10 Best Sanding Blocks Reviewed & Rated
In construction, woodworking, auto bodies, motorcycles, and other areas where sanding is necessary, you need an ideal sanding partner for the best results. You can invest in a sanding paper or a sanding block, but the difference is like night and day. Using a sanding paper is time-consuming, and leads to inconsistencies due to uneven pressure on your fingertips. However, using a block is as easy as falling off a log. But what is a sanding block?
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A block is anything that holds sandpaper and is often in the shape of a wooden block. It can be a piece of wood that you wrap sandpaper around, or even an empty bottle. The idea is to create consistent pressure for a better finishing job. However, getting the perfect device might be a challenge, seeing as there are various devices in the market. Stick around for some recommendations, but first here is a buying guide.
10 Best Sanding Blocks
1. Festool 583129
First, the tool is lightweight, weighing a measly 1.6-ounces; thus you can work for extended periods with ease. Moreover, it is lengthy and therefore makes quick work of any job. However, our best features were the stickfix hook system and that it can get into tight spaces with relative ease.
Stickfix system – The 583129 uses a hook and loop system to connect the abrasive. It ensures the abrasive stays in place and doesn’t deform under pressure resulting in an even finish.
Build – First, the unit is made of 2 injection molded plastic parts that clip together. The top molding sits in your hand well and feels natural. You will also appreciate the lip as it allows you to get into tight spots. Moreover, the top part can be unclipped resulting in a thin but robust pad.
Only Brilliant two abrasive is available, but it is versatile and works on MDF, paintwork, timber, and plaster.
Weight: 1.6 ounces
Dimensions: 7.2 * 2.5 * 2-inches
#-year limited warranty
Who is it for?
Well, this is a Festool tool, and we recommend it for everyone given the quality. However, it is for lightweight tasks such as knocking down sharp corners. It is also versatile and can be used in various industries.
It is affordable
The abrasive it retails with can be used for various jobs
It is versatile and effortlessly gets into tight spaces
The tool is pretty lightweight, and thus cannot be used for demanding tasks
2. Sanding Block For Wood Or Autobody
One exciting feature of this unit is the quality build. First, it is made of high impact wood, and this can withstand abuse and is contoured to fit in your palm reducing fatigue. However, our best features were the abrasive economy and the clips.
Abrasive Economy – The Preppin Weapon is designed to use a large percentage of the sandpaper. First, it works with any regular sandpaper, and all that is required is to cut it into quarters. Then clip the edges, so most of the abrasive is used avoiding wastage.
Clips – You will also appreciate that the clips are designed to stay in place. They are easy to attach and detach thanks to two levers, and can hold up to 4-pieces of sandpaper. Thus when one is over, all that is needed is to remove it and continue working. The clips are stainless steel, therefore, will last longer, and they are on the ends, so that very little paper is wasted.
Weight: 6.1 ounces
Dimensions: 7.5 * 2.6 * 1.5-inches
Cuts sandpaper waste by up to 36%
Who is it for?
The Preppin’ Weapon is for people in the auto and timber industry. It is also great for people who are looking for a product that will work with standard sandpapers.
It is available in various colors and is easy to spot in a garage
It is durable
The paper goes into the block quickly
The block is broad and covers a large surface area
It is pricey
3. Warner Sanding Block Hand Sander
Another remarkable feature of the 34436 is that it has dimpled rubber that allows it to adjust to any uneven surface while maintaining the tautness of the abrasive. However our best features were the ergonomics, and that it is easy to use.
Ergonomics – First, the 34436 is a lightweight unit, and thus you can use it for long hours with relative ease. Furthermore, the grip is contoured, so it is easy to grip.
Ease of use – Thanks to its bright red color, the unit is easy to spot in any job site saving you time. Moreover, loading the abrasive is simple enough; push the black handles on the top allowing the red part to lift about ½ an inch. Then you can slide the sandpaper and bush it back in. It secures the sandpaper with relative ease and ensures it is ever in place.
Tip: You can invest in several Warner sanding blocks for different grits of sandpaper and mark them with a sticker on top.
Weight: 2.88 ounces
Dimensions: 1.6 * 2.2 * 4.5-inches
Who is it for?
