Every now and then a new type of polisher is released that changes the way that paint correction is performed, and the RUPES LHR 21ES BigFoot Polisher was definitely one of them. Released back in 2010, and featuring a huge 21 mm oscillatory throw and an accompanying range of pads and polishes designed to complement this, the LHR 21ES demonstrated that dual action polishers could be much more capable than previously thought, and a viable alternative to traditional rotary polishers for professional use. Although the RUPES LHR 21ES BigFoot Polisher was a highly capable machine, RUPES continued to develop it over time based on feedback from the professional refinishing community, and released an improved version, the LHR 21II BigFoot Polisher (commonly referred to as the Mark 2), in 2015. This new model featured a more powerful motor that delivered 30% more torque and eliminated bogging down on curved surfaces. Furthermore, the durability of the anti-spinning cap was improved, and a number of strategically placed rubber-inserts were added to aid grip and support the machine in a stable position when not in use. These improvements were well received, and resulted in the LHR 15II taking over the mantle as the optimal choice for professional refinishers. Although the LHR 21II went on to become widely acknowledged as a best in class tool, RUPES continued to refine it behind the scenes, and have now (in late 2018) released its successor; say hello to the LHR 21III BigFoot Polisher!

The RUPES LHR 21III BigFoot Polisher (which will no doubt soon become commonly referred to as the Mark 3) improves upon its predecessor in a number of subtle ways, all linked to the quality of the user experience. For starters, the ergonomics have been improved, with a non-slip rubberised head for better control and rubberised inserts in the rear handle for better feel, and an additional non-marking tool rest for better stability when the machine is not in use. In addition, the speed controls have been improved, via the inclusion of a new speed selection dial and a new progressive trigger. The new electronic speed selection dial allows for deliberate and precise adjustment of the top speed of the polisher, without requiring the user to move his or her hands; only a subtle roll of the thumb is required instead. The new progressive trigger acts like a throttle to control speeds within the maximum range set by the speed dial, and thus allows the user to make speed adjustments on the fly for better control and precision. With these improvements in mind, who is the RUPES LHR 21III BigFoot Polisher ideal for? Well, given its gigantic 21 mm throw and that it uses a relatively large fixed-size backing plate (150 mm) that only accepts the largest versions of the various pads available in the BigFoot Random Orbital Polishing System, the answer is professional refinishers who regularly need to correct large areas of paint to a very high standard in as little time as possible. Time is money for professional users, and investing in a RUPES LHR 21III BigFoot Polisher quickly pays off. RUPES have raised the proverbial bar yet again!