In 20 years of fabrication I can count on one hand how many times I've had to remove the guard to get better access to something, but i agree it does happen. Removing the guard makes the angle grinder go from something mildly dangerous to something highly likely to remove your fingers, I really don't get why lots of people remove it.
Agreed al 3 of mine stil has there guards on it protects my clothes allot and safes me from having to have to keep my head clear of possible projectile fire area😂
People must stop seeing a baby grinder as a tool it's a consumable at best I like keeping a spare one because they will let you down when you least expect it 😂
I had a bad batch of Norton cutting wheels at one point in time. I use to run my grinders without the guards…..until those bad cutting wheels. One after the other, they would explode just as soon as I powered up the grinder. Since then, my guards stay on until I absolutely have to take them off .
I would recommend to leave the guard on for your thin disk, even if you have to move it for every cut. The extra time spent has saved me from injury once so far. I have a dedicated grinder for cutoff wheels with the guard attached. The other grinders are guard free.
The angle grinder switch reminded me of this. When my grandpa passed away I got a bunch of his old tools, and among them was a corded circular saw that had blade guard that would get stuck open as well as a trigger switch that would get stuck on. So any time you used it there was a 50/50 change you might get stuck with a screaming death machine and you'd just have to sit there shouting from the garage hoping someone would hear you over the sound of the saw and come unplug it for you.
The handle is VERY helpful when you put a rotating chain saw wheel on your angle grinder. That style wheel can catch and come right at you...and does often in the world. Stumpy Nubs..no pun...a giant RUclipsr almost severed his fingers with the chain wheel...and he is a tool expert. That's a video worth watching when he describes the accident, the surgeries...and the almost losing all his fingers on that hand.
Good video, as always. I like the course 3M Cubitron disks for removing a lot of material really fast. I agree that getting the right disks for whatever you’re doing is probably the most important part. Also, I would emphasize even more, though of course you said it: Never EVER EVER cut or grind without eye protection. It WILL mess up your eyes. I’ve had a few grinders so far, but I would say “I bleed red” as well. 😁😉
I replaced the bearing in my milwaukee grinder and if I can take anything away from that is that the gears in your grinder are most likely starved of grease. I recommend taking them appart and checking if you intend on keeping them for a long time.
I really love the Metabo grinders after trying a lot of them. Just seem to be built a notch above the rest. Smooth and reliable. Also - variable speed has become almost a must have feature for me.
The grinders are a hot topic for debate in my line of work. Techs like the bare version, but the Safety dept has made rules, Guards, handles, flap switch are all required for use. Locking slide switch is a no go.
Tay and the gang I am a huge fan of the patal shift and corded grinders. Very nice video explaining and giving out of information on this topic. Thanks so much. Can't wait to see more updates an projects and many more videos soon my friends. Keep up the great craftsmanship and hard work my friend. Forge On. Fab On. Weld On. Keep Making. God bless.
Warrior grinder, open it up and add some grease before first use. For garage users, get more than 1 angle grinder, perhaps 1 for flap disc and another for cutoff. Less time changing discs and the tools last longer. I was burning up bauer grinders until I bought a second, and now they last.
Right on man. I have a Dewalt 402 which I bought over 25 years ago, as you said it was one of my first tools at a fabrication shop I worked at while going to college. Hardly a day went by that I didn’t use that grinder, a set of brushes and a few cords but it still works like a champ. Only reason I replaced it as a daily carry is because MSHA doesn’t allow any power tools with cruise control. I know that little button is easy to remove but it was my justification to buy it’s bigger brother, a 5-1/2” with a rat tail handle which I found in a pipeline supply store in Pecos. I carry that and a Rigid 4-1/2” cordless on the service truck. For safety I found a Matco cutoff wheel that is steel with diamond cutters, last a long time and won’t explode on you. I’ll check into the CHW line though for home fabrication projects- a thin saw curf is definitely nice.
This video was great, could you also make a video that recommends other ways of making things less safe? Maybe how to cut the seatbelts out of your car, or the best way to wear baggy clothing near industrial machinery with spinning parts?
I'd disagree that the angle grinder is the most dangerous tool of all. Prehaps in a metalworking setting, but the most dangerous of all is a jointer, as it's blade motion sucks your hand in if it the blade contacts flesh.
Loved this video. Super informative going in to what biases your buying decisions and the proper way to mount different wheels. Thank you Tay and crew! 🙂 5⭐
I really like these guys, at 76 yo I generally always have ear plugs in and unplug my skill saws and angle grinders when changing blades and disks. The paddle switchs safety not so much but the toggle switch and skill saws without a safety I unplug.
