I have an X5 and love it.
I bought it new about 6 years ago. No problems whatsoever and I use it a lot (I make bows professionally).
I did have a 24" double drum Grizzly, but I wanted something took up a little less room in the shop, so I bought the X5. It's perfect. No regrets.
I actually think it's more precise than my old Grizzly sander (that cost more). It certainly runs smoother and quieter then my old Grizzly.
Nothing against Grizzly, I have whole shop full of their stuff and will probably buy more in the future when I need to, but the X5 is my preference for a thickness sander.
As far as online reviews, I've learned that you can't always go by them anyways.
For one, most people that take the time to post a review are doing so because they're unhappy with a product. They're mad and they want everyone to know it...lol
The majority of satisfied customers probably don't take the time to post their experiences (some do, but a lot do not).
And two, you have to keep in mind that some people lack common sense and expect too much out of a product.
For instance, you can't use a thickness sander like it's a planner. You have to take lighter passes with them.
You also have to take your time and set them up properly, making sure that everything is square, true, and running smoothly.
If you use it properly and take care of it, the X5 is very well suited for bowmaking.
I'd buy another one if I needed to.
