buffers

[daveg_vtr]

are they worth it. an is it better to do by hand or buffer?

[ChrisJ]

Buffers are very good, you can get a great finish using them providing you get the right one, and you know how to use them. Can be deadly in the wrong hands.

[PolishedBliss]

Dual action machine polishers like the Porter Cable 7424 are awesome tools, and the finish you can get with them far exceeds that which can be achieved by hand. They are without doubt an essential bit of kit for any enthusiast in my opinion - I could not do what I do without mine. Rotary machine polishers on the other hand are professional tools that can give even better results, but can equally remove too much paint very quickly. I advise enthusiasts to steep clear of rotaries, and go down the Porter Cable route - much safer, and still superb results.