Angle grinders

["John VanCamp" <jvcstnwrks@zzzzzzzzzzzzz>]

Deb,   it is the get what you pay for syndrome.  I have learned
 from experience that higher priced tools will last longer than
cheapos when working with stone, and that certain manufactures
produce tools more suited to stonework than others.  You need to
look at what type bearings and how they are sealed, since it is
the stone dust getting into these that kill the tool.  Without
mentioning brands, I can tell you that the circular saws I use
will give me 2 to 3 years of cutting (daily) before I regulate
them to the scrape heap or consider a rebuild.  These saws
retail for around $120.00.  I can by a 40.00 saw, and It might
get through 2 weeks of heavy use, but not very often.  Have had
cheapo's burn up in less than a day cutting limestone.  ( I do
keep one of these around to cut the occasional 2x4 or piece of
plywood)  The way I figure it, I am saving a lot of money by
spending more up front.  Mini grinders work much the same way.
Spend a little more for a quality tool, and it will outlast a
dozen cheap ones.   Visit a fabrication shop in your area, and
see what brand tools are used,  or shoot me a private email and
I'll share my preferences with you ( don't believe this list is
the proper place to advertise brands as several are good)
Good carving,
John VanCamp / JVC Stoneworks