Thread: Sandpaper recommendations

I'm sure I can find mentions in past threads, but its the new threads that keep us coming back to the site, so please excuse and indulge me.

Are there any recommendations for sandpaper for restorations? Best durability, best bang for the buck, least likely to clog, most consistent finish, etc.

What have you guys who have been restoring for a while settled on as your go to products and grit ranges and why?

Thanks.

I buy mine at ACE Hardware. Wet/dry 180, 400, 1000, 1500, 2000, 2500

I've been having good luck with Gator wet/dry at ACE as well. 3M wet / dry is another frequent mention. Progression of grits depends upon the job and look you're after.

Caswell. You can buy by the sheet or by the 100 count

Search results for: 'sandpaper' - Caswell Inc

One abrasive that I find useful is 3M Pro Grade Precision sanding sheets. I use the 320 grit. Although the sheets are more expensive per sheet than similar grit wet/dry abrasives, the abrasive lasts a long time, so they are economical. The sheets are mode of flexible plastic so they fold easily to polish both sides of the blade. When the sheets load up, simply wash them under running water.

I also find that they are less likely to make deep scratches than similar grit silicon carbide. The abrasive stays in place on the surface of the sheet.

The sheets are available at a variety of outlets, but I show the product at HD to help identify the product.

https://www.homedepot.com/p/3M-Pro-G...-UF4/207178753

I use a progression of 180, 220, 320, 400, 600, 1000, 1500, 2000. More grits doesn't use more paper, because you are spending less time on each grit.