Need sander reccomendations for refinishing my deck - which one won't break the bank?

Alright guys, I'm about to tackle my 12x16 deck that's got years of weathered stain on it. I've got a budget of around $150. I've been looking at the DeWalt DWE6423 random orbital sander. Anyone have experience with it? I know some people swear by Bosch or Makita but I've always been a yellow tool guy. Is it worth the extra cash over a cheaper brand? Also, what grit should I start with? I'm thinking 60 to strip then 120 then 220? Any advice appreciated!

Hey Pete, I'm actually an apprentice at a cabinet shop and we use sanders all day. The DeWalt you mentioned is decent but for deck work you might wanna consider a belt sander for the rough stuff. Random orbitals are great for finish but they can be slow for heavy removal. That said, if you're set on an ROS, the DeWalt is fine. Just make sure you get a good vacuum attachment or you'll be covered in dust. For grits, 60 is aggressive but okay for deck boards. Don't skip 80 if the wood is really rough. Also, don't go past 120 for deck stain - 220 is too smooth and the stain won't penetrate. Just my 2 cents.

I'm also an apprentice, mostly doing trim work. I've used the Bosch ROS20VSC and it's awesome - super low vibration. But it's a bit more than your budget. If you're brand loyal to DeWalt, go for it. But have you thought about renting a floor sander for the deck? That might be faster and cheaper if you only need it once. For the hand sander, I'd say get a 5-inch ROS with variable speed. The DeWalt has that. Also, buy good sandpaper - Diablo or 3M. Cheap paper cloggs up fast.

Pete, I've refinished more decks than I care to count. Here's my take: skip the belt sander unless you're really confident - they can gouge the wood in a heartbeat. A random orbital is safer and more forgiving. The DeWalt DWE6423 is a solid choice for the price. I've had mine for 3 years and it's still going strong. But do yourself a favor and get the DWE6423K kit - it comes with a hard case and a dust bag, and sometimes a couple of sanding discs. For grits: start with 60 only if the old stain is really flaking. Otherwise 80 is enough. Then 120. Then stop. 220 is overkill for deck boards and will close the grain. Also, consider a chemical stripper first to save time and sandpaper. And don't forget to countersink any nails/screws before sanding! Good luck!

Thanks everyone! I think I'll go with the DeWalt kit and get some Diablo paper. I'll start with 60 on the worst spots and 80 everywhere else, then 120. I'll skip 220. And yeah, I'll check for nails first. Appreciate the help!