Rotary buffers and orbital buffers, like the Porter Cable 7424, are both great tools and essential to any detailing professional or enthusiast. Applying a polish is the primary reason detailers turn to using a buffer. Most polishes contain cutting particles (or abrasives) designed to remove an ultra fine layer of clear coat. Polishes remove fine scratches, swirls, oxidation, water and other common surface imperfections. Imperfections in the clear coat cause light to fragment which creates a dull shine. Removing these imperfections allows light to pass more directly through the clear coat, thus giving you a deeper reflection and brighter reflection. Polishing your paint is generally the step that can produce the most dramatic improvement in the overall finish of your paint.

Both orbital and rotary buffers are typically used with a velcro backing plate that adheres to foam pads with velcro backings. The foam pads are available with varying textures designed to help you achieve different levels of pressure and heat. The denser the pad, the more cutting ability it will have. More porous pads are softer and designed for applying sealants and waxes. It is important to match the appropriate pad to the product you are using.

The horror stories about rotary buffers can be true because rotary buffers are difficult to use for beginners. With the proper training and experience the rotary buffer can be an extremely effective tool. Rotary buffers spin continuously in one direction at very high speeds and generate a tremendous amount heat. This allows the buffer to polish out deep imperfections enabling you to restore the clear coat to like new condition. This power is what also makes the rotary buffer dangerous in the hands of those without experience. If you leave a rotary buffer on the same part of your paint it can burn the paint in just seconds. Also, on areas that have a lip, like the trunk lid, it is easy to have the edge of the pad nick the top of the rear bumper to leave you with a burn mark. Rotary buffers are so powerful that I only recommend them for applying polishes. Using a rotary buffer is generally more tiring because it requires more effort and it’s slightly heavier than a typical orbital buffer. You must hold this buffer with two hands at all times.

Orbital buffers move in a random orbit which is designed to replicate a hand buffing motion. This oscillating motion generates far less heat and is very clear coat safe. Even with the strongest polish and pad combinations detailers have a difficult time damaging the paint beyond repair when using the Porter Cable 7424. The Porter Cable 7424 is one of the highest quality orbital buffers available to detailers. It has quickly become the favorite tool of many weekend detailers and professionals alike. A quality random orbital buffers like the Porter Cable 7424 can produce up to 6,000 orbits per minute (OPM’s). The Porter Cable 7424 is powerful enough to break down polishes effectively, but not risk damaging the paint. This pressure is important because it helps work polishes in to the clear coat to effectively remove swirls, fine scratches, oxidation and other light imperfections. You should be able to remove the majority of light scratches and surface imperfections with this buffer. Orbital buffers are great for applying polishes, glazes, sealants and waxes. The Porter Cable 7424 can be used with two hands or one and has an available side handle.

Both tools are great but it’s important to use the one that best fits your needs. The rotary buffer is a great option for anyone who is willing to take the time to practice and refine their skills. If you truly want to remove all or most of the surface imperfections in your paint then this may be the buffer for you. If you are pursuing a profession in detailing this is a great tool to know how to use that will help differentiate your business. If you prefer a tool this is still very effective and user friendly an orbital buffer may better fit your needs. If you want to avoid unnecessary risks or if you’re looking for an all purpose buffer I recommend the versatile Porter Cable 7424 orbital buffer.