I only remove the guard when using a cone wire brush & prefer a paddle switch on 4 1/2" grinders. That safety on paddle switches is a PITA but can be removed & I have, just remember to pay attention how you lay it down or be prepared to chase it!
Tay, would you say your preferred brand of wheel “really smooths out the humps” of your projects? 😂😂. Good breakdown. Eye protection and maybe gloves are a must and a delete of any stupid you may be possessing when using your grinder are recommended imo.
I am less afraid of my Stihl 460 with the 36" bar than of my angle grinder. These things are so easy to mess up that they become dangerous very fast. One really has to show the stupid stuff you can do with it, the correct way to use it is obvious. Great video!
I am less afraid of my Smith and Wesson 460 with an 8-3/8" barrel than my angle grinder. The guard has never been a major problem in 23 years of use on an angle grinder and there is no way I would use a cut off wheel without one. For flap wheels, the guard allows me to direct the sparks where I want instead of all over. While I don't run that large of a chainsaw, I do use an angle grinder far more and it is something not to get complaisant with. I have seen and heard of enough injuries to others to be very careful and I did actually have a wire cup brush get tangled up in my welding jacket just a few years into using an angle grinder, so it scared me damn good and really wrenched my back.
I have equiped my shop with several “cheap” angle grinders each has a permanent type of disk… one with a cut off, one with a grinding disk, one with a course flapper wheel and one with nice fine / finishing flapper, also a wire wheel / cup one!! Nothing beats the “handyness” of a cordless one.. I’m generally doing light smaller thickness stuff so have 100mm and 125mm ones… but have a big beefy one for that odd “big job”.. Do not fall into the trap of buying an ex US grinder secondhand if you live and work in the metric weld… the thread on the arbour is 5/8” not 14mm and you will have a problem getting threaded disks / wire wheels to fit !… ask me how I know
Years ago I bought one of the $9.99 versions of these. Just pretty much touching it to metal caused it to slow down excessively. It was easy to get the motor to smoke with little cutting pressure. Took it back. Did not expect much for the price. The $39 blue ones are much better.
If you are gonna do a Harbor Freight ginder step up to the Bauer. I bought the same Warrior grinder and it lasted literally 3 uses before the gearbox blew up. I then tried the Bauer and it has been awesome for a cheap grinder.
Tech Tip for HF angle grinders: Before use, open the gearbox and pack with grease. (The Brylcreme little dab they put in isn't enough!) It will run far cooler and last longer if you do. You're welcome.
I've been welding since the early 70's an never used a grinder with a guard you can't see what you're doing,never found a use for a handle on a small grinder eather. I thought this was a another fine video guy's!!
Here in Australia, you are Not Allowed to remove safety Guards, It is an offence that the Government Safety Group known as WORKCOVER will sue you for removing it, especially if someone gets Hurt using it that way. Me personally, I like the side Handle, it gives me Better control of the grinder.
Hi Tay, I'm a Fabricator, I use an Angle grinder a LOT. Here in Australia, If you remove a Guard off Any Tool you can get in HUGE Trouble from firstly your Boss, then a Government body known as WORKCOVER, they will sue you for removing said Guards, you need to just turn it to a position that doesn't get in your way too much. Yes I REALLY Prefer the Paddle Switch, the Bosch style small push switches on the side of the body are a Bloody Pain to use. We use 1mm Slitting discs, 2mm slitting discs that I use to get into corners to grind out "square" and Hard "rock" discs for normal grinding, some are Ceramic discs that work pretty well, and of course Flap discs for steel and Zirconium based flap discs for Aluminium. The biggest grinder I use is a 9", It is a Beast, but it can really cut hard with it, or give you more "reach" into corners.
my favourite angle grinder is one my dad gave me its an original industrial black and decker from 1984 and is still working perfectly after a recent service i expect it to last to give to my lad when hes 18
I usually cut off the flange but leave the body of the guard, keeps me from breaking wheels in careless ways while still giving me a reasonable amount of flexibility for grinding. My grinder for cutting wheels always has a guard, it's saved me from some very bad experiences. I've personally cut myself pretty badly with a cutting wheel and I've seen a girl get her hair too close to a flapwheel... The hospital shaved the rest of her head treating the scalping that ensued and last I saw her she hadn't let it grow out yet years later. As for the tool, I rarely use it putting the wheels on but always end up using it to take them off again.
I have 3. Thin cut off wheel, flap disk, solid grinder disk. Of course, I need to change something out if I want to use my wire cup. Maybe I will buy a 4th based on your purchase tips... switch, cable, weight. Thanks for the workshop chat. Edit to add... All mine have the guard still on. So how easy it is to adjust the guard is another purchase consideration. I am a meteorologist by profession. Just saying.
