DIYers Are Loving The Affordable Sander You Can Find At Harbor Freight

Every DIYer wants a sander that's of good quality and reliable, but also inexpensive. Unfortunately, with the inflation and skyrocketing taxes, finding one is a bit of a struggle these days. That is, until you check out what Harbor Freight has to offer. Warrior is one of the brands owned by Harbor Freight, and it is known for its budget-friendly power tools, which include drills, saws, oscillating tools, and sanders. If you are looking for an affordable but dependable sander, you're in luck because Harbor Freight is selling the Warrior 1.1 Amp Corner/Detail Sander for just $19.99.

With its palm-sized form and lightweight build, the Warrior sander is perfect for small to medium projects, particularly smoothing out corners of a wooden structure. Its triangular base makes it easy to tackle even the most hard-to-reach spots. The Velcro-like hook-and-loop fastener on the base also makes switching out sanding pads easier and faster. The Warrior sander also comes with a detachable dust collection bag, so you won't make a mess each time you use the device. It automatically collects sanding debris while the compact power tool is in use. With a top speed of 12,500 orbits per minute, the tool has enough power to take on various types of uneven surfaces.

The Warrior 1.1 Amp Corner/Detail Sander is a hit among many DIYers for many reasons, although it's undeniable that its price tag is the biggest factor for its popularity. For a tool that retails for below $25, this portable sander provides functionality while offering an accessible entry point into power sanding for both beginners and hobbyists alike. On Harbor Freight's website, most of the feedback from the more than 1,800 reviews the product has accumulated raves about its affordability being its strongest selling point. Many could not even believe how much cheaper it is compared to rival products. For reference, Black+Decker's similar sander sells for more than twice the Warrior sander's market price at $43.98.

Apart from pricing, the Warrior palm sander has also received praise for its lightweight body and minimal vibration, making it easier to hold and handle for long periods or during prolonged sanding sessions. Its user-friendly triangular design also highlights how useful it is as a palm sander compared to an orbital sander in reaching hard-to-reach corners. Users have also pointed out that due to its compact size, it's quite easy to tuck away when not in use, as it doesn't take up much space. Overall, 95% of customers recommend Harbor Freight's budget sander, and it has also garnered a solid 4.6-star rating when its price, ease of use, value, size, and weight are considered.

Despite the Warrior palm sander's high ratings and popularity, it's not free from drawbacks, based on what some dissatisfied customers have shared in their reviews. The biggest concern a number of buyers have complained about is durability. According to them, the units they bought failed after only a few hours of use. One customer, who purchased the device to use on their custom closet doors, said it abruptly stopped working after just three hours of light work due to a defective switch. Another reviewer echoed the same sentiment, noting that their sander completely stopped functioning after using it a few times.

Another issue that drew criticism is the sander's dust collection system. Though a dust bag is built in for easy cleanup and to avoid sanding debris from making a mess, some owners find it inadequate. One maintenance technician commented that their sander's dust collector "leaked terribly," rendering the device unusable for their professional work, as it could lead to some mistakes when sanding wood projects. Others have cautioned would-be buyers to manage their expectations because Harbor Freight's budget sander is not for regular, intensive use. If anything, it can only handle very light sanding tasks. Still, for DIYers looking for a budget-friendly solution to occasional sanding needs, the Warrior sander remains a practical option.