The Warner 34436 is a low-cost unit, and thus we recommend it for people on a tight budget. However, it is for light-duty tasks such as knocking off sharp corners.
The tool consists of an angled edge and a rounded edge so it can get into tight corners with relative ease
It is affordable, and you are getting more than you paid for
One shortcoming is that the unit is too light and thus you have to apply a ton of pressure to get the desired results
4. Aouker HS85180
First, the tool is lightweight at 2.4-ounces, and thus you can use it for long hours with ease. It is also ergonomic but more on that later. It allows you to use 1/3 of a standard sandpaper thanks to the metal clips.
Ergonomic – One strong point of the Aouker is that it is easy to use. First, it has a 7.1-inch size allowing you to sand a rather large area with relative ease. The bottom too is soft allowing you to sand contoured surfaces as it will adjust to the shape of the surface. Finally, it includes a padded handle, so it is easier to grip, and for comfort.
Metallic clips – Unlike the Warner sanding block, the Aouker includes metal clips at the edge reducing the wasted sandpaper. This design ensures that the tool holds only the sides of the sandpaper, so there is little waste. They also happen to be durable and will last for long as well, as strong maintaining a firm grip on the abrasive.
Weight: 2.4 ounces
Dimensions: 7.1 * 3.4 * 2.8-inches
Who is it for?
The HS85180 is for people with large areas that require sanding (not industrial though). We also recommend it for people on a budget and workers with slightly contoured surfaces.
It is affordable
It is large and thus sanding large areas will be a breeze
It is comfortable to use
Attaching the abrasive to the surface will be challenging especially for seniors; also, the slightly concave shape makes it difficult to use for wet sanding on a flat surface
5. TIMESETL Hand Sanding with Sponge Handle
Another fantastic feature is the aesthetics. The Timesetl features a brightly colored handle as well as the body, and thus it is easy to spot at any job site. However, our best features were the quality build and the size.
Quality – The Timesetl is ABS plastic allowing it to withstand abuse. Thus you can expect it to last and handle challenging smoothing jobs. Moreover, the handle is padded increasing the comfort. It also happens to be non-slip even when working in wet conditions. You can expect to use this tool for lengthy periods with relative ease.
Size – The Timesetl is generously sized with a 7.3-inches length allowing you to sand large areas with relative ease, reducing the time it takes to complete a job.
Weight: 6.4 ounces
Dimensions: 7.3 * 3.6-inches
Uses standard sandpaper
Who is it for?
Though it is a bit bulky, it is for light sanding tasks. It is ideal for smoothing drywalls, timber and in some instances, it can be used in the auto industry.
The grip is well built and comfortable to use
Switching grits will be straightforward, and holds the paper flat
It is affordable
It is light, and thus cannot be used for heavy-duty tasks; furthermore, the clips are only slightly more natural to use than the Aouker, but they will still be difficult for senior citizens
6. Festool 496962
First, the tool is massive with a 7.5-inch length allowing you to sand larger areas in one pass. It also allows you to complete larger tasks with relative ease. However, our best features were that it is ergonomic, and the dust extraction.
Ergonomic – The Festool 496962 is designed to be easy to use. First, the corners are rounder on the burr layer, so your workpiece doesn’t sustain damage. Moreover, the sanding pad is soft and thus adjusts to the shape of the surface you are sanding. It is best for sanding rough areas. Finally, the handle is designed to sit naturally in your hands allowing you to work for long hours with ease.
Dust Extraction – The 496962 trumps other units in that it eases clean up as it will collect all shavings and particles. The tool, therefore, is excellent for Asthmatic people.
Weight: 5 ounces
Dimensions: 7.5 * 3.4 * 3-inches
Who is it for?
The 496962 is best for people on a generous budget. However, given the features, we recommend it for Asthmatic people or workers who want to ease cleanup.
It eases the clean-up processes thanks to the dust-extraction mechanism
It is lightweight allowing one to work for lengthy periods
It is easy to use
It is well-build thus long lasting but also designed to maintain surfaces
It is pricey
The suction moves inadvertently when in use, disrupting your workflow as you have to stop and secure it
7. 3M 05520 2-3/4
The 3M uses a standard clip-on system so attaching sandpaper is rather effortless. It also keeps the paper in place. However, our top features were that it works in wet and dry conditions and that it is easy to use.
