: Hi Jenny

: I don't know who told you that the 1/4 sheet sanders were any better in any
: way shape or form, but, I don't see it. I've used both and the 1/4 sheet
: was good when there was nothing better. The high speed was a better choice
: than the slower models, but, the ROS has totally replaced all other
: orbitals. It cuts better, and works faster and if you don't want to cut as
: much or as fast, you use a little lighter paper. ??? I don't know why
: anyone would use a variable speed ROS as the whole idea of that sander was
: to eliminate the swirl marks and it was done by most models by increasing
: speed, and using multiple orbits. Decreasing speed can only work to
: eliminate one of the advantages of the ROS. I've never used anything but a
: regular ROS ( one speed ) and never had any problems with finish on
: furniture and unlike boats, furniture is something everyone looks at very
: closely. IMHO... speed control on a ROS is a waste of hard earned money. (
: like windshield wipers on your headlights ??? )
: Yeh, they work, but, to what end.

: A 1/4 sheet sander WILL work, is slower, but, stay away from the slower speed
: models. Make sure the rpm is up above 10,000 RPM. Anything slower and you
: will have swirl/scratches.

: Stick with the single speed ROS and save some money. It will work as good as
: you will ever need on one of these boats.

: Hope this helps.

: Rehd

Thanks Rehd, it helps a lot. I didn't realize I could reduce the aggressiveness of the sander by using a lighter paper. I sort of followed the belt sander discussion and was afraid the ROS might possibly inflict only slightly less damage in the wrong hands (like mine).
Jenny