The Bottom Line
I've never really been a fan of sanding sponges. They always seemed more like a kitchen sponge than a sanding tool to me.
However, I got a different feel from the Gator Zip Sander. Perhaps it was the ergonomically-designed handhold or the ability to change to different grits of sandpaper, but I really enjoyed using the Gator Zip (which, considering my hatred for hand sanding, is a real accomplishment). The Zip seemed to make hand sanding go far quicker than I expected, and I was please with the finished results.
I'll be eager to try this system with future projects.
However, I got a different feel from the Gator Zip Sander. Perhaps it was the ergonomically-designed handhold or the ability to change to different grits of sandpaper, but I really enjoyed using the Gator Zip (which, considering my hatred for hand sanding, is a real accomplishment). The Zip seemed to make hand sanding go far quicker than I expected, and I was please with the finished results.
I'll be eager to try this system with future projects.
Pros
- Ergonomically-designed grip is comfortable in the hand to reduce fatigue
- Hook-and-loop attachment system makes changing sandpaper quick and easy
- Hexagonal shape designed to easily get into tight spots
Cons
- Can use non-Zip branded hook-and-loop sandpaper, but the shape of the pad makes it impractical
- 220-grit sandpaper lost grit quicker than anticipated
Description
- Nine different grits of Zip Sanding sheets are available.
- The pointed ends of each sheet are perfect for getting into tight corners.
- Can be used for many more tasks than woodworking, such as stripping paint, sanding drywall or metal.
Guide Review - Gator Zip Multi-Surface Sanding Tool
As you may have noted from previous projects, I tend to view hand sanding much like a pouring isopropyl alcohol on an open wound - just because it needs to be done doesn't mean it's going to be a pleasant experience.
Using the Zip Sander was a lot more palatable. It still involved the effort involved in hand sanding, but I found no typical issues of tearing sandpaper, issues with getting into tight corners or sanding rounded-over edges. The Zip Sander isn't pliable enough to evenly sand intricate profiles (which will probably still need to be smoothed the old-fashioned way, with folded sandpaper), and it probably isn't a large-enough footprint for sanding large surfaces, but for detail hand-sanding work, I consider the Zip Sanding system a great addition to my workshop.
Using the Zip Sander was a lot more palatable. It still involved the effort involved in hand sanding, but I found no typical issues of tearing sandpaper, issues with getting into tight corners or sanding rounded-over edges. The Zip Sander isn't pliable enough to evenly sand intricate profiles (which will probably still need to be smoothed the old-fashioned way, with folded sandpaper), and it probably isn't a large-enough footprint for sanding large surfaces, but for detail hand-sanding work, I consider the Zip Sanding system a great addition to my workshop.
