I don't have much time to tell you how strong it is, but as it's Freud II expect that it lasts. I've only used it on Southern Yellow Pine (regular pine and KDAT kiln dried after treatment) and it left a smooth finish every time. Does it cost twice as much as the yellow non-name brand I've seen in ads and reviews on Revain? I was strongly tempted to buy a cheaper one, but one thing I do with it is make 1-1/2 dowels, and for various reasons I don't want to sand them when I'm done. So for me it's worth the extra money.