Enjoy Sanding Freedom and Convenience With Makita’s AWS-Ready 40V max XGT Belt Sander
If you’ve invested into Makita’s 40V max XGT battery system for woodworking tools, the high-performance line has very real advantages and continues to grow. The Makita 40V max XGT Belt Sander is Team Teal’s latest woodworking solution to replace your corded tools. Check out the details and see if it has what you need to cut the cord.
Makita 40V XGT Belt Sander Performance
- No-Load Speed: 390 – 1,540 FPM
- Belt Size: 3 x 21 in.
- Speed Settings: 5
- Motor Type: Brushless
The Makita GSB01 belt sander features a brushless motor and a variable speed dial with speeds ranging from 390 FPM up to 1,540 FPM. That’s a 20% increase from their 8.8-amp corded belt sander (9903), which tops out at 1,440 FPM. This sander is also fitted for 3 x 21-inch belts, which is a fairly common size for this type of sander.
While the sander’s quick material removal is excellent, we were also impressed by the dust collection. Even without a dust extractor, the GSB01 was able to collect the majority of the dust in the included bag and left very little remaining on the work surface. That’s a major benefit for folks working indoors or who simply don’t want to lug around a dust extractor.
Makita also offers a few accessories that make this belt sander even more useful. First, if you want to convert this sander into a benchtop belt sander, Makita offers a set of clamps (192694-6) that engage with the tool body so you can secure it to your work surface.
Along with the clamps, they also have a 90° guide rule (1915E3-1) to keep your material from slipping off the edge of the belt while you’re working.
Makita 40V XGT Belt Sander Design Notes
- Model: Makita GSB01
- Power Source: Makita 40V battery
- Weight: 8.4 lbs (bare tool), 10.7 lbs (with recommended 4.0Ah battery)
- Length: 14 in.
Size and Weight
As Makita’s first XGT belt sander, they didn’t stray too far from the pack as far as design goes. The GSB01 weighs 8.4 pounds as a bare tool and 10.7 pounds with the recommended 4.0Ah battery. Additionally, it measures 14 inches from tip to tail, which is comparable to Makita’s corded models.
Just like circular saws, weight isn’t the biggest concern for belt sanders, but it can be if you’re working with installed materials. This new model is roughly one pound heavier than the corded Makita 9903, so if weight is already a pain point for you, it’s something to consider.
Grip and Trigger
Makita typically does a good job with their grip shape and size, and this is no different. The grip is draped with a textured rubber overmold, and the front handle is adjustable to fit your needs. The front handle is composed of plastic and metal, but it feels very sturdy and doesn’t flex under load.
The trigger features a small finger safety to prevent accidental activation, and there’s a lock-on button to give your finger a break during extended use.
Tracking Adjustment
One of the most important things to check before using a belt sander is that your belt is properly aligned on the rollers and is tracking properly. A damaged belt may tend to drift to the left or right, so be sure to keep an eye on the status of the belt as well.
The Makita XGT belt sander features an auto-tracking belt system that helps keep the belt in line while you’re working without the need for manual adjustment. However, there’s also a manual adjustment dial so you can fine-tune the belt.
Adjusting the tracking is incredibly simple. All you need to do is turn the tracking dial left or right until the belt is running true. To make this process a little easier, I like to set the sander with the belt facing upward so I can monitor my adjustments in real-time.
Belt Changes
Just like the tracking adjustment, belt changes are very easy and tool-free! Simply flip the tensioner lever outward, slip off the old belt, and replace it with a fresh one. The whole process takes about 20 seconds if you’re taking your time.
Once you’ve replaced the belt, just be sure to double-check and adjust the tracking if necessary.
AWS Connectivity
Adding to the overall convenience, Makita equipped this sander with their Bluetooth Auto-Start Wireless System (AWS). This system automatically activates and deactivates a compatible dust extractor to help keep the mess to a minimum and save you a little time. Keep in mind the AWS transmitter (part no. 198901-5) is sold separately.
Additional Features
- Adjustable LED work light
- Compatible with all Makita 40V batteries
Makita 40V XGT Belt Sander Price
The Makita GSB01 retails for $319 as a bare tool and comes with a 3-year limited warranty. At the time of writing this article, there are no kit options available, so be sure to pick up a battery and charger if you don’t already have one.
The Bottom Line
The Makita 40V XGT Belt Sander offers plenty of power to tackle your toughest sanding projects. Its thoughtful design and confident performance make this a true corded replacement, and the compatible accessories add to the overall value. While we do wish it were available as a kit to add some value Makita’s GSB01 belt sander is a strong candidate for those of you looking to cut the cord.
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