first , I be bias . I own several Bosch tool and I like they . this belt sander be no exception . it be well balanced , easy to handle , small enough to get in some pretty tight space , and the variable speed be a definite plus . the first thing I use it for be to take some old rough paint off about 400 foot of fascia . not exactly fun even with this tool but at least my arm do not feel like they be go to fall off when I be do -lrb- like the last time I do this with my ancient craftsman -rrb- . at the lowest speed -lrb- to minimize clog -rrb- with 40 grit belt it take about 3-4 hour and I spend as much time move my home-made scaffolding as actually sand .