A right-angle sander with coarse and fine modes, the Makita is designed for use only with a vacuum, which may be just as well-it was the clear winner in the stock-removal test. In three timed sessions in coarse mode, it removed an average of 54 grams, nearly 70% more than the runners-up. But the BO6040 was hard to control even with two hands locked on, regardless of vacuum power. In fine mode, minimal vibration, wobble, and workpiece movement allowed one-handed operation. For fast stock removal, this is the best value among dual-mode sanders, even though the vacuum hose is a $54 accessory.

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