Skil 12V Compact Detail Sander Puts Everything In A Nice, Compact Package
At first glance, the Skil 12V cordless sander has the appearance of a typical delta pad model. Its official name is the Skil PWRCore 12V Brushless Compact Detail Sander and we set out to learn what’s different about it compared to the other models we use.
Skil 12V Brushless Compact Detail Sander Performance
As you can tell from the name, Skil wrapped this sander around a brushless motor powered by a PWRCore 12 battery. It’s a single-speed model that produces up to 12,000 OPM with a 1.6mm orbit diameter. That’s the same rate as Skil’s corded compact detail sander and higher than its big brother on the PWRCore 20 system.
Skil did a great job of mitigating felt vibration on this compact sander, even compared to more Pro-grade models. While the 12V power source won’t big you the same runtime as higher-voltage systems, the lower vibration makes a difference when you have a lot of material removal on your plate.
Swapping out the 5 1/4-inch x 3 3/4-inch pads is incredibly easy on this detail sander, especially compared to the clamps you’ll find on a traditional 1/4-sheet sander. Skil utilizes a hook-and-loop style backing pad that adheres to the sandpaper. This makes for quick and easy sandpaper changes. Just line up the holes in the paper with the holes on the pad and go.
Unlike the Skil 20V Multi-Sander, this model does not have interchangeable attachments for different sanding applications. With that said, the pointed delta pad design is great for accessing tight corners where traditional 1/4-sheet sanders may struggle.
Pro Tip: Not sure what grit sandpaper to use? Here’s a quick guide!
Sandpaper Grit Best Application Course P80 Rough wood or metal sanding, and rust or old finish removal Medium P120 General wood or metal sanding. Fine P180 Final finishing of wood, metal, plaster, and other surfaces. Extra Fine P240 Final sanding of bare wood, smoothing old paint, or preparing a finished
surface for recoating.
Skil 12V Brushless Compact Detail Sander Design Notes
Ergonomics
This compact detail sander measures 5.4 inches from tip to tail and stands only 4.5 inches tall. It weighs 1.5 pounds as a bare tool and 2.1 pounds with the kitted 12V 2.0Ah battery. That’s a working weight 1/2 a pound lower than Skil’s 20V delta pad sander.
The shape is very friendly to a variety of grip locations. Holding it from the front or top is very natural, and even wrapping your hand around the battery to reach into a tight corner is reasonable.
Dust Collection
Many sanders of the same delta pad design are compact… until you add the dust collection bag or attach a hose. Skil changes the expectation with a compact, transparent microfilter dust box on the front of the tool body. It makes for a more maneuverable sander, plus, it doesn’t interfere with the battery. However, you don’t have the option to add a vacuum hose.
To install the microfilter dust box, align the slot on the dust box with the rib on the tool, and
then push the dust box onto the tool until it locks into place. To remove it, grip the finger grooves on the side of the box and firmly pull it straight away from the tool.
Emptying the dust is pretty easy. Just remove the collection box and hold it so the inlets are facing down then gently knock the dust out. Additionally, you can remove the bottom cover of the box to clean it more thoroughly when the job is done.
Pro Tip: Do not wash the micro filter with soap and water. The dust gets lodged in the filter’s pores and ultimately reduces dust collection efficiency. If you do need to clean the filter, we recommend using compressed air in a well ventilated area to remove the excess dust.
Battery Placement
Skil chose to place the battery on the back of the tool and that’s pretty standard for cordless sanders. It slides in from the top and balances well. At the moment, this kit is only configured with a 2.0Ah battery but if you wanted to step up to a 4.0Ah battery, there is plenty of room.
Additional Features
- Enclosed power switch
- Compatible with all PWRCore 12 batteries
- PWRAssist battery has a USB port for charging your phone or other devices
Skil 12V Brushless Compact Detail Sander Price
The Skil compact detail sander kit retails for $99.00 which includes a single 2.0Ah battery, an upgraded PWRJump charger, and 40 hook and loop sandpapers to get you started (10 each 80, 120, 180, and 240-grit). Skil backs this sander with a 5-year tool warranty and a 2-year battery warranty.
Editor’s Note: Be sure to check Lowe’s—we spotted the kit for under $80!
The Bottom Line
If you’re on Skil’s PWRCore 12 battery system and enjoy woodworking projects, you have to add this sander to your list. It’s easy and even fun to use with a design that makes sanding applications more convenient. Thanks to its compact design, you’ll be able to sand in and around objects your other sanders might not fit.
Skil 12V Brushless Compact Detail Sander Specifications
- Model: Skil SR6608A-10
- Power Source: Skil 12V battery
- No-Load Speed: 12000 OPM
- Switch Type: Rocker
- Pad Type: Hook and loop
- Dust Collection: Microfilter box
- Pad Size: 5-1/4 in. x 3-3/4 in.
- Orbit Diameter: 1.6 mm
- Weight: 1.5 lbs. (bare), 2.1 lbs (with 2.0Ah battery)
- Warranty: 5-year (tool), 2-year (battery)
- Price: $99 (kit)