I find people remove guards because they either can’t see or they’re hoping to fit the grinder somewhere tight. I cut my guards so they are only covering the wheel for about 110deg of the wheel. So flush with the bottom of the tool to the point it’s flush with the front of the head. (If that makes sense……). Since keeping the guards on and cutting them down I haven’t found a need to remove them even when trying to get them in horrible places on cars. Plus you can steady the tool when starting a cut because you can span your hand between the guard and the work.
I've got 4-5 of those $15 grinders. I've had a few for over 10 years - used every week for a few hours. They have lasted longer than brand names for 5 times the price. I buy grinders for each thing I want to do... coarse flap, fine flap, grind, cut, etc. Think I'm up to about 10. He's right about the switch. That is the most important thing. And the little tool wrench, stick it in the drawer. You'll never use it. (not all brands are the same size)
I bought that same angle grinder several years ago. I bought it because Jody from Welding Tips and Tricks got an adapter for Rolex disks. I use it with 2” Rolex. And ONLY with 2” Rolex disks. For that, it’s perfect. It’s small and light and more than powerful enough for that purpose. The switch is crap, but works. I got it on sale for $9.95. Crazy! The rest of my grinders are all DeWalt paddle switch models for various power, though most are 4.5” 11 amp. One is battery. I NEVER use click on buttons. That’s really dangerous. If you drop them they will stay on and who knows what it will cut, very possibly you.
Thanks. I enjoyed the heck out of that video. It is much appreciated. I don't have occasion to use these much because I'm a home gamer. But they are sure handy sometimes. Occasionally they are just the right tool for the job and simple good sense is all you need to use them safely. Thanks again....
One of my biggest beefs with those who use angle grinders improperly is when they put them down on a table or bench disc down. They're meant to be put down on the back side with the blade sitting up!
I would not dare to remove my guard. would probably make it a tad easier to see but I rather not take the chance, especially at home when no one is around.
My scariest angle grinder is the 45 year old 9" Milwaukee. Will wrap you up and spit you out in pieces at the slightest mistake. Takes about 30 seconds to stop. Tries to torque out of your death grip like a cat being put into a bath on startup. But it will quickly bevel a plate in a 4th of July like shower of sparks.
For my 5c - Cutting/grinding with a disc? Keep the guard, it'll save you from shrapnel. Wire brush / sanding? Ditch the guard it's just a pain in the ass. A disc might only break once in a lifetime... but that's all it takes. Once. You suffer life changing injuries because it was a hassle? Nah. (I do like the quick-adjust lever though - very good idea)
Second most dangerous tool is the grinder. ER is full of people who took the guard off. 1st most dangerous is table saw. Love the show a bunch, but they need to treated with a lot of respect. Experienced guy just the other day, had one bind and jump up at him into his shirt and tore up his chest down to the bone, missing his chest muscle. And was one of those dead man switches, so it kept going as it twisted up his shirt pulling it further into his chest. For me, the paddle switch is a requirement. Toss out all others. And keep the gaurd on. Would also only use it for cutting as a last resort. Installing the handle and using the tool with firm grip on both the handle and tool is also requirement, as that is only way to keep it from kicking back into your shirt. It happens so fast, you can not react to it and the handle really helps prevent serous potential issues. Not safety weenie here, but this tool requires more respect than most. Cheers
Thats funny cuz the first tool I bought was a milwaukee grinder. when I got home to cut the muffles out my brothers ford focus I realized it came without the battery 😂 and I proceeded to not buy a battery for the next year and a half and never used it until I got more money
@Tay What's the deal with the QSC speakers in the shop?! I weld on the side and also play with a band ...it's not something you typically see in a shop such as yours. Please do a video if y'all are into bands/music. I'd love to get nerdy with welders and music sometime! -Steve in Columbia, SC
Currently have a Harbor Freight Tig, Everlast 140 Mig.....and a Miller 252. For a home gamer ...I think I'm hanging there. I've also got a 1956 Clausing 3-phase 20" drill press I run off a VFD....in my garage (neighborhood). She's a purdy lady. Let's chat soon!
Dewalt DW02 still exists, but it's design and such has changed. Type it in google and you can see for yourself. Doesn't look like the one you have anymore. The one you have might have been made in USA - new ones, obviously are not!
