter work
• Powerful 3.3 amp motor handles the toughest applications
• 4,500-12,000 orbits per minute
• Micro filter collects up to 120% more dust than conventional dust bags
• Hook and loop pad for quick sandpaper changes

Reviews (4)

Bad Boy of orbitals
I've had this sander a couple of months now. It's excellent for larger jobs, as you can get both hands on the tool, crank up the power and really get some a$$ behind it when needed, yet still sand more delicate items by slowing the speed down. It's size is both good and bad. On the downside, if you are sanding items which require you to hold the item with one hand and the sander with the other it is somewhat difficult with this sander as it is primarily a two handed tool. Also this sander is larger than palm sanders and cannot get in some smaller areas. I've used it sometimes for several hours at a time and have found it to be comfortable to use. It is adequately powered. The dust collection is better than the other sanders i have, and the big bag fills quickly. My only complaint is that right in the center of the sanding pad is about a 1 inch hole with a small bolt to hold the pad onto the sander. This hole, being so large, makes it impossible to round corners with this sander. Bosch could have improved this easily. (the reason for four instead of five stars) This is a great investment if you do a lot of sanding and need a step above a palm sander, but keep your palm sander handy for rounding corners!

Great Value
Great value for the $$$--Can't go wrong with a great company like Bosch!

How do I hookup a vacuum?
It's not too noisey and it's a little bit smoother than the other brands I've tried. It looks to be well made and is fairly ergonomic. But if I can't find a vacuum attachment adaptor for it then I'll have to buy a different brand sander that does have one.

Quality, features, ergonomics and smoooooth
Excellent sander. There are a numer that are cheaper, but few that I like as much as this one.I have 5 different brands of various size and style orbitals. This is the one I generally reach for most of the time. The dust collection has minimal value, but to be honest, almost every stand alone dust bag on anything pales compared to connecting it to a vac. ... Read more

Features

• Integral pad dampening
• 3.3 amps
• 4,500-12,000 rpm
• Variable speed
• Hook & loop

Reviews (2)

Great Sander!
I've had the opportunity to use a number of 5" and 6" RO sanders over the past few years and this is one I would definately buy again. Smooth, well balanced and fits my hands well. I bought mine with the vac adapter and Bosch's hose. I use it hooked to my Shop-Vac and it works very well. I can't see any dust on my bench around where I am sanding and I don't smell any either. 6" paper is now available at the box stores if you want to go that route (I prefer the Mirka available here). I like the 6" simply because it takes less time to sand an area.

A workhorse, solid piece of equipment
This is a solid sander that can cut with any grit you use. I bought this about 2 yrs ago to replace a 5" Bosch random orbital, the extra area saves me quite a bit of time. I have a 50' wooden yacht so this thing gets used and abused and has covered every square inch of the exterior atleast 3 times. I've also used it with finer grits (220) on inside interior and you can slow it down to what you need with the adjustment dial. The bottom hook and loop (velcro) fastener pad is strong and hasn't worn out like my last one. If you have big projects go with this sander, if you have small projects get the 5" bosch since it's theoretically easier to handle...just stick with Bosch, I've owned almost all of the others and they've been sent to davey jones locker.

The only downside I could think of is:

- most of the big home improvement stores don't carry 6" diameter paper (only 5") so you have to order online.

- I wish it came standard with an adapter to fit most shop vacs. I ended up engineering my own which leaves much to be desired. ... Read more

Amazon.com

What sets this sander apart from the ever-growing pack of random orbitals is Bosch’s new Microfilter dust filtration system, which the maker says will trap particles 60 times smaller than a human hair. Eight dust ports on the pad surface extract the material up into the filter, keeping it out of your lungs. The sander itself, a palm model, is relatively lightweight and comfortable in hand, thanks to the ergonomic soft grip, yet the 2.2 amp motor will power rotations from 7,000 to 12,000 RPM with a turn of the speed adjustment dial. The variable speeds offer you a range of applications, from serious stock removal all the way up to fine finishing. Bosch says it’s swirl free, but you’ll still want to use caution when starting up to avoid those swirl marks. It’s inexpensive enough for the home do-it-yourselfer or hobby woodworker to own one, yet we can easily see this in a professional shop with Bosch’s long life and superior quality.--Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• Through-the-pad dust extraction for cleaner workplace
• New microfilter dust collector with integrated paper filter
• Random orbit sanding for aggressive stock removal and swirl-free finishing
• Ergonomic soft grip for comfortable control
• Integral pad dampening - prevents swirl marks

Reviews (2)

Lots O' Tools
I like thise palm sander, however, the electrical cord has disintegrated over time (about 4 years). My Bosch router which has shared the tool cabinet with the palm sander has had no such problems. The cord on the router is still pliable and like new while the palm sander's cord has hardened and cracked apart every inch or so.

