120 Grit Sanding Discs: Reliable Medium Sanding for Smooth Transitions

120 grit sanding discs provide the perfect middle ground between aggressive stock removal and fine finishing. Available in the 5-Inch 8-Hole Sanding Discs, Hook & Loop, Assorted Grit (50-Pack), they are essential for woodworking, paint prep, and metal surface leveling.

Why 120 Grit is a Go-To Sanding Stage

This medium grit balances efficiency with smoothness, removing scratches from 80 grit while preparing the surface for finer sanding. It’s one of the most versatile grits for both professional shops and DIY projects.

Best Uses for 120 Grit

• Furniture Prep: Smooths rough surfaces before finish sanding.
• Cabinet Projects: Prepares panels for paint or primer.
• Metal Work: Levels and cleans surfaces before primer application.
• Wood Projects: Evens out plywood, MDF, and hardwood boards.

Tools & Setup

• 120 Grit Sanding Disc from the 50-Pack
• Dual action or random orbital sander with hook & loop pad
• Dust extraction or shop vacuum
• Safety gear: goggles, dust mask, hearing protection

Step-by-Step: Using 120 Grit

1. Begin with 80 Grit: Strip coatings or level rough surfaces first.
2. Attach 120 Grit Disc: Ensure proper alignment with the sander’s holes.
3. Sand with Overlapping Passes: Work methodically without pressing down hard.
4. Check for Uniformity: Surface should feel smoother with no coarse scratches.
5. Advance to 180 Grit: Refine for a finish-ready surface.

Pro Tips

• Vacuum between grit changes to prevent grit contamination.
• Keep the sander moving to avoid swirl marks.
• Replace discs as soon as efficiency decreases.

Common Mistakes

• Skipping 120 Grit: Can leave coarse scratches visible under finishes.
• Stopping at 120: Not fine enough for finish sanding alone.
• Too Much Pressure: May burnish wood instead of cutting cleanly.

FAQs

• Can 120 grit be the final sanding grit? Works for paint prep, but finer grits are better for stains and clear finishes.
• Is it suitable for metal? Yes, for leveling before priming or painting.
• Can I use it on drywall? Not recommended—use finer grits for drywall finishing.

Watch 120 Grit in Action

If you need a balance of cutting action and smooth results, 120 grit sanding discs are the answer. Stock the 5-Inch 8-Hole Sanding Discs (50-Pack) to handle versatile projects with ease and precision.