Choosing an angle grinder

[Joopie]

I want to get an angle grinder because a Dremel just isn't cutting it (heh heh) for the blade shaping and sharpening I do, particularly when resharpening lawnmower blades. What do you lot look for in an angle grinder? What are the practical differences between a 4-inch disc and a 6-inch disc? Same for amperage. At Home Depot, it seems the corded ones start a 7.5 amps and go up to 15 amps. I don't want to consider any higher amperages or go to 240 VAC.

 

[scarysamcary]

I use the SKIL 6amp 4 1/2 inch angle grinder. it's only $30 on amazon and it has lasted me 5 years with no problem. I wouldn't call it weak either as I have cut through plenty of hardened steel with it.

 

[Bühlmann]

I think you’ll want to stick with a 4.5” angle grinder. It will be much more maneuverable and easier to manage than a larger size. Consumables will be less expensive, too. I’m partial to Milwaukee and Makita, but any brand will work. Bosch, DeWalt, and others are more likely to last than a no-name Chinesium one. My biggest concern is the type of switch it uses. Purely personal preference, but I require a switch that locks “on” and I don’t care for paddles. YMMV, but it’s a feature that will become more important the more you use one.

 

[SilentPartner]

I’m a big milwaukee fan and own one of their 4-1/2 grinders and really don’t like how difficult it is to move the paddle and get the button to stay in and lock it on. when I buy another I’m going to go to one of the big box stores and hold it before I decide. It sucks wrestling with it.

 

[Drew Riley]

I like my angle grinders in a 2x72 configuration. Especially for sharpening mower blades… just angle the platen forward to 30 degrees off vertical and those blades practically sharpen themselves.

In all seriousness, I’d get a decent 4.5” with decent power and some flap disks.

 

[eveled]

Stick to a big name brand. Angle grinders take a beating.

 

[TheEdge01]

I have 3 angle grinders and this is my favorite. You can find them at Lowes for $40.