Useable in wet and dry conditions – The 3M sanding block is top quality, and can work in damp or dry conditions provided you use waterproof abrasive sheets. Seeing as this is rubber, it will not rot when in wet conditions neither will it rust.
Quality build – Other than working in damp and dry conditions, the 3M sanding block can withstand abuse, and we recommend it for demanding jobs. The unit also happens to be ergonomically designed, that is rounded, for comfort allowing you to work for long hours with ease.
Size: 5-inch and 8-inch
Who is it for?
Well, it depends on the tool you get. The 5-inch is best for quick cleanups, while the 8-inch device is for use on more demanding jobs.
It flexes allowing you to sand uneven surfaces
The 8-inch block is larger than standard blocks and thus enables you to sand larger areas in fewer passes
It is a quality tool and will last and works effortlessly
One shortcoming is that you have to use the 3M sandpaper; also, some customers claim it is not the best for wet sanding. It is pricey
8. Motor Guard SB-1 Soft Block
The Motor Guard is designed for the auto industry but is also widely preferred in woodworking and painting. Our top features were that it is dual sided and reduces waste.
Dual Sided – The SB-1 has grit on both sides increasing its resourcefulness.
Reduced waste – Unlike most sanding blocks that result in wasted frit, the SB-1 uses close o 100% of grit reducing the waste.
Dimensions: 2.5 * 0.5 * 5-inches
Who is it for?
We recommend the Motor Guard SB-1 for people in the auto-industry owing to its flexibility. However, it also works like a charm when finishing woodwork.
It flexes, allowing you to sand uneven surfaces
It is inexpensive yet top-quality; it’s a premium tool but affordable
It is hard enough for even sanding
Well, you cannot replace the grip, and the only option is to invest in another sanding block
9. Mirka MVHB35
Another fabolous feature of this product is the multi-hole grip face that ensures you use all of the sandpaper. The pad also happens to be firm for block sanding and leveling all surface contours. However, our top features were the dust extraction and the ergonomics.
Ergonomics – The Mirka MVBH35 is designed to sit comfortably in your palm. The top is contoured, and thus it is cozy. You can work with the MVBH35 for hours on end without fatigue.
Dust-extraction – Another strong selling point of the Mirka MVBH35 is that it makes clean-up easier. It works with the MV-912 dust extractor and will remove all the shavings as soon as they are produced. It is especially great for asthmatic individuals. Moreover, the suction valve can be adjusted to reduce or increase the suction.
Weight: 7.2 ounces
Dimensions: 6.6 * 3.5 * 3-inches
Who is it for?
First, we recommend the MVBH35 for anyone on a budget but is on the hunt for a premium option. Moreover, if you are asthmatic or you want to reduce the clean-up required, the MVBH35 is worth considering.
It is affordable
It is maneuverable and easy to use
It is durable and will stand abuse
It does not work with standard sandpaper; thus it might be expensive in the long run; also, it only works with the MV-912 extractor (it would be better if it worked with different extractors)
10. Sanding Mouse Hook and Loop Sanding Block
Ergonomics – A significant selling point of the Peach Tree Sanding mouse block is the shape. The tool is in the shape of a computer mouse, and it is a wonder why it took this long to design this. The Peach Tree is available in two sizes; 5” and 6” and sold separately. We recommend the smaller block for maneuverability and the larger one for sanding large areas.
Hook and loop system – The Peachtree works with a standard abrasive disk, thanks to the loop and hook. It works with any hole pattern and even no hole discs. It ensures the sandpaper is always taught for better results.
Size: Available in 6 and 5-inches
Weight: 3.36 ounces
Who is it for?
If you work with standard orbital abrasive, we recommend you invest in the Peach Tree sanding mouse. Moreover, it is great for quick touch-ups or thorough sanding where a sander may be too much.