Exceeds your expectations for dust free sanding and controls
I purchased this to replace my old 1295D unit. I thought it would be similar but I was wrong. Bosch apparently redesigned the whole insides. It vacuums more dust into the new pleated filter dust collector. The variable speed give you speeds lower and higher than the single speed. High speed allows you to really remove material in a hurry, and the low speeds with very fine paper allows you to buff finishes between coats. Don't scrimp on your palm sander. Pay the little extra the variable speed is worth ever... I am continually pleased with the value and quality I get with the Bosch products. ... Read more

Features

• Ergonomic soft-grip top designed for comfort
• 2.6 Amps, 13,000-19,000 OPM - Ensures fast, smooth results on all surfaces
• True finishing sander motion with no arcing or pivoting, provides uniform sanding
• Tool-free pad changes makes pad changes quick and hassle-free
• Low vibration design engineered for smooth running and operator comfort

Reviews (7)

Disappointed
After a few days of intermittent use, with an "electrical burning" smell the entire time, my unit stopped running. When I returned it to my dealer, he had replaced another unit with the same problem, using his last Bosch in stock. After reading that others are also having similar problems, I switched to Fein.

great time saver
I have the earlier model of this sander and have saved tons of time with it. Sanding action is excellent, but it tends to run a little hot with prolonged use. Maybe the newer model has been improved in this regard. In addition, it's hard to find sandpaper that fits.

Replacement pads
If you can't find them here, you can order replacement pads from International Tool Corp. at internationaltool.com.. They carry all grits and sizes.

Designed well but problems with electrical
I love the Bosch line of tools, I need a very dependable detail sander and I am still hoping that Bosch will be the sander, I have bought three detail sanders from Bosch, two of which have failed after just a few hours of which each I smell electrical odor before they fail, I will take this last one back and get another one shipped, but there is deffinately a flaw with the electrical, probably the brushes, I was hoping others may have had the same problem??? Again I love the design but there is an electrical problem where they simply stop and just after a few hours of use, I believe in Bosch and will try again, Home Depot here we come!
Respectfully Dwight

Bosch 1294VSK
I bought this sander at a woodworking show in Richmond,Va.so I had no dealer to go back to.After using up the few sanding pads from the show I could not find any at Lowes or Hd so I started using the Feine stick on pads from my other sander or making my own sticking them on w/contact cement. now that the sanding plate has been gummed up w/cement, I need a new plate. I have a email request in to Bosch about this. Lets see how soon if ever they reply.With so many other similar sanders at HD or Lowes I would not recommend buying the bosch 1294sk. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Bosch took a great palm sander and made it better with a clever innovation that gets your sandpaper on the deck fast and securely. They call it the SheetLoc Sandpaper Attachment System. It's a simple configuration that makes loading sandpaper quicker and easier. Just open the front and rear clamps, insert the edge of the paper in the front and wrap it around to the back as usual. But when you close the rear clamp, it pulls the sandpaper taut and flat against the sanding bed. It's about time somebody figured this one out. The integrated dust collection system is nice, though of course you'll get more extraction when you hook the sander up to your standard dust collector or a wet/dry. On its own, it pulls in a good amount of sanding dust, and it's as snap to empty the canister. It uses regular sandpaper sheets, but you'll have to pop on the neat hole-puncher that's including you're your paper is seated; that lets the dust collector do its work. We like the feel of it and how hungry it is when it's wearing 60-grit. By the time you get up to 220, you'll have a gorgeous, smooth finish. --Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• Dust sealed switch for longer life
• 2 amps for a wide variety of sanding applications
• 12,000 OPM for fast removal of fine stock
• SheetLoc Sandpaper Attachment System for fast, secure sandpaper installation
• All ball bearing construction for durability

Features

• Service MinderTM brushes - eliminates guesswork, stops the tool when preventive maintenance is required
• 15 Amps, 5,000 RPM (1757)
• Lock-on/off switch - for extended use applications
• AC/DC capability - extends the versatility of the tool by working from DC outlets such as welders and generators
• Reinforced armature windings - protects the motor against abrasive dust and metal debris

Features

• Control knob for precise belt adjustment
• 3.3 Amps, 590-950 SFPM - the power of a belt sander with the flexibility of a detail sander
• Variable speed control for fine finishing or fast stock removal
• Quick-change lever allows fast belt changes
• Low vibration design for comfortable working

Reviews (6)

Compact Belt Sander
I have used regular belt sanders for years, heavy and awkward. This sander is great because its light weight and fast to work with. Its perfect for the fast or small job.

