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I really enjoy the FP process but due to bad shoulder and elbow I can't seem to get enough pressure to get a hard enough finish.
I have a Stew Mac buffer and menzera compounds.Would using this be advsable?
Potential problems?
Thanks in advance,
Peter

I most always buff my final french polish finishes a little bit with the fine Menzerna from StewMac. Be careful though. I find it heats the finish up very quickly and will soften it. I get the best results after getting my french polish to about 90% of where I want it to be with the pad and "spiriting off" and then allowing it to cure for several weeks. The harder you let it get the better it will buff out. If I have any trouble spots I will hit it lightly with some 1200 just before buffing. Keep it moving and don't go to slow with the instrument.

Best of luck.

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"We might not be big but we sure are slow"

What rpm does your buffer run at?
I don't actually have mine yet but is on its way.
1725 rpm motor but not sure what size pully to put on it.

I've found the 3M compounds work best. Dry sand with 1500, hit the buffer. Have yet to burn through one.

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Instagram: @jfrenchluthier
Web: https://www.jfrenchguitars.com/

I tried an experiment a few weeks ago. I used my Porter Cable random action orbital sander with the thick sponge pad and the terry cloth cover. I used it on a slow setting. I was quite impressed with the results. Only one session that way so far, but I will use it again.

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Expectation is the source of all misery; comparison the thief of joy.
http://redrivercanoe.ca/

IME between 800 and 1200rpm for "soft" finishes like varnish, shellac or even lacquer. Faster and the wheel becomes harder, so chances to burn/melt the finish increase. Too slow is no good either as it won't buff fast enough, and staying longer on the same spots will burn the finish as well. Try to get a step pulley for the buffer to change your speed.

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Laurent Brondel
West Paris, Maine - USA
http://www.laurentbrondel.com/

good tip on the step pully.
Thank you all for responding.
Peter