PORTER-CABLE 371K 2 1/2 by 14-Inch Compact Belt Sander Kit

by PORTER-CABLE

• Textured rubber body grip provides comfortable non-slip surface
• Flush side enables sanding up to perpendicular surface
• Metal components provide durability for professional applications
• Dust sealed, recessed switch offers accessibility while minimizing unintended turn-offs
• Removable auxiliary handle offers better control when two-handed use is desired; Cord exit grip offers auxiliary gripping for various orientations

Product Description

Amazon.com

This must-have kit features a belt sander that won the Handy Magazine Innovation Award in 2006 for its host of winning features. First, this capable compact sander houses a 120-volt, 5 Amp motor that delivers serious power within a portable, lightweight frame that you can comfortably hold in your hand. Combined with a large rubber grip on the surface, this sander allows you the precise control your jobs demand. Even in tight spaces, this handy instrument can comfortably maneuver up to a perpendicular, 90-degree angles thanks to its flush side and its compact, 2-1/2 x 14-inch belt. Conveniences like the removable anterior dust port and the dust-sealed recessed switch that reduces accidental switch-off will make this your go-to sander no matter the job. The Porter-Cable 371K includes the sander, an 80-grit sanding belt, a durable carrying case, and a manual.

From the Manufacturer

For woodworking, furniture making, cabinet installation, trim work, repairs, flooring and remodeling the Porter-Cable 371 2-1/2 x 14 inch belt sander enables one handed use, flush sanding to a vertical surface, and a wide variety of capabilities that would normally require a large, cumbersome belt sander. This small lightweight unit is ideal for flooring repairs and transitions (like thresholds, header strips), counter top installation, edge work, and other wood working applications. The textured rubber body increases comfort and control while metal components and recessed, sealed switches deliver professional quality and ease of use. The 371K ships with 3 80 grit belts, dust port, removable auxiliary handle and carrying case. Ninety-day money back guarantee, 3 year limited warranty, 1 year free service contract.

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

75 of 77 people found the following review helpful

3.0 out of 5 stars Important Safety Concerns June 21, 2007

By Nick C

This is a very handy little sander. Very ergonomic. Two safety concerns: 1) Portions of the chassis get very hot very quickly. It's easy to burn yourself. 2) Belt tracking is adjusted by turning a small plastic knob that functions as a bolt head. The bolt shaft is threaded into the chassis. There is a spring that surrounds the bolt shaft, and is therefore trapped between the chassis and the bolt head. This spring is under compression, which creates an outward force against the inside of the bolt head. This force prevents the adjustment knob from "walking" out of adjustment when the sander is running. Unfortunately, the spring is not strong enough to do its job, and the tracking must constantly be adjusted. Worse, the creeping of the adjustment knob is in the direction that causes the belt to work its way off the platen. This could result in workpiece damage, or even an injury to the operator. I'm going to replace the spring with a much stronger one to try and corect this problem.

72 of 74 people found the following review helpful

3.0 out of 5 stars IT'S OK, BUT... July 5, 2007

By Dr. Dave

Amazon Verified Purchase

When I saw the first ad for this Porter Cable Compact Belt Sander, I had to have it. Having is not as sweet as wanting, unfortunately. It gets hot, REAL HOT! If I'm going to be using it more than just a couple of minutes I have to put on gloves, it gets that hot. Also the belt tracking has to adjusted almost constantly, a real pain in the rear. It is, however, good for getting into tight spaces, but being as compact and powerful as it is, it can get away from you before you know it, it really takes two hands to keep this little beast under control.

My other belt sander is a Bosch 3"x21" model that is much more refined, it's very easy to control and on large surfaces I run it one-handed quite frequently with no problems, there's no problem with heat and I never, I repeat NEVER have to adjust the Tracking!

Bottom line: I wish I had just saved my money. Because of the heat and tracking issues, I just really don't like using this sander, though It does look very cool on the shelf as a $119.00 paper weight.

UPDATE: I decided to try Mirka belts and was surprised to find that the tracking issues all but disappeared, AND, it doesn't seem to get as hot (perhaps because I haven't had to run it as long since the Mirka belts work as well as they do). I've come to the conclusion that Black & Decker companies don't make the best sandpaper. Switch to Mirka, I think you'll be pleased with the results.

60 of 63 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Thank You P.C.!! November 30, 2006

By T. Palmer

I've had this sander for about 3 weeks; I first tested it on rough cut red oak, worked great! Since, I've refinished pine, sanded scribe lines on counter tops and smoothed off a piece of old roofing slate to make chalk board. It's about the size of a small loaf of bread, Very light and plenty of power. The case is a real plus; I cut out the little divider now I can fit extra belts and a eraser in it as well. Once you adjust the belt tracking it stays put. The vacuum attachment is great when I'm using it in the shop. I highly recommend this sander for jobs where those big 3"X21" sanders are just too unwieldy. You can be much more delicate with this sander.