The cover never gets in the way 😁 and the 5 lbs grinde must hawe handle all the time 🙃(I've never used lighter ones because they're too weak for anything 😋). Minimum 8A (900W) for cutting with a 1mm thick disc and 14A (1400W) for grinding. For hevy sanding, the paper on the rubber disc 36 gr. goes like butter 😊. I haven't seen a grinder in Europe that, when plugged in, can turn itself on even when the switch is on 🤔. Speed regulation is very useful. And it's not worth spending money on grinders below PLN 300 (USD 80) .
How do I get the flapper sander disk back to the original abrasive quality? Mine looses half its abrasiveness and the flappers doesn't ware down to the fresh abrasive area like I think it should.
You aren't using enough pressure and likely are using the incorrect grit. With a coarse wheel, trying to get a smooth finish, you won't apply enough pressure to abrade the flaps.
I use a DeWalt cord grinder and they have a off on switch on the side it's ok but my Hilti 22v battery has a off on switch too but if you remove your hand it will shut off like a dead man
I see that you're a discerning to buyer. You like high technology in a corded tools? I have a friend who sells corded tools with battery charge, discharge, short circuit protection, and over temperature protection like those fancy battery tools without the expensive inconvenient batteries. Just amazing!! So I turning you on, my friend.
as a poor person with years of experience using the cheap HF drill master/warrior grinders i can attest that if you try to use them like you would a name brand grinder you will smoke them in no time but if you back off and slow down your cutting so they don't everheat they will last for a while which i'm sure sounds like total waste of time to someone who is used to more expensive tools but for us poor people, when the only choices are take a little longer with a cheap grinder or take a whole lot longer with a hacksaw slowing down is actually speeding up for us.........
You can hurt yourself and others badly with an angle grinder. I haven't found a scenario where I /had/ to remove the guard. A lot of places where it could have been easier without, but never needed. Also I double up safety glasses and mask cause bro I've seen exploding disks and DO NOT WANT
In denmark its illegal to remove handle and the guard. You can get big fines from til work enviroment departementet. 🙈💸 But in denmark its normal to have the handle and guard. I have never heard people getting upset by the guard. The law is as old as the angle grinder so its just a Thing you get use to.
Great video- I don't like the guard either, but it does keep the sparks away from me. The little trick about spinning the nut on is extremely cool- not recommended, I get it, but cool nonetheless.
The reason why you like the paddle switch is because of your huge hands and fingers. Small hand workers like trigger switches ... I've heard from my small hand friends...
If guards/handles were critical components they wouldn’t be removable. That and the fact that they can be moved around/position changed is an admission of they’re poor and invasive design
Oh Tay how we all laugh at you Americans over there with your 110v. I mean you can’t get killed properly with that. In Ireland every house runs 220-240v and industry uses 400v 3 phase. Now 400 volts is a manly way to fry! In fairness to ye, that was a good video for newbies. Looking forward to the lathe safety video. 💀
Number one rule with grinders...UNPLUG when changing grinding wheels. ALWAYS!!! Number two rule with grinders...Always wear eye and hand protection. ALWAYS! Fairly certain that was Tay's real message.
when i did my training as a fabrication engineer we had to watch a safety video ( actual security footage of a 9 inch grinder killing someone wearing a hoodie )every person that has seen that video never wears a hoodie grinding or using any other cordless power tool
In 20 years of fabrication I can count on one hand how many times I've had to remove the guard to get better access to something, but i agree it does happen. Removing the guard makes the angle grinder go from something mildly dangerous to something highly likely to remove your fingers, I really don't get why lots of people remove it.
Right. People remove the guard then the tool sometimes teaches them a lesson.
Agreed al 3 of mine stil has there guards on it protects my clothes allot and safes me from having to have to keep my head clear of possible projectile fire area😂
People must stop seeing a baby grinder as a tool it's a consumable at best I like keeping a spare one because they will let you down when you least expect it 😂
I had a bad batch of Norton cutting wheels at one point in time. I use to run my grinders without the guards…..until those bad cutting wheels. One after the other, they would explode just as soon as I powered up the grinder. Since then, my guards stay on until I absolutely have to take them off .
I have two of them. The switch sucks! They are good for light sanding and wires brush work. Don’t think that they will last long, but they are cheap 😂
I would recommend to leave the guard on for your thin disk, even if you have to move it for every cut. The extra time spent has saved me from injury once so far. I have a dedicated grinder for cutoff wheels with the guard attached. The other grinders are guard free.
The angle grinder switch reminded me of this. When my grandpa passed away I got a bunch of his old tools, and among them was a corded circular saw that had blade guard that would get stuck open as well as a trigger switch that would get stuck on. So any time you used it there was a 50/50 change you might get stuck with a screaming death machine and you'd just have to sit there shouting from the garage hoping someone would hear you over the sound of the saw and come unplug it for you.
