120 Grit Sanding Discs: The Perfect Balance Between Cutting and Smoothing

120 grit sanding discs offer the ideal middle ground—removing coarse scratches from rough sanding while preparing the surface for finer grits. Included in the 5-Inch 8-Hole Sanding Discs, Hook & Loop, Assorted Grit (50-Pack), these discs are essential for achieving a smooth, even surface before finish sanding.

Why 120 Grit is a Key Step

Too coarse for final prep and too fine for aggressive removal, 120 grit bridges the gap perfectly. It ensures deep scratches from 80 grit are removed, while still leaving enough bite for the next grit to work efficiently.

Best Uses for 120 Grit

• Furniture Refinement: Smooths table tops, chairs, and cabinetry after initial shaping.
• Paint Preparation: Creates a clean, even surface for primer and topcoats.
• Metal Surface Prep: Levels small imperfections before painting.
• Filler Leveling: Smooths cured filler or putty without tearing it out.

Tools & Setup

• 120 Grit Sanding Disc from the 50-Pack
• Random orbital sander with hook & loop backing pad
• Dust extraction system or shop vacuum
• Dust mask and safety glasses

Step-by-Step: Using 120 Grit

1. Start Right: Sand first with 80 grit to remove major imperfections.
2. Attach the Disc: Align the holes for maximum dust removal efficiency.
3. Work Evenly: Keep the sander moving to prevent over-sanding in one spot.
4. Check Often: Stop when scratches from the coarser grit are gone.
5. Move to 180 Grit: Continue refining the surface for final prep.

Pro Tips

• Vacuum and wipe between grits to avoid contaminating finer discs with coarse particles.
• Use light to moderate pressure for consistent results.
• Switch discs when cutting performance decreases.

Common Mistakes

• Skipping 120 Grit: Can leave visible swirl marks in the finish.
• Over-Sanding: May close wood grain and affect stain absorption.
• Using on Heavy Removal: Not aggressive enough for stripping paint or leveling.

FAQs

• Is 120 grit good for final sanding? For paint prep, yes. For stain or clear coat, follow with 180 or 220 grit.
• Can it be used on plastic? Yes, with very light pressure to avoid melting.
• Will it work for wet sanding? Only with discs rated for wet/dry use.

Watch 120 Grit in Action

If you want to transition from rough sanding to smooth, finish-ready surfaces, 120 grit is the step that ensures success. Equip yourself with the 5-Inch 8-Hole Sanding Discs (50-Pack) and achieve professional-quality results on every project.