My reaction to belt sanders was the same as yours. I'd borrowed a
neighbor's contractor grade unit made it the 1960s and it was vicious.
Then, a few years ago, I bought a Ryobi BE-321 and it's one of my favorite
tools. Variable speed and a case that lets it be set down on the bench
upside down for use as a fixed sander.
http://www.ryobitools.com/index.php/.../tool/be321vs/

I prefer the electric block plane for making scarfs in plywood, primarily
because I think it leaves the pores open, but the belt sander is a must
have. Yes, by definition it is an abrasive stock removal tool, but the flat
sole and the variable speed allow quite small amounts to be removed.

Roger

http://home.earthlink.net/~derbyrm

"Lew Hodgett" wrote in message
ink.net...
Subject

Tool chosen depends on the size of the scarf.

I've use both a router and a power plane, each with it's own jig to make a
lot of scarfs on pieces less than about 6" wide.

If sheet goods are involved, then the Gougeon Bros have a neat attachment
for a circular saw.

I would do most anything to avoid a belt sander, they are strictly a PITA
except as an abrasive stock removal tool, IMHO.

Lew