The handle is VERY helpful when you put a rotating chain saw wheel on your angle grinder. That style wheel can catch and come right at you...and does often in the world. Stumpy Nubs..no pun...a giant RUclipsr almost severed his fingers with the chain wheel...and he is a tool expert. That's a video worth watching when he describes the accident, the surgeries...and the almost losing all his fingers on that hand.
Good video, as always. I like the course 3M Cubitron disks for removing a lot of material really fast. I agree that getting the right disks for whatever you’re doing is probably the most important part. Also, I would emphasize even more, though of course you said it: Never EVER EVER cut or grind without eye protection. It WILL mess up your eyes.
I’ve had a few grinders so far, but I would say “I bleed red” as well. 😁😉
I replaced the bearing in my milwaukee grinder and if I can take anything away from that is that the gears in your grinder are most likely starved of grease. I recommend taking them appart and checking if you intend on keeping them for a long time.
I really love the Metabo grinders after trying a lot of them. Just seem to be built a notch above the rest. Smooth and reliable.
Also - variable speed has become almost a must have feature for me.
Torque Test Channel tested both HP/Watts and vibration for angle grinders
I added a variable speed Metabo to my fleet last year and it fast became a favourite.
The grinders are a hot topic for debate in my line of work. Techs like the bare version, but the Safety dept has made rules, Guards, handles, flap switch are all required for use. Locking slide switch is a no go.
Thanks for the tutorial!
Tay and the gang I am a huge fan of the patal shift and corded grinders. Very nice video explaining and giving out of information on this topic. Thanks so much. Can't wait to see more updates an projects and many more videos soon my friends. Keep up the great craftsmanship and hard work my friend. Forge On. Fab On. Weld On. Keep Making. God bless.
Warrior grinder, open it up and add some grease before first use. For garage users, get more than 1 angle grinder, perhaps 1 for flap disc and another for cutoff. Less time changing discs and the tools last longer. I was burning up bauer grinders until I bought a second, and now they last.
Right on man. I have a Dewalt 402 which I bought over 25 years ago, as you said it was one of my first tools at a fabrication shop I worked at while going to college. Hardly a day went by that I didn’t use that grinder, a set of brushes and a few cords but it still works like a champ. Only reason I replaced it as a daily carry is because MSHA doesn’t allow any power tools with cruise control. I know that little button is easy to remove but it was my justification to buy it’s bigger brother, a 5-1/2” with a rat tail handle which I found in a pipeline supply store in Pecos. I carry that and a Rigid 4-1/2” cordless on the service truck. For safety I found a Matco cutoff wheel that is steel with diamond cutters, last a long time and won’t explode on you. I’ll check into the CHW line though for home fabrication projects- a thin saw curf is definitely nice.
This video was great, could you also make a video that recommends other ways of making things less safe? Maybe how to cut the seatbelts out of your car, or the best way to wear baggy clothing near industrial machinery with spinning parts?
I'd disagree that the angle grinder is the most dangerous tool of all. Prehaps in a metalworking setting, but the most dangerous of all is a jointer, as it's blade motion sucks your hand in if it the blade contacts flesh.
Loved this video. Super informative going in to what biases your buying decisions and the proper way to mount different wheels. Thank you Tay and crew! 🙂 5⭐
I really like these guys, at 76 yo I generally always have ear plugs in and unplug my skill saws and angle grinders when changing blades and disks. The paddle switchs safety not so much but the toggle switch and skill saws without a safety I unplug.
I only remove the guard when using a cone wire brush & prefer a paddle switch on 4 1/2" grinders.
That safety on paddle switches is a PITA but can be removed & I have, just remember to pay attention how you lay it down or be prepared to chase it!
Tay, would you say your preferred brand of wheel “really smooths out the humps” of your projects? 😂😂. Good breakdown. Eye protection and maybe gloves are a must and a delete of any stupid you may be possessing when using your grinder are recommended imo.
I am less afraid of my Stihl 460 with the 36" bar than of my angle grinder. These things are so easy to mess up that they become dangerous very fast. One really has to show the stupid stuff you can do with it, the correct way to use it is obvious. Great video!
I am less afraid of my Smith and Wesson 460 with an 8-3/8" barrel than my angle grinder. The guard has never been a major problem in 23 years of use on an angle grinder and there is no way I would use a cut off wheel without one. For flap wheels, the guard allows me to direct the sparks where I want instead of all over. While I don't run that large of a chainsaw, I do use an angle grinder far more and it is something not to get complaisant with. I have seen and heard of enough injuries to others to be very careful and I did actually have a wire cup brush get tangled up in my welding jacket just a few years into using an angle grinder, so it scared me damn good and really wrenched my back.
