When it comes to wood carving, there is a lot that you need. You will need hand tools such as chisels and gouges. You may also want the best angle grinder for wood carving if your project requires power tools.
Angle grinders are one of the most versatile tools for wood carving. They can be used to carve, sand, shape and polish almost any type of wood. But with many brands on the market today, which do you go with?
This blog post will help you find out! We’re going to take a look at the top seven angle grinders for wood carving so that no matter what your budget is – there’s something for you!
Angle Grinder for Wood Carving – Quick Summary
Best All-Round: Makita XAG11Z 18 Volt Cordless Angle Grinder
“If you’re looking for a solid, no-nonsense tool that will always get the job done, there’s no better choice than the highly-rated The Makita XAG11Z Angle Grinder.”
Best for Wood Carving: King Arthur’s Tools Variable Speed Angle Grinder
“The MERLIN2 Miniature Angle Grinder from King Arthur’s Tools is small and lightweight but comes with a robust 15,000 RPM motor and a comprehensive beginner’s kit! Perfect for people looking for carving specific grinder.”
Suited for Working on Wood, Stone, Tile, and Brick: Litheli 20V Cordless Carving Grinder
“If you’re planning to cut through thicker material like stone other than carving wood, you want the Litheli 20V Cordless Angle Grinder that comes with a three-angle handle and quick heat dissipation for comfortable use.”
Most Durable: DEWALT Angle Grinder with Paddle Switch & Brake
“The Dewalt DWE4222N Angle Grinder Tool can take the rough treatment of being in a professional workshop’s regular grinder lineup for months without showing any wear or tear.”
Pick for Most Comprehensive Kit: K I M O. Cordless Angle Grinder for Wood
“KIMO’s new 20V Angle Grinder isn’t just a durable and easy-to-use product suitable for working on concrete, but also comes with extra disks and accessories for the experienced woodcarver.”
Most Cost-Efficient: Bosch 4-1/2-Inch Angle Grinder
“With 11,000 RPM and an epoxy-coating, the Bosch 4-1/2-Inch Angle Grinder 1375A stands out as the only angle grinder that lives up to the promise of being among the best at an affordable price.”
Best Angle Grinder for Wood Carving Reviews
1. Makita XAG11Z 18 Volt Cordless Angle Grinder
We’re starting this list off right with one of the best wood carving grinders from Makita. The Makita XAG11Z Cordless model.
This angle grinder comes with a solid mid-range RPM of 8,500, more than enough for most applications that don’t require heavy-duty 13-amp grinders.
It’s a cordless, brushless angle grinder, meaning you won’t be lugging a cumbersome cord around the entire room. Its brushless construction eliminates carbon brushes, letting you use the grinder for longer without significant heating.
We wanted to highlight the Makita XAG11Z Angle Grinder’s excellent battery life. Battery life is always a problem with cordless angle grinders, but the Makita BL1850B 18V LXT Lithium-Ion 5.0Ah Battery lasts for hours after a single charge.
A single charge, by the way, takes a quick 45 minutes which is a great thing for people who are always on the go.
And that’s not everything. The Makita XAG11Z Angle Grinder comes with an electric brake that stops the wheel in less than 2 seconds, along with Active-Feedback-Sensing Technology that turns the motor off if the wheel’s rotation stops for some reason.
It also comes with a soft start feature, so there’s no chance of you being jerked around.
Pros:
- Automatic Speed Change adjusts torque during operation for best performance
- An electric brake that instantly stops the cut-off wheel once the switch is let go
- Soft start feature eliminates jerkiness during start-up
- Cordless instead of corded, and the battery is lightweight
- Ergonomic and comfortable rubberized handles
- Battery displays charge level in clearly visible LED lights
Cons:
- The included cutting disk is very thin, so it’s only suitable for shallow woodworking. You’ll need carving discs to work perfectly.
2. King Arthur’s Tools Angle Grinder for Wood Carving
Our second pick, the MERLIN2 Universal Carving Set, isn’t a bare tool with a battery but a complete package for anything you’d want to use your angle grinder for. The set comes with a mini angle grinder and six wheels for cutting, sanding, carving, engraving, and woodworking.
At only 11-½” long and weighing 1.1-lbs, the MERLIN2 angle grinder’s small size and negligible weight make it perfect for people with smaller builds and hobbyists new to woodworking.
Don’t let its small size fool you, though. This mini angle grinder comes with a robust 15,000 RPM motor with variable speed settings and is perfect for both woodworking and cutting sheet metal.
However, the best part about the MERLIN2 Universal Carving Set has to be its versatility. Not only do they allow you to cut with or against the grain, but they’re also suitable for working on wood, rubber, plastic, fiberglass, and several other surfaces.
