I'm planning to buy the Mirka Deos 3 x 4 detail sander for repainting cabinets and I'm debating whether to invest in the Mirka dust extractor or just keep using my shop vac with a HEPA bag like I do with my Festool Rotex. Is the Mirka extractor worth it, or are there other good options that would work well with the Deos?
3 Answers
For on-site cabinet refinishing, I recommend the Makita VC4210L. It closely resembles the Mirka extractor and comes with a self-cleaning HEPA filter. Plus, it's a few hundred bucks cheaper, and I've had zero dust issues with it!
When it comes to dust collection, the static pressure in inches is crucial. I have a metal central vac that packs 121" of static pressure, which does a fantastic job. In my opinion, moving away from plastic tools is key, as they're not durable and typically end up in the trash when they break down, unlike a repairable metal vac.
I've got a Mirka 5" random orbital sander that I use with my shop vac and HEPA filter, and honestly, it does a fantastic job at keeping the dust down. I have a hose kit with various adapters, so switching between tools is super easy. My shop vac barely loses suction because the bag captures almost all the dust. Sure, a dedicated dust extractor might be quieter and adjustable, but I just can't justify the high price tag—it's around $1,000!
Have you checked out the CT Midi for $679? Seems like a solid investment for better dust control.