Bosch 1297DK 2 Amp 1/4-Sheet Sander with Dust Canister

in less than 1 year the tool is useless. the paper slips out. the rubber gets soft and breaks into pieces (melts actually, they used cheap materials on that or because of the vibration).

I bought BOSCH because it looked nice and the locking mechanism seemed very easy. BUT in less than a year the holding rubber broke on both ends. and the paper slips out after few seconds.

don't buy it or tested it out in you 30 day allowance. (90 at HD)
..AND the filter doesn't stay locked in place also. it is frustrating to use this tool. - believe me - I like Bosch tool because but this is trash. looks cool but...

Unit seems to works nicely but seems to lack some muscle?
Do like Bosch tools so I maybe asking to much from the little guy?
Still---nice finishing tool---Brian

Like other here have said, the rubber bar wore out after about 20 hours of use and would no longer hold the paper. I have ordered 6 of the bars from the Bosch service facility. I'm not sure if this will be the total solution but if it works then it is worth it because of the ease of changing paper with the sheet lock system. The cost to order was $1.15 plus about $7 shipping. I will update this after the parts arrive.

I really like this little tool. It's a high-end tool with a bit higher price along, but after borrowing my friend's hard-to-control B&D palm sander with crazy vibration and the finger pinching lever, I've opted to spend more. Glad I am for the decision! Like many here pointed out, changing the sand paper is really easy and it's very very well balanced. I basically let it do its job while holding it over surfaces.

I have to admit to my Dad that he's right; you should buy good tools even if it costs more. They help you do the job simply better and make it more enjoyable. The extra bucks spent is soon forgotten.

Others have said what I would about the design improvements over other sanders but they should have glued the rubber block that tightens the sand paper. Easy fix though, just add some weatherstrip cement or liquid nails to the front rubber pad to keep it from slipping off the metal holder. My older De Walt is now second string. I hated having to play around with tightening the sandpaper each time on that sander.
Amazon should sell the vac hose connector accessory but as of this date they do not, only 3rd party sellers here where s&h is too much for the item. You need to buy the Bosch ,it is a special type connector. Wish Bosch kept it made in the USA but mine was made in Malaysia.