I have equiped my shop with several “cheap” angle grinders each has a permanent type of disk… one with a cut off, one with a grinding disk, one with a course flapper wheel and one with nice fine / finishing flapper, also a wire wheel / cup one!!
Nothing beats the “handyness” of a cordless one..
I’m generally doing light smaller thickness stuff so have 100mm and 125mm ones… but have a big beefy one for that odd “big job”..
Do not fall into the trap of buying an ex US grinder secondhand if you live and work in the metric weld… the thread on the arbour is 5/8” not 14mm and you will have a problem getting threaded disks / wire wheels to fit !… ask me how I know
Years ago I bought one of the $9.99 versions of these. Just pretty much touching it to metal caused it to slow down excessively. It was easy to get the motor to smoke with little cutting pressure. Took it back. Did not expect much for the price. The $39 blue ones are much better.
If you are gonna do a Harbor Freight ginder step up to the Bauer. I bought the same Warrior grinder and it lasted literally 3 uses before the gearbox blew up. I then tried the Bauer and it has been awesome for a cheap grinder.
Tech Tip for HF angle grinders:
Before use, open the gearbox and pack with grease. (The Brylcreme little dab they put in isn't enough!) It will run far cooler and last longer if you do.
You're welcome.
I've been welding since the early 70's an never used a grinder with a guard you can't see what you're doing,never found a use for a handle on a small grinder eather.
I thought this was a another fine video guy's!!
Here in Australia, you are Not Allowed to remove safety Guards, It is an offence that the Government Safety Group known as WORKCOVER will sue you for removing it, especially if someone gets Hurt using it that way. Me personally, I like the side Handle, it gives me Better control of the grinder.
Hi Tay, I'm a Fabricator, I use an Angle grinder a LOT. Here in Australia, If you remove a Guard off Any Tool you can get in HUGE Trouble from firstly your Boss, then a Government body known as WORKCOVER, they will sue you for removing said Guards, you need to just turn it to a position that doesn't get in your way too much. Yes I REALLY Prefer the Paddle Switch, the Bosch style small push switches on the side of the body are a Bloody Pain to use. We use 1mm Slitting discs, 2mm slitting discs that I use to get into corners to grind out "square" and Hard "rock" discs for normal grinding, some are Ceramic discs that work pretty well, and of course Flap discs for steel and Zirconium based flap discs for Aluminium. The biggest grinder I use is a 9", It is a Beast, but it can really cut hard with it, or give you more "reach" into corners.
my favourite angle grinder is one my dad gave me its an original industrial black and decker from 1984 and is still working perfectly after a recent service i expect it to last to give to my lad when hes 18
I usually cut off the flange but leave the body of the guard, keeps me from breaking wheels in careless ways while still giving me a reasonable amount of flexibility for grinding. My grinder for cutting wheels always has a guard, it's saved me from some very bad experiences.
I've personally cut myself pretty badly with a cutting wheel and I've seen a girl get her hair too close to a flapwheel... The hospital shaved the rest of her head treating the scalping that ensued and last I saw her she hadn't let it grow out yet years later.
As for the tool, I rarely use it putting the wheels on but always end up using it to take them off again.
I have 3. Thin cut off wheel, flap disk, solid grinder disk. Of course, I need to change something out if I want to use my wire cup. Maybe I will buy a 4th based on your purchase tips... switch, cable, weight. Thanks for the workshop chat.
Edit to add...
All mine have the guard still on. So how easy it is to adjust the guard is another purchase consideration.
I am a meteorologist by profession. Just saying.
Love the content.I have three myself, two Milwaukee's and a Metabo. However the battery Milwaukee with the brake does spoil me.
I find people remove guards because they either can’t see or they’re hoping to fit the grinder somewhere tight. I cut my guards so they are only covering the wheel for about 110deg of the wheel. So flush with the bottom of the tool to the point it’s flush with the front of the head. (If that makes sense……). Since keeping the guards on and cutting them down I haven’t found a need to remove them even when trying to get them in horrible places on cars. Plus you can steady the tool when starting a cut because you can span your hand between the guard and the work.
I've got 4-5 of those $15 grinders. I've had a few for over 10 years - used every week for a few hours. They have lasted longer than brand names for 5 times the price. I buy grinders for each thing I want to do... coarse flap, fine flap, grind, cut, etc. Think I'm up to about 10. He's right about the switch. That is the most important thing. And the little tool wrench, stick it in the drawer. You'll never use it. (not all brands are the same size)
I bought that same angle grinder several years ago. I bought it because Jody from Welding Tips and Tricks got an adapter for Rolex disks. I use it with 2” Rolex. And ONLY with 2” Rolex disks. For that, it’s perfect. It’s small and light and more than powerful enough for that purpose. The switch is crap, but works. I got it on sale for $9.95. Crazy!
