DEWALT DW431 3-Inch x 21-Inch Heavy Duty Variable Speed Electronic Belt Sander

by DEWALT

Product Description

Amazon.com Review

DeWalt's 3-by-21-inch belt sander is a popular choice with do-it-yourselfers and many professionals, as well. It has a 5.2 amp motor with electronic speed control that keeps the belt speed constant under load. The variable-speed dial is easy to use and recessed well enough to prevent unintended adjustments while working; however, it's located near the rear of the handle, making on-the-fly changes a little tricky. DeWalt mounted the dust bag on the front of the sander, and while this allows the tool to be used in tight spaces, we found that the arrangement forced us to work directly above the sander in order to maintain good visibility. As the tool heats and cools, expanding and contracting, the self-tensioning system adjusts the belt to prevent slippage. We found it to track well from one operation to the next, requiring little adjustment. This is a great sander for do-it-yourselfers and most professionals, but it's not quite as burly as the biggest 3-by-21-inch belt sanders on the market. People who intend to use a belt sander for the most strenuous tasks should consider a model with a bigger motor. --Brian Trinen

From the Manufacturer

DEWALT DW431 3-Inch x 21-Inch Heavy Duty Variable Speed Electronic Belt Sander

Product Details

• Product Dimensions: 15.5 x 6.8 x 7.5 inches ; 9.8 pounds
• Shipping Weight: 9.8 pounds
• Shipping: This item is also available for shipping to select countries outside the U.S.
• ASIN: B00002232O
• California residents: Click here for Proposition 65 warning.
• Item model number: DW431
• Average Customer Review: 3.4 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (14 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #363,700 in Home Improvement (See Top 100 in Home Improvement)
• Discontinued by manufacturer: Yes

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

38 of 41 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars ok i guess, July 12, 2000

By 

jeff (New England) - See all my reviews

This review is from: DEWALT DW431 3-Inch x 21-Inch Heavy Duty Variable Speed Electronic Belt Sander (Tools & Home Improvement)

This tool is way too under powered, if I push too hard i can stop it.The tool is very awkward feeling and seems is top-heavy, having a tendency to gouge the work.It is a good belt sander though for doing very light duty sanding, i wouldnt reccomened this sander for heavy stock removial, or re-finshing work.The bag in the front is nice but it screws up your whole grip, and it is very uncomfortable after long periods of use. If you do light work buy it if not by the porter cable or bosch.

18 of 19 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Handy Dandy Little Sander, November 7, 2000

By 

Wallace R. Brooks (South Texas) - See all my reviews

This review is from: DEWALT DW431 3-Inch x 21-Inch Heavy Duty Variable Speed Electronic Belt Sander (Tools & Home Improvement)

This sander is lightweight and easy to use. Heavy-Duty is a misnomer. I have a neolithic belt sander from another manufacturer that is heavy duty. After it gouged a divot out of a book-matched glued up panel, I decided to try something else. I can control this sander with one hand across a panel. I can also hold it with one hand and take down edges and glue lines on small boxes. If you find this sander hard to control, consider buying the DW 4070 sanding frame. Belt sanding panels becomes an easy, fun experience. I really like this little sander.

24 of 27 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars DeWalt Variable Speed belt sander - the one to beat, June 20, 2000

By 

Brett Rodney (Kent, Washington.) - See all my reviews

This review is from: DEWALT DW431 3-Inch x 21-Inch Heavy Duty Variable Speed Electronic Belt Sander (Tools & Home Improvement)

The front-mounted bag is one of the best features of this machine. My previous sander had a typical rear bag that stuck out in the view of your work and would sometimes even fall off. Another great feature is the variable speed. A belt sander can remove material really quickly. This feature minimizes the tendency to accidently overdo it. You can't beat DeWalt products and their features.