Milwaukee M18 Fuel Cordless Belt Sander Targets Fast Material Removal
Many cordless tools on the market today are able to replace their corded counterparts. Since cordless tools are more convenient than dealing with power cords at every jobsite, it makes sense that Pros want the corded level of performance they’re used to in a cordless body. Milwaukee’s M18 Fuel Belt Sander is the company’s solution to replace corded belt sanders. Check out the details and see if it has what you need to cut the cord.
Milwaukee M18 Fuel Cordless Belt Sander Performance
Milwaukee designed this belt sander with professionals in mind. While some cordless options opt for a brushed motor, Milwaukee turns to its brushless PowerState motor for better performance and runtime. Whether you’re a carpenter, remodeler, or even a serious DIYer, this cordless belt sander is ready to replace your old-school 8-amp corded belt sander.
It features a variable speed dial with five different belt speed settings. Speeds range from 700 to 1,350 surface feet per minute depending on the amount of material you want to remove. It also has a lock-on button to reduce finger fatigue during extended use.
Milwaukee didn’t estimate an exact runtime for us. However, having a few extra batteries on hand should give you more than enough trigger time to power through most jobs.
First Impressions
We got some hands-on time with this tool and immediately went to work on some 3/4-inch plywood sub-flooring. Half-expecting it to drop somewhat in speed as I bore down, my eyes widened as I pushed harder and harder. This tool, very much like the Milwaukee M18 FUEL braking grinder, doesn’t bog down when you run it hard.
I took off about a 1/4 inch of material across the work surface in just a few seconds using a 60-grit belt. This sander is a beast! All in all, this tool is an excellent solution for short-term work where you want to cut the cord.
Milwaukee Cordless Belt Sander Design
Ergonomics
Overall, I really like the look and feel of this belt sander. The main handle is a little larger than average cordless tools and features a textured rubber overmold that helps you maintain a secure hold while working.
One cool feature is an adjustable pommel on the front. It doesn’t require any tools to move as you shift it forward or back to get the best feel for the job at hand.
Dust Collection
The Milwaukee 2832 includes a dust collection system, too. On top of the integrated universal vacuum hose adapter, the tool comes with a multi-layer dist collection bag. This dust collection method helps you maintain a tidy work area, collecting more than 80% of dust during use.
Belt Changes and Tracking
The tool-free belt tracking knob and tool-free belt changes are extremely convenient and work really well on this sander. This sander’s automatic belt tracking technology keeps the sanding belt centered on the drive rollers but there is also a manual adjustment knob for quick adjustments on the fly.
Belt changes are easy and stress-free too! Simply pull the tension lever away from the tool to release the pressure off of the drive wheels and slip off the belt. Keep in mind that this sander is only compatible with 3×18-inch sanding belts.
Additional Features
- Dual LED light
- Compact design for working in tight spaces
Milwaukee M18 Fuel Cordless Belt Sander Price
The Milwaukee 2832-20 retails for $279 as a bare tool and $439 as a kit. In the box, you get one 80-grit sanding belt, a dust collection bag, and a universal vacuum adapter. Milwaukee backs your purchase with a 5-year limited warranty.
The Bottom Line
The Milwaukee M18 Fuel Cordless Belt Sander offers plenty of power for tough sanding jobs. However, the biggest obstacle you’ll likely face is runtime during more extensive jobs. There is a premium to pay for this kind of cordless convenience but Pros know that the right tools can make all the difference on the jobsite.
Specifications
- Model: Milwaukee 2832-20
- Power Source: Milwaukee 18V battery
- Length: 10.6 in
- Width: 6.3 in
- Height: 7.5 in
- Weight: 7.8 lbs. (bare), 9.4 lbs. (with 5.0Ah battery)
- Belt size: 3 in x 18 in
- Minimum Speed: 700 SFM
- Max speed: 1350 SFM
- Warranty: 5-year (tool), 3-year (battery)
- Price: $279 (bare tool), $439 (kit)