Good for light duty applications only
I am a small business owner and bought this sander to grind off the flashing on our polymer concrete castings (a material that is similar to cultured marble countertops.)

The good: It is light weight, easy to use and very easy to change the belts. It has a variable speed dial and a dial to align the belt should it wander off track.

The bad: It is too slow on the rpm's, even when you set it at its highest speed. It is also a little bit noiser than I thought it would be. It is about as noisy as a pneumatic. The belts are of poor quality. I burned through all of the belts that came with it in one day. They are also very expensive.

I can see this being an excellent tool for sanding wood or other soft materials but that is about it. Now that I am stuck with a non-standard belt size, I hope they offer belts for materials other than wood. I also hope that some other manufacturer will produce these belts to bring the cost down to where it should be for expendable items.

After First Use of the Compact Sander
After the first use of the compact Bosch Sander I rate it as excellent for my purposes. I bought it specifically to use in spot sanding dovetails when they stick out beyond the wood surface. For this use, its performance was excellent. It's very easy to handle because of its light weight and small size. I also used it to remove select areas of wood for better fit. I like it much better than my heavier Stanley belt sander which can sometimes gourge the wood (probably because of my carelessness).

Nice belt sander for small places
I needed a belt sander to strip old finish and spruce up a few thousand feet of redwood deck for a very good client. The bosch did nice work in places where I was forced to work by hand (otherwise). I found the sander very aggressive when I needed it to be and still responsive enough to do the finish sanding prior to re-staining the deck. The sander did exactly what I needed to do to reduce the labor intensive job I had. Like any speciality tool it took some time to get the feel of the work. However Bosh needs to work on belt quality (see review of 80 grit belts) By the way... I have read the reviews above, my advice (close to 30 years in construction) to anyone using power tools (especially tools that include exposed parts that revolve close to the hands) NEVER, I say never, wear gloves!

Wonderful tool for a day
I love Bosch power tools ! I've had one of these for 6 months now. I got to use it once before the front roller came out of its holder. Before that it was great. After that it was very frustrating. I took it to a service center. They had it for 4 months because the parts were on back order. When it finally came back ,one of the sales men asked me what was wrong. I showed him the front roller and he barely touched it and it fell apart again ! So I still don't have it. I guess this is so common that there aren't enough parts to go around. This is very strange for a a tool that says Bosch on it. Don't waste your valuable time or money on this tool. ... Read more

Features

• Reinforced armature windings - protects motor against abrasive dust and metal debris
• 15 Amps, 6,000 RPM
• Exclusive rotating handle design - rotates in either direction for hard to reach locations
• Lock-on/off switch - for extended use applications
• AC/DC capability - extends the versatility of the tool by working from DC outlets such as welders and generators

Features

• Exclusive adjustable belt tensioning allows use of non-woven belts up to 8mm thick
• 10.5 Amps, 1,550 SFPM power for professional applications
• Rugged design specifically built for production sanding jobs
• Magnesium transmission housing reduces overall tool weight
• Adjustable front handle folds away for close work

Features

• Multi-position handle design for comfortable operation, folds flush for standing in tight spots
• Powerful 3.3-Amp motor, 4,500-13,000 OPM ensures fast results on all surfaces
• Variable speed dial, match speed to workpiece and task
• Random orbit sanding action for aggressive stock removal and swirl free finishing
• Trigger with lock-on button for extended periods of use

Reviews (7)

Nice sander, some problems
I bought this sander for refurbishing boats. It works great for stripping off paint and exposing fiberglass, and also for sanding off fairing material. It outperformed all my other sanders, by a huge factor. I was able to sand over 400 sq feet of hull in three days. With other sanders I'd need a crew of men and multiple sanders, and it still would take longer.

I use 60 grit "hook and loop" pad and I duct taped a vacuum cleaner to it. A powerful external vacuum cleaner will make dust negligable. On windy days I can sand without a facemask and only need eye protection.

The variable speed works ok, although I had trouble with it later which may be related to some internal probelms after I serviced it.

