[Greg @ DU]

As the owner of a detailing website we are very fortunate to be able to test a wide variety of products from manufacturers. Rarely does a product grab my attention as much as the Flex buffer did. I've been looking for other variations of an orbital buffer so I was hoping this would be the answer. I had read outstanding reviews about the Flex line of tools across the board so my expectations for the buffer were definitely high. George did an excellent job of outlining our study with photos, so I thought I would share some insight on qualitative values related to the Flex buffer. I used the buffer on different panels than the ones outlined above in George's post.

At first Glance:
The buffer feels relatively light, while probably ever so slightly heavier than the PC. It feels very solid as any good buffer should. I'm extremely pleased with the location of the two grips, primarily the top one. My right hand is placed low, near the trigger and my left hand is above the pad (approximately 3.5 inches) so your hands are at 6 and 12. With the PC (no handle) and rotary buffers I typically have my hands in a similar but slightly different position. My right hand is typically towards the bottom of the buffer and my left hand is typically positioned directly on top of the spindle applying downward force. This leaves my hands at 6 and 12 but I'm far more likely to exert pressure more towards the bottom of the buffer. With the Flex design your hands are more evenly spaced out above and below the spindle so you are more likely to exert even pressure across the pad.

Turning the buffer on:
The buffer sounds about as loud as the PC, with less rattling. It feels far more powerful than the PC and almost impossible to bog down. When moving from speed (min) 1 - 6 (max) it doesn't increase in volume to the extent the PC does. I found it relatively easy to handle and move smoothly around the surface. It's slightly more challenging to use around trim, but manageable with a little care. I started off with the Power Gloss and a 6.5" Yellow Cutting Pad. I set the speed to 6 but I held the trigger down lightly to help me spread the product first, then I clenched the trigger tight for full power and locked it in. It worked the polish in so well that I stopped after four passes with the Flex because of how clear the polish looked. Typically with a PC I would have applied more pressure and done 6 - 10 passes to get the polish to look that thin and clear. The Flex easily delivered more cutting power in less time, I was thoroughly impressed. After removing the left over polish I was impressed at how well it removed the imperfections with minimal hazing. While on speed 6 it has a slight tendency to want to take off on you, like a rotary buffer, but not nearly to the same extent. When you position the buffer right and adjust your stance you can control it with ease.

Quick Summary:
Both the PC and Flex are fantastic in their own right. However after using the Flex I can't ever imagine polishing again with the PC, even when I'm pressed for time. The Flex can deliver more cutting power in less time and with minimal risks. I can't wait to use it on my personal vehicle and share it with some local detailing friends. I often describe the PC as a toy because just about anybody can use it and get good results. The Flex buffer is more like a tool that is better suited for those who are willing to put in a little more effort for improved results.

Let me know if you have any other questions about this buffer.

Greg @ DU