The rest of my grinders are all DeWalt paddle switch models for various power, though most are 4.5” 11 amp. One is battery. I NEVER use click on buttons. That’s really dangerous. If you drop them they will stay on and who knows what it will cut, very possibly you.
Thanks. I enjoyed the heck out of that video. It is much appreciated. I don't have occasion to use these much because I'm a home gamer. But they are sure handy sometimes. Occasionally they are just the right tool for the job and simple good sense is all you need to use them safely. Thanks again....
I'm a home gamer. I have 4 of them. 2 4.5", 1 6" and a 9". I use them every weekend.
(Get out in your shop more!)
Face shield for me...thanks for the informative videos
One of my biggest beefs with those who use angle grinders improperly is when they put them down on a table or bench disc down. They're meant to be put down on the back side with the blade sitting up!
i really like hliti grinders the last one i had, got about 3000 hours of active use out of it before i completely total the gear box.
Haha I love it tay! Don’t try this at home! I’m headed to the grinder to try that trick 😂😂
Nice. Corded Bosch for me.
I would not dare to remove my guard. would probably make it a tad easier to see but I rather not take the chance, especially at home when no one is around.
My harbor freight 4" grinder is from 2006 and is still grinding metal nearly every day! Paid
Grinder guards are best tack welded to your bench and used to hang your grinder
Chinesium Lottery!!!! FOR THE WIN!!!!
My scariest angle grinder is the 45 year old 9" Milwaukee. Will wrap you up and spit you out in pieces at the slightest mistake. Takes about 30 seconds to stop. Tries to torque out of your death grip like a cat being put into a bath on startup.
But it will quickly bevel a plate in a 4th of July like shower of sparks.
For my 5c - Cutting/grinding with a disc? Keep the guard, it'll save you from shrapnel. Wire brush / sanding? Ditch the guard it's just a pain in the ass. A disc might only break once in a lifetime... but that's all it takes. Once. You suffer life changing injuries because it was a hassle? Nah. (I do like the quick-adjust lever though - very good idea)
Second most dangerous tool is the grinder. ER is full of people who took the guard off. 1st most dangerous is table saw. Love the show a bunch, but they need to treated with a lot of respect. Experienced guy just the other day, had one bind and jump up at him into his shirt and tore up his chest down to the bone, missing his chest muscle. And was one of those dead man switches, so it kept going as it twisted up his shirt pulling it further into his chest. For me, the paddle switch is a requirement. Toss out all others. And keep the gaurd on. Would also only use it for cutting as a last resort. Installing the handle and using the tool with firm grip on both the handle and tool is also requirement, as that is only way to keep it from kicking back into your shirt. It happens so fast, you can not react to it and the handle really helps prevent serous potential issues. Not safety weenie here, but this tool requires more respect than most. Cheers
I use the cheapo HF grinder just for wire wheels. It got to hot as a grinder or cut off wheel.
That's crazy, I have my 20 yr old dewalt loaded with the same wire wheel, and that is all I keep on that thing.
all we had when I was a kid was a 40lb 8-inch disc grinder
i always wear heavy gloves now . didnt untill one disc blew apart and ended up with 14 stiches in fingers
I'd recommend the 6amp version over this 4.3 as I believe it's better build and obviously more powerful.
Thats funny cuz the first tool I bought was a milwaukee grinder. when I got home to cut the muffles out my brothers ford focus I realized it came without the battery 😂 and I proceeded to not buy a battery for the next year and a half and never used it until I got more money
@Tay What's the deal with the QSC speakers in the shop?! I weld on the side and also play with a band ...it's not something you typically see in a shop such as yours. Please do a video if y'all are into bands/music. I'd love to get nerdy with welders and music sometime! -Steve in Columbia, SC
Currently have a Harbor Freight Tig, Everlast 140 Mig.....and a Miller 252. For a home gamer ...I think I'm hanging there. I've also got a 1956 Clausing 3-phase 20" drill press I run off a VFD....in my garage (neighborhood). She's a purdy lady. Let's chat soon!
Just whelmed 🎉
Dewalt DW02 still exists, but it's design and such has changed. Type it in google and you can see for yourself. Doesn't look like the one you have anymore. The one you have might have been made in USA - new ones, obviously are not!