It is the best all around sander I've used and out performed palm sanders by a factor or 10:1. I can do ten times the work, with a better final finish.

However, I got less than a year of service out of it. The backing pad started to shake off. When I reattached it, it did not perform as well as previously. I'm unsure if the allen head scre4w should be tight or allowed to float slightly. If left slightly loose it tends to shake itself looser.

Also, I found that at times the power seemed to drop, perhaps due to bad contacts on my extension cords, perhaps low service voltage, or possibly something internal.

The internal dust seal was damaged, the first time the pad started to shake itself off, which increased the amount of dust that could not be collected. After the first time the pad started to shake off, I was unable to make it perform like new.

I tried changing extension cords. Now the power was gone from this unit. Although it sometimes picks up and performs like it did out of the box.

I gave this unit a lot of use, and wish I had another one, but I can't give it top marks because the problems I've encountered. I still rated it a 5 because even if it craps out, it is still worth the money. I wish the manual provided service information to maintain it.

I'm now planning on buy a competing 6" sander of similar design.

I'll Never Go Back to a Belt
If I'd had this tool when I finished my first oak floor I could have saved about $150 in rental fees and a number of scars on the floor itself. The sander I rented, a drum sander nearly as big as a lawn mower, was not very maneuverable. It had to move parallel to the grain of the wood. So when I found myself in a kitchen going back and forth a short distance between cabinets, it was almost impossible to reverse course without leaving a scar shaped like the mark a paint roller leaves if you just touch it to a surface.

In all the time I've used this random orbit sander it's never left a scar of any kind. The big drum couldn't come closer than a foot from the cabinets. This little unit even gets a couple inches under the toe kick. With a 60 grit paper it will take down an eighth inch difference between planks in a few seconds. Sure, you have to crouch down on one knee, but you avoid the risk of hernia and pulled muscles that you run when load the massive drum sander into your car.

The random orbit technology is an advance comparable to the ball point over the fountain pen, or the laser level over the line level. There may be other brands or models that are even better than this one, but I have no complaints. The motor is smooth and powerful, but comfortable to use for extended periods with one or two handles. And your hand doesn't vibrate for half an hour after you've stopped as it does with some palm or belt sanders. Another advantage over a belt sander is that it won't devour shirttails or shoelaces or, in the worst case scenario, long hair.

WORKS GREAT, WHEN WORKING
I have owned this sander for about 2 years. When it is working, it is a great sander, much better than others I own, but in the time I have owned it I have had to replace the pad 3 times, and all the bearings once. This sander is not being used commercially, but in a home shop. Yesterday the pad came off again which is what happens when thay wear out, and this time it stripped out the threads in the hole that holds it on. I am sure if I checked the bolt every time I change a disc it would help, but when I pay $100.00 for a tool, I would expect it to stay togeather better than this. I'am not repairing it again. I am buying another brand.

The best sander with a glitch that can be fixed
The Bosch 3107DVS 5" won top honors in a major woodworking magazine, and well deserved. It is aggressive enough to remove a lot of material fast, yet gentle enough with a reduced speed for fine work as well, thanks to the variable speed. The dust collection is perfect if hook it up to a shop vac. I use a vac with a 2 1/2" diameter hose. It is larger than the intake port on the sander, and what that does is allow the vac to pick up that one percent of the dust that escapes around the edge of the sander. Even the expensive Fein setup does not get every drop of dust. The 8 holes in the base suck up most of it, but the dust generated at the edges escapes. The 2 1/2" diameter hose, attached to a regular size roll around shop vac, leaks real bad around the fitting, so it sucks way more air than the sander allows, and that even picks up that last little bit escaping into the air.
The vibration of this sander is next to nothing. I used a cheap vibrating sander for a while, and my hands started to throb. The Bosch 3107DVS you can use for an hour with no discomfort.
All in all, it is the best sander out there. I had bought the 6" version and absolutely loved it so much, that when one of these 5" models became available to me in a deal, I grabbed it. The advantage of the 5-inch is that the paper is available locally. If you are ever in a pinch, the 6-inch paper is tough to find. By the way, buy the Mirka paper for these here at Amazon. It is a deal. The local home center sells the Norton paper, which does not hold up like the Mirka. With the Mirka here you get twice as much paper, at half again as much price. So not only does it last longer, and give you a more even job, but the upfront price is better as well.
Now onto the glitch. The 3107DVS has a single screw holding the pad onto the base. That base is an oscillating cast piece with 4 indentations that accept the 4 prongs. The whole inside of the unit is well greased. Even the edge-rim that it rides on has grease on it. The problem is that the cast piece and the sanding pad are often (not always) covered with grease as well. So you have a wildly gyrating cast piece, well greased sometimes, a single screw is holding that on. They do install that screw with MEDIUM duty loctite from the factory. What I did was clean the grease off of the mating surface only with some alcohol, replaced the loctite on the screw, and added an INTERNAL tooth multi serrated lock washer to the holding nut. They sell them at Home Depot. Bring the nut with you and match it up. Bosch uses metric size bolts.
Home Depot has been making room for their newly acquired Rigid line of tools. They bought the factory. Consequently they put some of the existing line up for clearance, and this Bosch sander is one of those items.
The woodworking magazine that rated this sander the best, also gave the Porter Cable best value award. It is less money, not the same level as this Bosch, but does a nice job. If you go into spending more money, you can get the Bosch 6" which doesn't have any glitches, or the more expensive Porter Cable. Both of them are highly recommended.
So there you have it. A great sander with a glitch that can be fixed. After looking at it, you might even have something further that will prevent the pad from ever working its way loose. Once it does, then the ridges holding it in line, move beyond the indentations, and can create damage. So it is important to deal with the problem.

