The grit number is the size of the abrasive grain: the lower the number, the coarser the grain and the faster it cuts. Work from coarse to fine, skipping no more than one step at a time.
| Grit | Grade | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| 24 – 36 | Extra coarse | Heavy stock removal, weld grinding, rust and paint removal |
| 40 – 60 | Coarse | Shaping, blending, removing deep scratches |
| 80 – 120 | Medium | General sanding, smoothing, preparing for paint |
| 150 – 180 | Fine | Final sanding of bare metal and wood |
| 220 – 240 | Very fine | Sanding between coats |
| 280 – 400 | Extra fine | Finish sanding, light polishing |
| 600 and up | Super fine | Polishing and buffing |