Belt sander for train layout?

What are you planning to sand, the layout framing or jigsaw cut plywood? Wouldn't a hand sander be more convenient? I saw a video of a guy shaping foam for a train layout with a hand-held belt sander. I didn't use a sander when building my layout, but I don't have a lot of exotic curved edges or fascia.

George

I have both at work and a much larger one. The small one inch wide  is good for very small projects or fine detail on wood or plastic. Not recommended for building lumber 2X4's  but can get the job done with patience. The slightly larger is more useful on larger pieces like plywood and finish work and shelving. What exactly do you want it to do?

Detailed work on the layout.  Foam brick wall joints,  custom fencing, small adjustment for detailed fits.

I could think of a million times I wished I had that rotating disc sander.  If I had to pick one, I would choose "B".  I'm not even sure how I would use the vertical belt in "A".

Have Fun!

Ron

I think either sander would be a good choice for layout work.  I so happen to have sander "A", and it's worth its weight in gold when I need it.

I just bought one from Rockler.  Just like your’ A above.  Works very well, not huge not too,small.  Happy with it.  

JMARTIN,  I have "A" and it does the jobs I have used it for, including sanding wood, plastic and flattening track ends. The disc on the side is a little awkward to use. I like the fact it is small so it can be stored out of the way easily. Grit selection on the belts is important for doing a good job. Remember it is not a commercial grade power tool so feed rates are important.

Steve

JMARTIN,  I recently bought a Ryobi identical to your "B". It's been invaluable for tweaking small parts and keeping the edges nice and square or fine tuning angle cuts. I wish I had picked it up a couple of years ago, the big plus for me is you can hook a shop vac right up to it to keep the dust down.

Scott

Probably one of the most used tools.   IMO.   Be sure you have access to the belts and sticky-back sanding disk.  

FWIW, there are also inexpensive kits for turning your drill press or drill into a mini drum sander for working on curved pieces of wood or foam, like this one for $9 on amazon.

Buy one of each.  Help the China economy restart...

I have both models and they are great for wood and metal.   Be sure to match the grit to the project as 80 grit will remove material real fast!   Most Mfgr's include an 80 grit belt with the sander because it's cheaper than finer grit belts.

I have a disc sander from Micro-Mark and love it for all my detail work.