By the way these Bosch sanders have less vibration than the expensive Fein sanders. I love Fein equipment, I have the RT-1800 Fein router, which is best in class, and the Fein Multi-Master kit, and love it as well. But after using both sanders, I prefer these Bosch's for their lower vibration, and equally aggressive material removing capabilities.
So if you want the best for less, get the Bosch. The glitch is why I gave it 4 stars. Hope this helps.

Loved it at first . . . but
When I first bought this sander I simply loved it. For the price it was a great piece of equipment. But then came the issue of service. The screws that hold the sanding base onto the unit have a tendency to come loose. If you do not keep these screws tight at all times, it tears up the base of the sander. In normal use, you don't realize the screws are loose until after you turn off the sander. I took the tool in for repairs and learned the design of the tool required complete replacement of the motor, an $... repair. I took the $... and bought the Porter Cable random orbit sander. It is more money but all in all a much better piece of equipment. ... Read more

Features

• Fits Bosch models 1276D and 1276DVS Belt Sanders
• Resin on resin aluminum oxide medium open coat
• 120 grit bulk package of 10

Features

• One-year warranty
• 3.3 amp, 120-volt motor
• 180-degree turning capability to sand two surfaces
• Quick-change lever for fast sanding belt changes
• All-magnesium head for balance and durability

Reviews (2)

It comes with a nice blue case with red accent!
The Bosch compact belt sander is a very well engineered and manufactured tool. I have used it on many occasions for home repair and/or remodeling with great success. The size and weight of the tool are substantial enough to ensure durability and long life. The shape and variable speed assist in keeping the tool under control. If you have the need to remove stock via sanding and it is in an oddball location, or a full-blown belt sander is a bit too much, take this puppy out for a ride!

Handy and Portable
I bought the factory reconditioned version of this tool and haven't had any regrets. It's a great companion for my Bosch planer when I'm doing edge work. I've used it with my Bosch Finecut saw to true up studs when installing drywall. And I used it to do surface prep work when painting wooden house siding. The variable speed adjustment helps to match the speed to the work. I am pleased, but it gets 4 stars since I had difficulty with the front roller when adjusting the tracking on a new sanding belt. Being unfamiliar with the adjustment mechanism, I got it too loose, and the front roller came off. You must look carefully at the shape of the roller pin ends to reinsert them into the right hole in the bracket. It takes a bit of studying, but once you know the particulars, using this helpful tool is a breeze. Go Bosch!! ... Read more

Features

• Fits Bosch model 1274DVS Belt Sander
• Resin on resin aluminum oxide medium open coat
• 40 grit bulk package of 10

Features

• Fits Bosch model 1274DVS Belt Sander
• Resin on resin aluminum oxide medium open coat
• 120 grit bulk package of 10

Features

• Fits Bosch model 1274DVS Belt Sander
• Resin on resin aluminum oxide medium open coat
• 50 grit bulk package of 10

Features

• Fits Bosch model 1278VSK Compact Belt Sander
• Includes (1 each of): 60 Grit, 80 Grit, 120 Grit

Features

• Premium resin-bonded aluminum oxide
• Load resistant for uniform sanding

Features

• Premium resin-bonded aluminum oxide
• Load resistant for uniform sanding