Choose the best cordless angle grinder

Choose the best cordless angle grinder

A cordless grinder can be used on the go for finishing, deburring and cutting but, with so many options on the market, which cordless grinder is best? Although the answer lies in what you’ll be using it for, it’s also important to remember a cordless grinder is a highly versatile tool that can be used for a wide range of tasks thanks to a highly adaptable accessory mounting system. In this guide, we’ll take you through the best cordless angle grinders for different uses, give you cordless angle grinder comparisons and discuss the range of accessories available to you at ToolStore UK.


What size grinder should I choose?

Angle grinders are classed according to the size of disc they are designed for, with 115mm and 125mm grinders being the most popular sizes. Smaller grinders are more compact and therefore more lightweight and maneuverable, but the discs they use will have a limited depth of cut and are not efficient for tackling larger jobs. Choose a larger, more powerful cordless grinder if you need to perform deep cuts or remove significant amounts of material, but remember these may be heavier and cause more fatigue.

What is an angle grinder?

An angle grinder is a fairly simple machine: essentially it is just a motor connected to a gear mechanism which drives a spindle set at a right angle from the body, from which it gets its name. The adaptable accessory mounting system makes this tool so versatile, and the most basic model will excel at grinding metal and cutting through metal and most types of masonry materials. More expensive models are packed with advanced features and modern technology, like brushless motors, anti-restart function and electric brakes.


Here are some of the key features that you should be investigating when you’re purchasing an angle grinder:


Variable Speed

Angle grinders have high operating speeds, running at around 11,000rpm, that will cut or grind metal effortlessly. Variable speed control is not very common in angle grinders but, if you plan to use the tool for more than standard cutting and grinding applications, it will offer you a lot more control. This can be especially useful when using accessories like backing pads for sanding or if you intend to use wire brushes which sometimes can have individual speed restrictions. The Makita DGA517RTJ 18v BL 125mm Grinder is a cordless angle grinder with a variable speed control dial, plus Automatic Torque Drive Technology that automatically changes the cutting speed according to load condition.


Safety Trigger Switch

Many angle grinders can be locked in to the ‘on’ position for continuous operation. While this is a useful feature, particularly during prolonged use, it can be dangerous if there is an interruption to your power supply. If, for example, the battery needs to be replaced or the plug gets pulled out accidentally, the machine will suddenly jump back to life as soon as power is restored. A trigger switch is a safety feature that automatically breaks the circuit if power to the machine is cut and, to start up the angle grinder again, you will need to ensure the switch is switched off and then switched back into the ‘on’ position. The DeWalt DCG418X2 54v FlexVolt Brushless 125mm Grinder has a trigger switch that prevents accidental start-ups and an electronic clutch to reduce kickback reaction in the event of a pinch or stall.


Electronic Clutch

An electronic clutch is a safety system that immediately shuts off power if binding conditions are detected. That could be the speed dropping rapidly enough to indicate a jammed accessory. The tool will shut down before any kickback can occur, helping to reduce the risk of injury or damage to wrists, for example, or harm anyone in the path of the machine. Electronic clutches are found mainly in higher end professional tools, like the DeWalt DCG414T2 54v XR Flexvolt angle grinder.


Electric Brakes

With more standard angle grinders, the spindle will slow down gradually until the remaining energy is completely spent – it doesn’t come to an immediate stop. It would not be safe to put the angle grinder down at this time and could also pose a considerable hazard if something goes wrong and you need to stop it quickly. Angle grinders with electric brakes, like the DeWalt DCG405N 18V XR Brushless 125mm Angle Grinder, are designed to quickly bring the accessory to a stop as soon as the trigger is released.



Mesh Guard

Using an angle grinder will create plenty of dust and debris that can get sucked through the motor to cause problems and shorten the life of your tool. Look out for angle grinders with mesh guards that sit over the air intake vents to prevent dust from entering, like on this DeWalt DCG418T2 54v Flexvolt Brushless 125mm grinder.


Angle Grinder Accessories

Abrasive and Diamond Cutting discs, grinding discs and wire brushes are just some of the most common angle grinder accessories at ToolStoreUK, available in a multitude of sizes, types and configurations. You’ll find cutting, grinding and brushing accessories, cutting and grinding discs, sanding and polishing accessories and much more. Ensure you have chosen the correct accessories required for the task at hand and that they are suitable for your tool model. If you have any doubts about whether a specific tool or accessory will be suitable for the job, please contact our friendly and knowledgeable team who will be happy to help. Equipped with a threaded spindle and a flange nut, accessories can be either locked into place using the nut (and a unique type of spanner which is supplied with the machine) or screwed directly onto the spindle.

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DeWalt Angle Grinder

What type of PPE do I need when using an angle grinder?

It is important to make sure you have adequate protection when working with angle grinders. Protect yourself against flying chips and sparks with eye protection or full face shields. We also stock a wide range of head and ear protection, as well as protective gloves.

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4th April 2022

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