The Perfect Addition to Your Toolbox
The Hitachi G12SR3 4-1/2 Inch 6 Amp Angle Grinder is an essential tool that should be in every handyman’s arsenal. Whether you need to work with tile, metalwork, or concrete, this grinder offers outstanding performance and ease of use at an affordable price.
Build Quality and Accessories
The G12SR3 features an innovative design, with its slim and lightweight body, combining die-cast and plastic parts. It comes with a convenient Hitachi plastic tool case that provides ample space for spare blades, wheel covers, and side handles – although you may not need them. Additionally, the kit includes five grinding wheels for steel applications, making it perfect for metalworking.
Easy Activation and Maintenance
Activating the grinder is a breeze thanks to the side-mounted thumb switch. While not as simple as some Dewalt paddle switches, it is still user-friendly. Moreover, the switch can be locked in place, allowing for extended use without manually pressing it. The G12SR3 also boasts replaceable brushes, although accessing them requires removing a few screws. This feature is useful for those who are willing to put in a little extra effort.
Changing blades is a quick and hassle-free process. The grinder has a button that sets the lock pin, preventing the wheel from spinning. The included wrench provides ample torque for securing and loosening wheels and discs. With an average blade change time of around 20 seconds, you can seamlessly switch between masonry, metal, and diamond wheels.
Ergonomics and Ease of Use
Despite its impressive power, the Hitachi G12SR3 feels surprisingly lightweight and comfortable to handle. While the claimed weight is 3.1 pounds, we found it to be slightly heavier without the handle and wheel covers, weighing about 4 pounds. Nevertheless, it remains easy to manipulate and provides stability when working on intricate cuts. The thumb switch is intuitive to use, and locking it into place is a smooth process. Additionally, it can be operated with just one hand, making it ideal for various applications.
Real-Life Testing
To put the grinder to the test, we removed the side handle and blade guard. Cutting out a pattern in cardboard proved to be incredibly fast and efficient, saving us time compared to using a jigsaw and masonry blade. In fact, for many cuts, we found the angle grinder to be more versatile and accurate than a miter saw. It effortlessly sliced through Hardiboard, demonstrating its impressive cutting capabilities.
When working with tiles, the Hitachi G12SR3 proved to be a valuable tool. We used it to make precise cuts on 12×12 tiles for a bathroom project. Its one-handed operation and clear line of sight allowed us to create clean circular cuts effortlessly. This level of precision is crucial in tile cutting projects and leaves a lasting impression on clients.
The Perfect Addition to Your Toolbox
In conclusion, the Hitachi G12SR3 4-1/2 Inch 6 Amp Angle Grinder is a must-have tool for any handyman. Its exceptional performance, affordability, and user-friendly design make it a top choice. With a retail price of $50, there’s no reason not to own one. Invest in this versatile grinder and take your projects to the next level.
Note: All images are from the original article.