Need help replacing my pneumatic DA, best for under $150?

[IntrstlarOvrdrve]

My little crafstman sander gave up the ghost last night after about 10 loyal years of use. I don't really use it for any finish work, 90% of what I do with it is strip automotive paint, so a 3/16 or 5/16 throw would be good. I'm currently working on a project that's running a little long in the tooth so I've got to be budget conscious (or I might be sleeping in the project out on the street somewhere). I've read enough about them to know that Dynabrade's spirit line and Huthins Profinisher line are the low end from those companies, but I'm currently considering a Huthins 600H or 700H. What are some other options in that price range? I want something that'll last me at least a few years of occasional hobbyist usage.

OR, should I buy a cheapie sander from HF or other and save up for a metal bodied Huthins or similar?

 

[dnschmidt]

The best are AirVantage. Best weight, best balance and last the longest. 3M's sanders are made by AirVantage.

 

[Davefr]

My DA is a Sioux and it's been flawless/indestructable.

My only beef is that it's an air hog at around 15 CFM.

I don't know if Sioux penumatics are still made in the USA (South Dakota) nor the current street price.

I've just been real happy with all my Sioux tools.

 

[Mastermind]

I have a collection of Sanders....only one I paid more than 100 for is my snap on finish sander. I think it was 225. Have an Ingersoll rand handled model I use for rough and stripping work. First one I ever had. Got it used, Probly 20 plus yrs old. Still works great. Only thing I've done is replace pads and the plastic top a few times from dropping it.

 

[Ron Swanson]

I few weeks ago I was at Sears and saw a Dewalt da finish sander for 49.00 on sale. It looked decent for the money. I dont own one so I cant say if its good or not but it might be worth checking out. I didnt even know dewalt made air tools.

 

[Mastermind]

It's this one here...

 

[IntrstlarOvrdrve]

I'll look into IR

How do the power end AirVantage sanders stack up to the hutchins?

 

[Cypherian]

I have one of these http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00LHN8V1E/?tag=atomicindus08-20 used them a lot in the military had not had one fail to my knowledge .

Cypher