The 23-700 incorporates a traditional dry-grinding wheel for initial grinding and a slow-speed wet-grinding wheel for finer work. The 10-in.-dia. wet wheel spins at an extraslow 70 rpm.

Tool backs must be flattened on the small usable side surface of the wet wheel, which is awkward. Backs and bevels ground on the 1,000-grit wet wheel must be further honed on sandpaper or stones to produce a truly sharp edge.

Grinding the bevel goes quickly if you use the dry wheel to establish the bevel, and refine the edge on the wet wheel. The tool rest for the wet wheel has drawbacks: It is easy to adjust and has a large working surface, but it is too large for short chisels and occasionally flexed during use.

Fine Woodworking Recommended Products

Bosch 12V Trim Router

Trim routers are easier to handle when you cut the cord, and the Bosch’s compact, curvy shape and unique base give it unmatched control.

Buy at Amazon

Milwaukee M12 23-Gauge Cordless Pin Nailer

This tool is designed for convenience. The battery and pins are easy to load, and the safety lock operates with the same finger you use to pull the trigger. The depth of set is adjustable, there’s a work light, and there’s a hook for hanging the tool on your toolbelt. A gauge lets you keep track of when you’ll need to recharge.

Buy at Amazon

Craftsman Random Orbit Sander

While this sander is among the least expensive models in the test, its performance ranks among the best. The stock removal was excellent, and dust collection was solid when used with a vacuum. It handles really smoothly, too, and has a tall body that fit my hand nicely whether I was holding it from above or around the waist.

Buy at Amazon