Makita or Dewalt. Used both for years in shop where I worked. Paddle switch is easier to use with gloves I think.
Unless you have the very heavy duty batteries, cordless grinders go thru them quickly. And in my experience stop just before being finished even on small jobs.

quote:

Originally posted by Black92LX:
I worked in a fabrication shop for years. Ever grinder big and small in that place was a Metabo. Never had an issue and were always worked hard. Still made in Germany

Metabo - 5" Variable Speed Angle Grinder - 2,800-10,500 RPM - 9.5 AMP W/Electronics, Lock-On (600388420/WEV 10-125), Concrete Renovation Grinders/Surface Prep Kits/Cutting/Finishing https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00W..._api_i_Dxr2DbEWH7PT9

The iron workers I've worked with always use Metabo. In fact, angle grinders aren't called angle grinders--they're called Metabos and they even use it as a verb.

quote:

Originally posted by Keystoner:
< snip >
In fact, angle grinders aren't called angle grinders--they're called Metabos and they even use it as a verb.

Metabos metabos metabos?

(Angle grinders angle grind angle grinders.)

I bought one from HF a number of years ago. I only use it periodically and has worked just fine. Think I paid about $40 for it

When I was doing IT work before retiring I remember being at a couple businesses that had a bunch of Bosch grinders. I have one and it is great but I don't use it that much. My power tools are Bosch, Milwaukee, and Makita and I don't regret the investment.

The Metabo hammer drill I bought in '94 was literally the nicest power tool I've ever owner. The way its variable speed trigger engaged the motor, and the smoothness of the gears and electric engine, was fantastic. Eventually I smoked the drill, pushing oversized masonry bits, a few desperate hours on jobs gone bad, but it was on heavy use for over a decade.

It cost $155 in 1994 and came with a nice metal box.

Jeff is selling the Metabo 4 1/2" 7.0 AMP model for $49 delivered. It's the base model Metabo, but that might be like buying the base-model Subaru. Still one of the best vehicles on the road. It says German manufacture in the Metabo ad but further down is this info:

The Metabo W750-115 angle grinder is German engineered and manufactured in Metabo's own factory in Shanghai. It represent the base of all the angle grinders that Metabo manufactures in our factories: 8 are made in Shanghai, 51 are made in our Nurtingen, Germany factory and home office.

https://www.amazon.com/Metabo-...rinder/dp/B01M29KMEI

Like I said, I have a 6.5 amp unit which has never been less than I needed for the occasional very heavy-duty cut. You'll definitely want superior ear protection, along with goggles and a respirator.

My understanding is that Metabo recently acquired Hitachi Power Tools and Metabo now has an HPT (Hitachi Power Tools) line of tools and those are rebranded Chinese Hitachi tools.

Hitachi stuff seemed pretty good but if you are wanting the tried and true German Metabo the HPT line is not it.

Exploding cut off wheels kills a few people every year. The face shield is a very good idea.

quote:

Originally posted by apf383:
For an occasional use I find my HF unit to be more than adequate. Not a glamorous piece, but for 9.95 how badly could you get hurt?

This.

My HF has served me well. I use it as homeowner, similar to use you described.

HF grinders usually vibrate horribly. First, I would go with the 4.5" size. On the brand, the DeWalt grind is very good. As mentioned above, buy some decent safety glasses or even a face shield.