DEWALT DW849 8 Amp 7-Inch/9-Inch Electronic Variable-Speed Right-Angle Polisher

I found myself running at about 1800-2000 RPM's over most of the boat but having the extra power when needed was definitely a time saver.

The only drawback I could mention is that this tool is not friendly about accepting generic polishing and cutting pads produced by "other" manufacturers. The Dewalt mounting bolt for the flex backplate leaves few options other than to use DeWalt pads unless you want to use the drawstring type, and I have been unable to find any drawstring pads worth purchasing.


DeWalt Polisher   July 5, 2000
Jarrad Krueger (Seattle, WA USA)
25 out of 25 found this review helpful

This is the best polisher/buffer i have ever used. I own a detailing company and this is the only high speed buffer we use. Very well built. We have one that is over 4 years old, and still works like it is brand new. The variable speeds make this buffer great for beginning polishers and expert detailers. A must buy.


foam & wool pads   October 9, 2001
14 out of 16 found this review helpful

To the person who has problems with , and refered to tie pads.
Any major paint wholesaler can sell you a kit that will replace
the pad with a velcro based plate to which you can place a foam
or wood pad with a touch and all work great.


dewalt buffer   September 9, 2008
Matthew Specht (Kenosha, WI USA)
2 out of 2 found this review helpful

I've worked with Makita, Milwaukee, and DeWalt buffers. I use them for buffing and waxing boats. I've found that for the weight and agility, the DeWalt is the absolute best. When you're doing a lot of buffing around corners, curves, angles, and detail work around lights and horns, it pays to have a lighter machine. The variable speed trigger is great - you can start off really slowly (reducing compound splatter), and you can increase as needed. The lighter machine does NOT mean cheap or not as good!! Obviously, when you keep your tools clean and maintain them, they last. I've seen DeWalts last years with little or no maintenance. I love my DeWalt!


Dewalt DW849 & Pro Beauty Products   January 16, 2009
dozer (Central Valley, CA)
2 out of 2 found this review helpful

I ordered my Dewalt DW849 high speed polisher from Amazon for only $163 w free shipping - WAY LOWER than all competitors on the net! It's solid & built to last, is variable speed fm 1000-3000 rpm, and works great. Some don't care for the weight but you get used to it -- it doesn't weigh a ton. In my opinion if you are looking for a high speed polisher this is the purchase to make -- it's a proven tool from a respected manufacturer that's been around for years. It's a no-brainer.

I use Pro Car Beauty Products purchased @ a local shop or the net & the products work great. I use the foam waffle pads, #1 Polish, & Cherry Finishing Wax from Pro on most cars & you can't argue with the results. For beginners I would recommend keeping the rpm at 1000 & remember to keep the buffer moving & you should have no problems. And yes, I do use the buffer to wax my cars because Pro's products are great & I'm experienced with the Dewalt. I've read some reviews recommending not to do this but I haven't had any problems or complaints.