DeWalt 4 1/2-Inch Angle Grinder

DeWalt 4 1/2-Inch Angle Grinder

An angle grinder is one of the most versatile power tools you can own. It can grind, cut, sharpen, strip, and sand. You’re only limited by the many accessories that are available for the 4 1/2″ size. Go and take a look in the power tool section of your local hardware store and you will see what I mean.

I suggest you go to your local hardware store and handle angle grinders from each of the major manufacturers before you buy. The 4.5″ DeWalt fit my hands the best and felt the most balanced. There are larger grinders out there, but this is the most common size for a good reason. The thick body gives you plenty to grip and is heavy enough to keep the grinder steady as you work. You can install the side handle on either the left or right side for comfort and control, or you can leave it off.

While cordless tools have made significant technological advances in just the past decade, I prefer corded tools for a variety of reasons (consistent, reliable power and avoiding planned obsolescence of battery systems are the two big ones.) An angle grinder needs to operate at high RPMs to work effectively and safely. Providing a constant flow of power will ensure you can do this every time.

I have used my angle grinder on a wide range of home improvement projects, but its versatility doesn’t stop there.

If you work on cars, you know it’s only a matter of time until you encounter a seized nut or a bolt head that you have to cut off. There are certain parts that you’re replacing anyway (ball joints, for example) that are far easier to cut off than to remove because of how corroded they tend to be. It’s also nice having the peace of mind knowing that you have a method of last resort to remove the component if all else fails.

My DeWalt angle grinder also sees regular use in my pole barn sharpening lawn mower blades. I have found that an angle grinder with a 60 or 80-grit flap wheel is the fastest and most effective way to sharpen blades. It’s much easier to get a quality edge than with using a bench grinder, as you’re removing less metal with each pass. A flap wheel is less likely to overheat the blade edge, which causes it to become brittle and crack when you inevitably mow over a stick or a rock.