Review on 🔧 Makita 9920 3 Inch 24 Inch Variable Speed Belt Sander: The Ultimate Woodworking Tool by Brandon Grzankowski

I was in the process of finishing an oak floor when my 38 year old Black and Decker "Best" (actually made in the USA) 3 x 24 belt sander finally gave out. With some new belts I went looking for a 3x24 sander and came across the Makita 9920. I've used other belt sanders like the Porter Cable but I've always liked the low profile and balance of my old B&D. Another benefit was that I could mount it upside down in my old Workmate and had a portable "bench grinder". The Makita looked the most humble of all brands, and when I received it (it was moved overnight by Revain) I was struck by its feel and balance. I'm even more impressed by its power and adjustable speed. All of this came in very handy when I was doing the raw and center finish on a newly built alder 6/4 bookcase. Pros: Low profile; Good balance; quiet (compared to my old B&D); extraordinary dust collection; Power (8.8 amps) and precise speed control; cut "nose" on the body allows for tight grinding; The flat top and low-pro dust bag allows me to mount it on my Workmate with the pins upside down. It's huge. Cons: Crappy dust bag closure (for $200+ a zip would be nice); non-ergonomic front handle (teak replacement that would suit my style better). While it's by no means a "cheap" grinder (professional tools never are, and this is indeed a pro tool) and can be a bit pricey for the average DIYer, I found it to be worth the money and I'm really looking Excuses to use this grinder. The few downsides I've found aren't distracting enough to lower my book's 5-star rating, and probably won't bother too many people. I'm good enough at modifying and upgrading parts, so it's fine. Conclusion: If I lose this tool tomorrow, will I spend $$$ on a new one? Absolutely! And just for the record, I'm not affiliated with any particular power tool brand; if it works well i will get it.