The Peach-Tree sanding mouse is angled inwards allowing you to get into corners and up against a side wall
It is durable thanks to the composite-build
It is flexible and comfortable
It is affordable
Well, it wastes a lot of abrasive and is only suitable for small tasks
Best Sanding Block Selection Criteria
Commercial stores or any online store will offer a variety of sanding blocks, but there are a couple of essential things to consider before investing in one
- Natural clenching – Comfort is paramount when spending in a sanding block. You should buy an easy to grip block and one that is easy to use from above as it is to use from below when sanding overhead boards. Moreover, get a unit that spreads the load to a larger area allowing you to apply more pressure and sand larger areas in less time. Furthermore, comfortable blocks will let you work for more extended periods without fatigue.
- Utilization of sandpaper – A quality block should utilize inexpensive sandpaper with the same efficiency it uses quality sandpaper; without wastage. Though a tool maybe affordable it might be expensive in the long run due to sandpaper wastage. It is best you invest in a pricey product but one that uses sandpaper efficiently.
- Cost-effective – Invest in a block that provides the most bang for the buck. Low-cost units are tempting, but you have to consider how long you expect it to last. Consequently, you could be paying for branding and marketing when investing in a pricey unit. We recommend you check what previous customers have to say before you invest in a product.
- Weight and visual clearance – Sanding blocks shouldn’t be light nor should they be too heavy. You want a tool with a bit of weight so that exerting downward pressure will be simple enough. However, it should also be light that it doesn’t cause fatigue during overhead For visual clearance, invest in a tool whose top is skewed back. This design allows you to watch what’s happening even when in a tight spot.
- Surface – Consider the surface you are working on. A sanding block may be great for wooden surfaces but is not best for auto body or drywall. Also consider the shape of the surface you are polishing. If you desire to use, rigid blocks get units that match the shape of the surface.
- Types of sanding blocks – Sanding blocks are available in two designs; rigid and flexible units. If your work mostly entails working on flat surfaces, we recommend you invest in a rigid tool. Preferably a rubber block. However, if your job involves sanding weird shapes (concave and convex), we suggest you invest in a flexible tool; one that conforms to the shape of the surface. Furthermore, as the grit gets finer, you get terrific versatility as you can wrap the block around tight radiuses.
- Durability – Finally invest in a product that is long-lasting.
FAQS
How can I make a sanding block?
Though it is not advisable to make your sanding block, the process is rather straight forward. Get a piece of wood, preferably rectangular, and standard sandpaper. Wrap it around the piece of wood, and then cut it such that it only covers the bottom and sides of the block. You can staple it on the sides, or you can hold it with your hands. Either way, ensure that it is ever taught.
Furthermore, you can make a sanding block with a handle by gluing a piece of wood on top.
How do I maintain my sanding block?
Every tool in your arsenal has to be serviced and for lasting effectiveness, and for it to serve you longer. Sanding blocks are no different. First, if you are using the Mirka or the Festool, you need to ensure that the adapter and the dust extraction ports are in top condition. If you are using the Preppin Weapon or another block that relies on clips, you have to ensure that the clips are ever sturdy to hold the abrasive. Also, keep all metallic tools in a cool and dry place to keep them from rusting.
Why should I use a sanding block?
There various reasons why you should invest in a sanding block, but one that stands out is the even distribution of pressure. Pressure will be higher on the tips of your finger when using your palm, and thus the results will not be as desired. However, with a block allows you to apply equal pressure to all areas of in contact with the abrasive.
Moreover, it is time-saving and results in quality work. Finally, you can utilize more of your sandpaper.
Can any abrasive be used on all blocks?
The short answer is no. Some blocks will accept standard rectangular sandpaper, but even then it differs in size. Some like the Preppin require orbital abrasives. You must also consider the system the tool uses to attach abrasive and get sandpaper that matches that.
Can one sanding block be used on wood and auto?
Well, it depends on the features of the tool, but often you need different tools. First, vehicles are contoured, and thus you should invest in a flexible unit that will take the shape of the car. Second, it is best you get a rigid sanding block for timber.
Conclusion
Whether the piece you are working on is a masterpiece or a drywall surface, sanding is essential for the perfect finish. However, hand sanding is demanding but it has a touch of authenticity, and one can get into tight spaces with ease. Sanding blocks reduce the effort and save time associated with hand sanding, and we recommend you pick any of the ten products above.
Finally, there is something you think we missed, let us know in the comments below.