It’s also neatly designed towards enhancing convenience while also being an efficient tool for professionals. You can change out the discs safely and easily, and the grip is comfortable enough to eliminate hand cramps and fatigue.
If you ask us, the best use for this angle grinder is detailed work that larger, more heavy-duty angle grinders can’t accomplish.
Pros:
- Lighter than other angle grinders at a measly 1.1-pounds
- Robust 15,000 RPM performance
- Kit includes six discs for different uses
- Spiral gear system keeps the grinder operating without significant noise
- Great for detailed work that takes hours
- Ergonomic design eliminates hand fatigue
Cons:
- While it has its advantages, the MERLIN2 Universal Carving Set isn’t the most durable of angle grinders. That’s kind of a downside, given the hefty price tag.
- The switch on this angle grinder is also not up to the mark.
3. Bosch 4-1/2-Inch Angle Grinder
Makita and Universal’s great, but not everybody wants to end up spending close to three hundred bucks for an angle grinder. The Bosch 4-1/2-Inch Angle Grinder 1375A is a cheaper alternative that works great!
We’re going to point out that this grinder’s made for regular, daily use. It’s a little heavier than the MERLIN2 angle grinder, but it’s incredibly sturdy, built-to-last, and the cord’s not too annoying either.
As for features, well, the Bosch 4-1/2-Inch Angle Grinder 1375A doesn’t disappoint. The motor is a powerful 6.0-amp model that produces 11,000 no-load RPM, suitable for professional and at-home applications.
One of the things we liked the most was the innovative switch. Located on the side, you can turn the grinder’s switch all the way up for continuous operation. It’s pretty durable, so you don’t have to tiptoe around using it either.
It’s also amazingly cheap.
We’ve seen good products offered at amazing prices before, but if you’re looking for a grinder that gives you the most bang for the buck, you won’t find a better choice than the Bosch 1375A angle grinder.
We noticed that the power cord on the Bosch 4-1/2-Inch Angle Grinder 1375A was a little thin. Make sure no cut-offs fall on it, or it could get damaged easily.
Pros:
- Extremely cost-efficient product
- Above-average performance at 11,000 no-load RPM
- Epoxy-coated to protect the grinder from metal and wood debris
- Kit includes a burst protection guard to protect the user.
- Bosch’s Service Minder Brush System stops the tool when it requires performance.
- The Auxiliary handle can be moved to two different positions based on user preference.
Cons:
- We thought a paddle trigger would have been slightly more convenient than a push-button for start-up.
- As we said, the cord is very thin. Keep it out of the way when you’re using this angle grinder.
4. DEWALT Angle Grinder with Paddle Switch & Brake
The DWE4222N DEWALT Angle Grinder Tool is one of the best choices from Dewalt’s reliable lineup of angle grinders. With a powerful 11-amp motor delivering heavy-duty performance, it stands out as one of the best angle grinder for wood.
But hey, don’t take our word for it.
We’ll be the first ones to admit that this grinder’s a little on the heavy side, but if you ask us, the long-lasting tool life and a bevy of features more than makes up for the little bit of fatigue you’re going to experience while using it.
The DWE4222N Angle Grinder comes with several improvements over previous Dewalt models. One of the more visible ones is the noticeable upgrade to the brake, which slows the wheel 50% faster than previous models.
If you’re anything like us (or if you appreciate workplace safety in the slightest), you’ll enjoy the instant E-Clutch system that immediately shuts the motor down when it detects a stall. It also has a One-Touch guard for easy guard adjustments with a single action.
We also liked the upgraded dust ejection system on the DWE4222N, which keeps dust away from the switch and ensures a longer tool life than average.
Pros:
- Durable, sturdy product that’s very hard to wear out
- Can be used for hours without any signs of heating up
- Cools down within minutes even it heats up
- Excellent safety features to protect the user at all times
- Robust 11-amp motor
- Locking failsafe to prevent the motor from being damaged
Cons:
- If you ask us, it’s a little expensive for the basic angle grinder it is.
- It comes with a Lanyard connection point but doesn’t include the Lanyard itself. We thought that was a bit iffy.
5. Litheli 20V Cordless Wood Carving Grinder
The Litheli 20V Cordless Angle Grinder comes in at a little less expensive than the Dewalt model and, surprisingly, with performance that can give Dewalt a run for its money.
Seriously. We’re not kidding.
This Litheli angle grinder brings a powerful motor to the table, going up to 8,250 no-load RPM. It’s perfect for heavy-duty applications that you can’t use smaller grinders for and can be used for performing multiple tasks on tile, concrete, stone, and even brick.
Like the Makita XAG11Z, this is a cordless grinder. That means there’s no annoying cord to bother you in the middle of working.
Instead of a cord, this grinder uses a 4000-mAh Litheli Li-ion Power Tech battery, which provides stable power for hours. It takes a bit (about an hour) to charge up the battery, but that isn’t a dealbreaker for us.