The cover never gets in the way 😁 and the 5 lbs grinde must hawe handle all the time 🙃(I've never used lighter ones because they're too weak for anything 😋). Minimum 8A (900W) for cutting with a 1mm thick disc and 14A (1400W) for grinding. For hevy sanding, the paper on the rubber disc 36 gr. goes like butter 😊. I haven't seen a grinder in Europe that, when plugged in, can turn itself on even when the switch is on 🤔. Speed regulation is very useful. And it's not worth spending money on grinders below PLN 300 (USD 80) .
Changing wheels for non-professionals: Step 1, unplug the grinder.
How do I get the flapper sander disk back to the original abrasive quality? Mine looses half its abrasiveness and the flappers doesn't ware down to the fresh abrasive area like I think it should.
You aren't using enough pressure and likely are using the incorrect grit. With a coarse wheel, trying to get a smooth finish, you won't apply enough pressure to abrade the flaps.
I use a DeWalt cord grinder and they have a off on switch on the side it's ok but my Hilti 22v battery has a off on switch too but if you remove your hand it will shut off like a dead man
i prefer air grinders over plug in, they dont try to rip your arm off if the wheel catches
I see that you're a discerning to buyer. You like high technology in a corded tools? I have a friend who sells corded tools with battery charge, discharge, short circuit protection, and over temperature protection like those fancy battery tools without the expensive inconvenient batteries. Just amazing!! So I turning you on, my friend.
You going to do this right in front of my OSHA handbook?? /s
as a poor person with years of experience using the cheap HF drill master/warrior grinders i can attest that if you try to use them like you would a name brand grinder you will smoke them in no time but if you back off and slow down your cutting so they don't everheat they will last for a while which i'm sure sounds like total waste of time to someone who is used to more expensive tools but for us poor people, when the only choices are take a little longer with a cheap grinder or take a whole lot longer with a hacksaw slowing down is actually speeding up for us.........
Ankle grinder, perhaps the only tool that actually requires eye protection.
Also, please, DON'T BUY 6/7 INCH CUTOFF WHEELS AND RUN THEM ON A 4 1/2 INCH ANGLE GRINDER.
You can hurt yourself and others badly with an angle grinder.
I haven't found a scenario where I /had/ to remove the guard. A lot of places where it could have been easier without, but never needed.
Also I double up safety glasses and mask cause bro I've seen exploding disks and DO NOT WANT
Changing wheels:
Step 1- remove the tool from its source of power!
Missed one point! The wire wheel os the most dangerous abrasives to use. It will rip flesh off, and sling darts at your balls.
Oh Yeah, been there.
Push and push is off even if on after a shutoff.
@AVE is awesome!
In denmark its illegal to remove handle and the guard. You can get big fines from til work enviroment departementet. 🙈💸 But in denmark its normal to have the handle and guard. I have never heard people getting upset by the guard. The law is as old as the angle grinder so its just a Thing you get use to.
You think you have it bad...
My wife *manages* a Harbor Freight. 😆 😊
Great video- I don't like the guard either, but it does keep the sparks away from me. The little trick about spinning the nut on is extremely cool- not recommended, I get it, but cool nonetheless.
I worked with someone that managed to cut his leg to the bone with a 9" grinder, luckily I wasn't working that day as I heard is was a tad messy
The reason why you like the paddle switch is because of your huge hands and fingers. Small hand workers like trigger switches ... I've heard from my small hand friends...
Sorry the problem was on my side all good now
If guards/handles were critical components they wouldn’t be removable. That and the fact that they can be moved around/position changed is an admission of they’re poor and invasive design
Oh Tay how we all laugh at you Americans over there with your 110v. I mean you can’t get killed properly with that. In Ireland every house runs 220-240v and industry uses 400v 3 phase. Now 400 volts is a manly way to fry!
In fairness to ye, that was a good video for newbies. Looking forward to the lathe safety video. 💀
Cheap grinders are great when you have alot of finish work and you don’t want to have to keep changing wheels.
Love your videos. When you add music, it makes hearing you arduous. Adds nothing but increases my desire to stop the video.
I think you got a problem with the ettering of this one
You know what they say. . . you get what you pay for!!
your an ad masquerading as content.. your projects are are fairly interesting but too much fluff. tune it up mate or folks will switch off
So you guys are not as irresponsible as you appear to be. 😂😂😂
Number one rule with grinders...UNPLUG when changing grinding wheels. ALWAYS!!! Number two rule with grinders...Always wear eye and hand protection. ALWAYS! Fairly certain that was Tay's real message.
when i did my training as a fabrication engineer we had to watch a safety video ( actual security footage of a 9 inch grinder killing someone wearing a hoodie )every person that has seen that video never wears a hoodie grinding or using any other cordless power tool