MakitaGD0801C 1/4-Inch SJS Die Grinder

This is a great tool. It is very powerful and the variable speed setting is a great feature. I can't think of a bad thing to say about it. It's great.See my picture of the paddle switch on/off switch if you are wondering what the difference is between this model and the GD0800C. The GD0800C has a slide switch and that is the only difference I am aware of.

Great Product!!

I ordered 2 of these. One was already returned once( you could tell by the packaging. Both burned up and were smoking after a minute of use. Got so hot you couldn’t even handle them. For 300 dollars a piece not what I would expect. Double thumbs down.

I'm very satisified with this brand. I have other tools from Makita for almost 15 years without any fault. I needed to make some restoration works. So I evaluated some die grinder of different brands.Variable speed, starting with 7,000 rpm's only Makita complied this requirement. Price was a little lower than competitors price. Then, I choose Maikta GD801C.Used for about three continuous hours, I have't any complaint and I love it.Highly recommended

Most of the reviews of this grinder are by hobbyists who are probably comparing it to a Dremel tool and are blown away by it's function. As someone who has held a die grinder for hundreds of hours...here are the pros and cons.Pro: Good power, fairly quiet and smooth and variable speed operation.Cons: Pretty bulky, wont fit in man tight places. Most of all...there is no lock to keep the grinder 'on'. This is a real drawback as it forces you to keep the paddle depressed all the time. Unforgivable in a tool like this. All the cheaper grinder made by Makita have lock-on. This one should, too. It's also poorly balanced...far too back-heavy. So...the ability to do fine work is hampered by your arm position that is way too fat back keeping the paddle depressed and the tool balanced.

Its very powerful. I used it to polish my aluminum wheels. I smoked out several buffing wheels. Then I found a dial that reduces the speed which made the grinder easier to control. Guess I should of read the directions. Very satisfied.

A magnificent tool to have so versatile. A very powerful random speed motor with a paddle switch which is pretty awesome. Extremely happy and highly recommend this die grinder. Thus far Makita has never let me down.

Purchased this product 08/2016.Used it for 3rd time yesterday, motor started smoking. First two times I used it,less than a minute, motor runs very hot.within two minutes, too hot to hold.I am using a 2 in.buffing wheel so not that much load.I bought this tool after reading the reviews but frankly, very disappointed. I expected more from Makita and for over $200,don'the think I'lll buy another Makita product again.