The rubberized handles offer an excellent, non-slip grip for hours of easy use, and you can adjust the handle to three different positions to work at different angles.
Here’s a warning, though: this angle grinder doesn’t come with a case, so if you want to be carrying it to the shop, you’ll have to buy one separately.
Pros:
- Powerful motor suitable for working on stone, brick, and tile
- The rubberized handle adjusts to three positions for maximum comfort
- The included disks are perfect for most basic applications
- Double insulation protection for user safety
- Switch can be easily turned on/off when holding the grinder with either hand
- The long-lasting 4000-mAh Smart Battery can be used for any Litheli tool
Cons:
- Like we said, it doesn’t come with a case. That’s a definite drawback for people using their grinder regularly.
- We’d advise you to look up a couple of guides on YouTube before using this grinder. The manual’s helpful, but it’s not all that great.
6. Avid Power 7.5-Amp Angle Grinder
We haven’t checked out many Avid Power products yet, but if this 7.5-amp Angle Grinder is any indication, this is the company you should be going to for your budget power tools.
We’ll start with the best thing you’ll be getting with this angle grinder: the heavy-duty 7.5-amp motor with an above-average speed of 11,000 RPM. We know, we know: 7.5 isn’t exactly heavy-duty. But believe us, this grinder performs great at cutting through stone, wood, or tile.
And that’s not all that makes this an excellent heavy-duty grinder. The unit’s construction also enables fast heat dissipation so you can get back to work as soon as possible.
Besides that, it’s also a pretty handy little grinder for use on the weekends. The Avid Power 7.5-amp Angle Grinder has a compact and lightweight design, and a safety trigger lets you use it one-handed, too (you know, if you’re a workshop daredevil. We’re not!).
We loved that the package included two grinding wheels, two cutting wheels, and a flap disc. Given this angle grinder’s almost negligible price, that’s a lot of bang for your buck. The best part, though, is that it’s more than enough for anybody just starting with woodworking!
Pros:
- Cost-efficient product with far above-average performance
- Robust 11,000 RPM speed for heavy-duty work
- Integrated spindle lock can be adjusted without having to use a spanner
- Performs excellent at other applications like rust removal and polishing
- Can be used single-handedly with the safety trigger
- Non-slip grip on the rubberized handle
Cons:
- The one drawback would be that it heats up very quickly compared to other angle grinders. You’ll have to give it a short rest after continuous use for as little as 30 minutes.
7. K I M O. Cordless Angle Grinder for Wood
Last on our list of angle grinders for wood carving is the KIMO 20V Cordless Angle Grinder, a product that’s picked up good reviews worldwide for being a reliable, durable, and well-performing grinder for both professional and hobby use.
It’s not a single significant feature with this grinder, but more a combination of everything being right. This 20V KIMO grinder is cordless (we don’t have to tell you why that’s great for the third time) and brushless, ensuring long periods of smooth, stable operation.
The speed is pretty great, too: it stands at a solid 9,000 RPM, right between the hobby-use Litheli 20V Cordless Angle Grinder (8,250 RPM) and the professional-use Avid Power 7.5-amp Angle Grinder (11,000 RPM).
It comes with an upgraded cooling system that maintains a consistent 47° Celsius and an overcurrent protection measure that ensures your angle grinder won’t burn out anytime soon.
A neat little feature is that this KIMO Angle Grinder also comes with accessories: 10 pieces of sandpaper, two metal cutting wheels, two grinding wheels, and one wood-cutting wheel.
Pros:
- Robust cordless grinder that doesn’t sacrifice in RPM
- Ergonomic design with two-position adjustable handle
- Can be used to cut through materials like concrete and rebar
- Brushless construction keeps it running longer without overheating.
- The kit comes with extra accessories to ensure you’re set up.
- Soft start feature eliminates jerkiness.
Cons:
- Surprisingly, the arbor shaft isn’t ⅝” -11, but instead M14x2.0mm metric thread. Not that important, but you might have to buy an adapter down the line.
- KIMO is also a relatively new company with little to no track record.
Best Angle Grinder for Wood Carving Buying Guide
Choosing the right angle grinder can be a difficult process, especially if you are new to woodcarving. There are many different types of grinders on the market for all kinds of projects.
You will need a machine that is powerful enough to cut through hardwoods but lightweight enough not to cause fatigue while working. Here is what you need to check while picking an angle grinder for wood carving projects-
Power of the Grinder
The power of the grinder is measured in amps and will determine how quickly it can cut through wood.
A smaller angle grinder might not have a lot of torque to easily get through harder woods so you may need something more powerful.
If you are only going to be using your angle grinder for lighter projects, then a smaller one would work fine but if you plan on working with hardwood or other dense materials don’t settle for less.
