Tackling DIY projects often involves sanding, a task I’ve always found tedious and time-consuming. The thought of hours spent manually smoothing surfaces was enough to put me off many projects. This is why I was eager to find a reliable power sander, one that wouldn’t break the bank. A powerful, efficient belt sander would have been a game-changer for my previous projects, saving me considerable time and effort.
Belt sanders are invaluable for tackling a wide range of woodworking and DIY tasks, from smoothing rough surfaces to stripping old paint. They offer speed and efficiency unmatched by manual methods. However, choosing the right one requires careful consideration. The ideal buyer is someone who frequently undertakes projects requiring extensive sanding, particularly on larger, flat surfaces. Those with only occasional light sanding needs might find a smaller, less powerful model, or even hand sanding, sufficient. Factors to consider include the motor’s power (measured in amps), the belt size (affecting the sanding area), the dust collection system’s effectiveness, and the weight and ergonomics of the tool itself. A too-heavy or awkwardly designed sander can quickly lead to fatigue and inefficiency. Read reviews carefully to gauge the user experience and identify potential drawbacks before making a purchase.
- Closer sand: angled belt design to sand closer to adjoining surfaces
- Fast material removal: max 800 fpm for fast material removal
- Easy belt changes: tool-free belt release for quick and easy belt changes
Introducing the CRAFTSMAN CMEW213: A Detailed Look
The CRAFTSMAN Electric 7 Amp Belt Sander, 3-in. x 21-in., Corded (CMEW213) is a corded belt sander boasting a powerful 7-amp motor for efficient sanding. It promises fast material removal and smooth finishes. The package includes the sander itself, a 3×21 inch 60-grit belt (additional belts are easily sourced online, like this one ), and a dust collection bag. Compared to some competitors, it offers a competitive price point for its power and features. However, it lacks a carrying case, which some users may find inconvenient. This sander is perfect for those tackling larger projects, but it might be overkill for small, delicate tasks.
- Pros: Powerful motor, easy belt changes, adjustable handle, relatively inexpensive.
- Cons: Ineffective dust collection, tends to dig in on flat surfaces, air from motor blows dust towards user.
- POWERFUL - With a 2.8 amp motor and 13,000 orbits per minute, it's able to deliver a smooth performance over a variety of sanding applications.
- POWERFUL - With a 1. 2 amp motor and 13,500 orbits per minute, it's able to deliver a smooth performance over a variety of sanding applications.
- 3.0 amp motor that spins the pad at 12,000 OPM
Exploring the CRAFTSMAN CMEW213’s Features and Their Benefits
Power and Performance
The 7-amp motor is the heart of this sander, providing ample power for tackling even the toughest sanding jobs. I’ve used it to sand down multiple layers of paint from old furniture and to smooth rough lumber for various projects. The speed and efficiency are impressive, saving me a significant amount of time compared to manual sanding. This power makes quick work of large surface areas, significantly reducing project completion time. The high speed, while effective, could be a slight disadvantage for delicate work requiring a gentler approach; however, for most DIY projects, the power is ideal. For more delicate tasks, one could consider adjusting their technique or using lower grit sandpaper. Overall, the power and speed provided make this a serious tool for DIY projects.
Belt Changing Mechanism
Changing sanding belts is often a cumbersome process with some sanders. Not so with the CRAFTSMAN CMEW213. The tool features a quick-release lever that simplifies the process immensely. I can swap belts in seconds, allowing me to switch between different grits effortlessly and efficiently. This feature is essential for optimal performance, as different grits are needed for various stages of sanding and different materials. A fast and easy belt change maximizes efficiency and keeps you working without unnecessary delays. This is a huge plus for productivity when completing several projects, making it worthwhile for large-scale sanding jobs.
Handle and Ergonomics
The adjustable handle is a welcome feature. It allows you to customize the grip position for optimal comfort and control, regardless of your sanding technique or the size of the work piece. I appreciate the ability to reposition the handle to suit different tasks and my own preference. This feature contributes significantly to reducing hand fatigue during extended use. The low center of gravity is particularly useful for sanding vertical surfaces or other awkward angles. While generally comfortable for right-handed users, the position of the dust bag and motor might make it less comfortable for left-handed individuals, which is an important factor to consider.
Dust Collection System
Sadly, this is where the CRAFTSMAN CMEW213 falls short. The dust collection bag is rather ineffective. While it collects some dust, a significant amount still escapes and ends up all over the work area and, unfortunately, even on me. The motor also blows a substantial amount of dust directly towards the user, which is annoying and potentially hazardous. While some dust is collected, significantly more dust is flung around the immediate work area, necessitating frequent cleaning and additional safety measures like wearing a dust mask. This is easily one of the biggest drawbacks of the sander.
Sanding Performance on Flat Surfaces
One consistent complaint among users, and one I also experienced, is the sander’s tendency to dig in at the front and back of the rollers when sanding flat surfaces. This makes achieving a perfectly even, level sand job challenging. It requires extra care and attention to avoid uneven sanding and potential damage to the workpiece. This is a noteworthy disadvantage for those who regularly work on flat surfaces such as tabletops or large pieces of furniture, and it significantly impacts the sander’s precision capabilities.
What Other Users Are Saying
Online reviews echo many of my own experiences. Users praise the sander’s power and ease of belt changes but frequently criticize the inadequate dust collection and its tendency to dig in when sanding flat surfaces. Some users also highlighted the motor’s tendency to overheat with prolonged use.
Final Verdict: Is the CRAFTSMAN CMEW213 Right for You?
The CRAFTSMAN CMEW213 solves the problem of time-consuming manual sanding with its powerful motor and quick belt changes. It excels at tackling large sanding projects, significantly speeding up the process. However, the ineffective dust collection and tendency to dig into flat surfaces are notable drawbacks. Despite these issues, the sander’s power and efficiency make it a worthy option for many DIY enthusiasts, particularly those who prioritize speed and power over absolute precision on perfectly flat surfaces. To learn more and purchase, click here to check it out .
Last update on 2025-09-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API