straight line or orbital air board file

[danp76]

I typically use a Viking air board, but was thinking of buying a smaller one, like a 9" or 11" one. I see Hutchins offers both straight line and orbital board files, what are you guys using? I have a Hutchins 2000 hustler, which to me doesn't cut like the Viking. I'm thinking that the orbital one might be better for a finer finish, but not cut as fast.

 

[DATEC]

I have nothing but Hutchins sanders. I have the Hustler and the orbital. I find the orbital is alot harder to stop from jumping around side to side and just all over the place at times. It is finniky with how you are holding it and so I just use the long board. You might find it to your liking but I don't really care for it. It does produce a finer finnish but does take alittle getting use to.

Dave

 

[Bob Hollinshead]

I got rid of my Viking many years ago after buying a ND 8" DA, the Viking airfile just didn't work well for me. http://www.amazon.com/National-Detroit-900-8-Inch-Sander/dp/B000IHSN4U Most of my work gets done by hand now but once in awhile I'll rough out with the 8" mudbuster. Trying to use a viking on flimsy panel like a rooof just creates grief, the 8" DA does a much better job IMO.

 

[DATEC]

The mudbuster is something I wanted to get but never did. I seen one being used and thought dam that's nice but my boss won't buy the paper for it and I'm not supplying the tools AND material, noway, but for my home shop? I will have to look into it Hutchins has one also I wonder if their made buy the same manuf..
As for Viking, I never could get use to the handle setup, I started with Hutchins and am use to the feel and they lasted longer then the Viking before needing repaired, but everyone is different.

Dave