Ridgid r2601 Review: 5-Inch Ridgid Orbital Sander

This orbital sander has not been updated for several years. The most similar and recent model is the ** R2611 **, which, however, features a 6 Inch Pad instead of a 5″ one. To stay on the 5 Inch, you need to switch to the cordless model  R8606B GEN5X.

Despite its age, the Ridgid r2601 stands out for its efficiency in collecting dust and variable speed. This option is highly appreciated by that part of artisans who want to avoid excessive smoothing when starting work.

The r26011 Ridgid orbital sander is mains-powered, so there is no need to charge the device or worry about battery packs. Plug the Ridgid r2601 sander into your mains supply, and you are up and running. This model takes a 5″ sanding pad that you can attach easily to the orbital sander thanks to the hook and loop backing pad design. This is like a strong velcro that will hold the pad securely in place while you are sanding but also allows for easy removal.

The Ridgid random orbit sander also has a variable speed setting that allows the pad to spin between 7000 and 12,000 OPM (revolutions per minute). These speeds are calculated when the pad is spinning freely. Although the pad does clearly slow down when it makes contact with a surface, it is still a very powerful sander. Two great features that make this one of the best Rigid orbital sanders that we have seen are the soft start – which allows the pad to speed up slowly – and the pad brake, which slows it down when there is too much resistance. These two features help to prevent gouges from being made to the area that you are sanding.

The Ridgid r2601 random orbital sander also comes with a dust collection unit that is easily detachable and claims to collect up to 90% of dust particles that result from the sanding work. This makes the Ridgid r2601 ideal for use as a drywall sander. We tested this, and it does indeed do a very good job of collecting the dust from sanding. Although the dust collection unit does fill up very quickly, it is easy to detach and empty. It is much better than having no collection unit at all.

Overall the r2601 Ridgid random orbit sander is a very good product when it comes to sanding work. Although it currently has a rating of 3.3 on Amazon, it deserves more because it is very robust, straightforward to use, powerful and great value for money. The R2601 also made it onto our best orbital sander list for 2021.

Parts Specification

Below is the technical and operational diagram of the R2601.

A – Variable speed dial	D – Dust bag
B – Ergonomic handle	E – Hook-and-loop backing pad
C – Air vent	F – On/off switch

As for the Ridgid R2601 repair manual, you can find it on the manufacturer’s website at the following link:https://cdn2.ridgid.com/resources/media?key=9d3f043d-1a72-4ded-9601-c8c36349d23b&languageCode=en&type=document

 

Package Contents

• Ridgid r2601 orbital sander / Ridgid zrr2601 orbital sander
• 2 x 80 grit sandpaper sheets
• Dust bag
• Hook & Loop pad
• Toolbag
• Ridgid orbital sander Operator’s Manual

Other Important Information about the Ridgid orbital sander

• Model number – Ridgid r2601
• Part number – ZRR2601
• Item weight – 5.5 pounds
• Package dimensions – 12.8 x 7.6 x 5.1 inches
• Warranty – Limited Three Year Warranty and 90-Day Satisfaction Guarantee Policy; Lifetime Service Agreement

Why buy it?

https://cdn2.ridgid.com/resources/images/ced96ca0-1aae-43af-9691-71f3236d9822

It has shown itself to be very promising as a sander, and the price could be much higher. Furthermore, you can get free assistance if you register it on the manufacturer’s website after purchase. In case of failure, you can send it to the nearest service center, which will be returned to you in working condition free of charge.

The dust collection system is also very good.

Why not buy it?

On the other hand, many negative reviews find early breakages on intensive use.

You can get free assistance, but it may not be very convenient.