Speed Settings
Most grinders come equipped with variable speed settings that allow users flexibility when cutting different types of material instead of having just two speeds: high and low.
This comes in handy because depending on what type of project you are doing, sometimes slower speeds work better than faster speeds.
For carving, having the ability to adjust the speed is a must in order to get clean and precise cuts.
Weight of the Grinder
The weight of the grinder is another important factor to consider when choosing one for woodcarving projects. You don’t want a grinder that is too heavy because it will cause fatigue while working and could also lead to accidents.
On the other hand, you don’t want a grinder that is too light either because it might not have enough power to get the job done.
Ideally, you want something that is lightweight but still has enough power to easily cut through hardwoods.
Ergonomics
When choosing a machine for wood carving, you also need to take ergonomics into consideration.
A grinder that is awkward to hold or doesn’t have a good grip on the front can cause accidents while working because it could slip easily.
It’s also important for your comfort level so you don’t develop blisters or other types of irritation from incorrect holding positions throughout your project.
Cordless vs Corded
Another thing to think about when researching the angle grinder for woodcarving is whether you want a corded or cordless one.
Cordless grinders are generally smaller and heavier. Because they don’t have any cords attached, it is easier to handle them but there could be times where batteries die while in use leaving you without an option.
The benefit of having a corded grinder is that it will always work as long as it has power; however, these can be a pain to work with as there may not be a power outlet everywhere for you!
Accessories for Carving
When looking for an angle grinder for wood carving, it’s important to also check and see if the model you are interested in comes with any accessories specifically designed for carving.
There are some that do come with helpful attachments like a v-shaped cutting guide or adapter that can help make your cuts more accurate. If the grinder doesn’t have any of these attachments, then you’ll need to purchase them separately which could be an added cost.
However, we recommend going with a machine that meets all other aspects as you can easily swap out the accessories later according to your needs.
Safety Features
Another thing to consider when choosing an angle grinder is whether it has any safety features.
Look for grinders that have a protective guard that will protect your hand from debris or accidental contact with the wheel, which can cause injury and damage if not covered properly.
Also, look at how easily you can replace blades because this could create another hazard if they aren’t handled correctly so having easy-to-replace ones are important as well.
Versatility
This is another key factor to consider when choosing the best angle grinder for woodcarving.
You don’t want a machine that is only good at one task, you want something that can do multiple things without having to switch out tools with a change in the settings on the machine itself.
Build Quality
Last but not least, the build quality of the angle grinder is important to consider. You want something that is durable and can withstand wear and tear over time so it doesn’t break down during your project.
It’s also helpful if the machine has a longer lifespan so you don’t have to replace it as often.
Related Questions:
How do you shape wood with an angle grinder?
The best way to shape wood with an angle grinder is to start from one end and shave off pieces from there using long strokes. The further down the body of wood you go, the thinner each cut becomes.
Once you get near where your final look needs to be, use shorter strokes. This will give it a more natural curve because wood naturally has some bend when going vertically up or imposing pressure on it horizontally because of gravity.
Can I use an angle grinder to carve wood?
Yes, you can! It’s best to cut the wood down in size before carving it, this will make it easier to handle and more likely for you to get a finished product that looks just how you want.
Is angle grinder good for woodworking?
An angle grinder can be a great tool for woodworking, but there are some things you need to keep in mind. First, make sure the grinder has a disc that is appropriate for wood. You also need to be careful not to apply too much pressure or you could damage the wood. Finally, always wear safety goggles when using an angle grinder.
What’s the difference between a grinder and a sander?
The main difference between a grinder and a sander is that they are generally designed for different tasks.
Grinders are designed to cut through the material instead of removing material. This makes grinders ideal for people who want to remove large amounts of material in order to expose the grain of the wood. Although specialized grinders are capable to cut, shape and carving different types of material.
Sanders, on the other hand, are designed to level out surfaces and smooth away light amounts of material in order to create a uniform surface. Sanders work well for people who want to clean up an untouched piece of wood.
Sanders typically have a lower speed than grinders and are used for lighter sanding tasks such as preparing surfaces for finishing. They have a softer pad that conforms to the surface more, which leads to less scratching. Sanders also come in random orbit sanders which move in random patterns and don’t cause swirl marks.
Final Verdict
Picking a winner isn’t too hard this time because while there were undoubtedly good products on this list, one overshadowed the rest when it came to the most critical factor: how the unit actually performs.
It’s the Litheli 20V Cordless Wood Carving Grinder!
Surprised to hear that one of the cheapest is also one of the best? While that’s not usually the case, this Litheli angle grinder came with the same features as some of the most expensive grinders here, all the while costing something about a third of what they cost!
It is cordless, but if you’re willing to put up with that, you have a solid product that will last for years and can take the punishment of regular use in the shop.