DA or Rotary for a newbie

[flakey]

While I have read a lot about DA being lesser evil for a newbie, I have also heard that most DA users eventually move up to a Rotary and don't need to use the DA again.
While the appeal of the DA seems to be that it is safer than a rotary in un-trained hands, it seems you can get the same job done with a rotary in less than half the time.

I want to start with something inexpensive but don't want to buy both DA & Rotary. I am tilting towards a rotary, what would you recommend?

[Detailing by M]

Re: DA or Rotary for a newbie

where did you hear that?
A DA is a "safe" and an extremely effective tool.

A rotary is an advanced tool, not for noobs.

Get a G110 and the DAMF System and you'll do amazing things with it.

[Evan.J]

Re: DA or Rotary for a newbie

where did you hear that?
A DA is a "safe" and an extremely effective tool.

A rotary is an advanced tool, not for noobs.

Get a G110 and the DAMF System and you'll do amazing things with it.

I agree 100%

[Michael Stoops]

Re: DA or Rotary for a newbie

There is no doubt that the rotary is the more potent tool of the two, but in the hands of a new user the risks far outweigh the extra power. As Mario mentions, get a G110v2 and the DA Microfiber Correction System and you'll have almost the cutting power of a rotary but with all the safety of a DA.

I have also heard that most DA users eventually move up to a Rotary and don't need to use the DA again.

We would argue this point. In fact, the vast majority of elite detailers we know rarely use a rotary at all any more and do virtually everything via DA. Microfiber pads and the latest compound technology have really changed the game.

[BillE]

Re: DA or Rotary for a newbie

I'll just add, I started with a rotary 'way back when' (no longer even own one) and in the last ten-fifteen years I've only needed (wished for) a rotary a couple of times (when working on boats/RVs).

In other words...go with a good quality DA and you'll be golden.

Good luck...

Bill

[groundskeeper willie]

Re: DA or Rotary for a newbie

i agree with alll the above and especially bill. i rarely break out the rotary EXCEPT when doing boats. this is where a rotary is a must.

[flakey]

Re: DA or Rotary for a newbie

Thanks a lot for all the responses. The other thing about DA that worries me is people complaining about "Pins & Needles" feeling in their hands for days. Why is that?

[ClearlyCoated]

Re: DA or Rotary for a newbie

We would argue this point. In fact, the vast majority of elite detailers we know rarely use a rotary at all any more and do virtually everything via DA. Microfiber pads and the latest compound technology have really changed the game.

Yup. DA's and microfiber pads have really abraded the playing field.

[ClearlyCoated]

Re: DA or Rotary for a newbie

Thanks a lot for all the responses. The other thing about DA that worries me is people complaining about "Pins & Needles" feeling in their hands for days. Why is that?

The pins and needles (or numbing) is from the vibration oscillation of the DA. It's nothing to be concerned about. Most detailers (including novice detailers) quickly acclimate to the oscillations and adjust their stance or grip to lessen or eliminate the effects. You can also buy anti-vibration gloves which are very effective. Harbor freight sells a pair of fingerless anti-vibration gloves (yellow and black with velcro bands) for less than $10. I use a pair myself.

[Stephan]

Re: DA or Rotary for a newbie

Originally Posted by flakey
Thanks a lot for all the responses. The other thing about DA that worries me is people complaining about "Pins & Needles" feeling in their hands for days. Why is that?

Never had any issues at all with the G110v2, and I have carpal tunnel problems.

[BillyJack]

Re: DA or Rotary for a newbie

I agree wholeheartedly with the preceding posts. I learned on a rotary 30 years ago and still have my metal case, made-in-USA Rockwell machine. If it quit running tomorrow, I might replace it sometime in the future when the need would arise for quick and effective results. However, if my D/A broke tomorrow, I'd be shopping on the web the same day, credit card in hand, for a replacement. I've only had a D/A for a couple years but I just couldn't imagine being without one.

Bill

[Detailing by M]

Re: DA or Rotary for a newbie

Thanks a lot for all the responses. The other thing about DA that worries me is people complaining about "Pins & Needles" feeling in their hands for days. Why is that?

The Porter Cable and the Griot's Garage ones vibrate VIOLENTLY. Meg's doesn't act like that, smooth.

I don't know why anyone would by those machines carpel tunnel in a year using those "vibrators"

[groundskeeper willie]

Re: DA or Rotary for a newbie

i only ever had alot of vibration (and the pins and needles you described) with the PC. My Flex is a dream, except it rotates counterclockwise, which is its own battle...lol

[flakey]

Re: DA or Rotary for a newbie

Is it true that products like M105/205 are designed to be used with a rotary while UC/UP are for a DA?
Although I will only be detailing my car and a few friend's cars, I'd like to use the detailer line products than the consumer line products. Is that an excuse enough to buy a rotary as I don't see myself using UP/UC/SwirlX ever.

[Evan.J]

Re: DA or Rotary for a newbie

No the New version of M105 can be used with the DA now. The original formula was for rotary and hand application.

UC and UP are the consumer versions of the M105 and M205. These are a little more user friendly and offer a longer working time.