Paint Polishing by Hand VS Machine. What's Better?

Have you ever debated whether to compound by hand or machine and what the difference might be? Not sure if you want to spend the extra money to purchase a polisher and if the convenience is worth the price? In this episode, we discuss how long hand polishing vs machine polishing takes and how each side looks after each step. It is possible to hand polish your car, but is it worth your time and effort? Only you can decide :) Hope you enjoy!
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Disclaimer:
Due to factors beyond the control of AMMO NYC, Larry Kosilla, and Make Rain Productions, we cannot guarantee against improper use or unauthorized modifications of this information. AMMO NYC, Larry Kosilla, and Make Rain Productions assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. Use this information at your own risk. AMMO NYC, Larry Kosilla, and Make Rain Productions recommends safe practices when working on vehicles and or with tools seen or implied in this video. Due to factors beyond the control of AMMO NYC, Larry Kosilla, and Make Rain Productions, no information contained in this video shall create any expressed or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage, or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or from the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not AMMO NYC, Larry Kosilla, nor Make Rain Productions. Video and Content are owned by Make Rain Productions © 2021

[@95Jpollard]

It takes longer to do it by hand but honestly when it comes time to wax my truck I prefer to do it by hand. It's just an enjoyable time for me, just the repetition and flow of the movement takes my mind off everything and all my struggles and I'm just in the moment for those 5 hours. Thought about buying a rotary tool but never did because the results are pretty similar but using it would take away from the pleasure of doing it by hand. I'm sure it also feels more gratifying doing it by hand than doing it with the rotary too. Just my opinion for myself

[@chrisoo8998]

Yeh I got machines too but I know what you mean by hand more enjoyable

[@chazmuska]

How hard do you press on the paint when you do it by hand?

[@nathansobeck1077]

@@chazmuskau don’t need to press hard when applying wax. Although after it dries it might take some elbow grease to buff off

[@richardvacanti9428]

I also enjoy waxing by hand it’s almost therapeutic, especially if your car is clean, and in good shape

[@jeremyvelazquez8600]

With some music and a cold beer 🤙

[@giosanz6862]

I AM AFRAID OF USING THE MACHINE, I DON'T KNOW HOW MUCH PRESSURE TO PUT SO I DON'T DAMAGE THE PAINT.. NICE VIDEO..

[@mingthemerciless6855]

Doing both techniques has the same effect, pride in your car. Very satisfying.

[@kepler1175]

Love how you talked about why hand polishing changed, after this vid gonna watch all the studio videos.

[@John5ive]

Larry, I hope you don't get tired of hearing how great your videos are. I appreciate that you take the time to teach and show the differences between techniques

[@AviationAndFSX]

My God I've been waiting for years for this video and its finally out! And it was amazing, thanks for making things crystal clear once again Larry!

[@NESherv]

I don't know what I'd do without the invaluable guidance and resources that you've put out there for us, Larry. If you opened a detailing school, I'd enroll in a heartbeat.

[@ali_a1805]

Watching the progress of the new facility on Instagram, can’t wait to see the finished result!

[@lotsuvfun]

The light artifact you see with the hand polishing method is due to the direction of polishing. The glare will always be perpendicular to the direction of the polish. If you want to test this smudge your phone camera with your finger vertically then point at a light and you'll see a horizontal light glare/artifact. Then repeat again horizontally and you'll notice a vertical glare. This is true for any direction you wipe. The machine mitigates this by obviously going in all directions both radially and vertical/horizontally. Also, I recently got hooked on your videos so I went out and bought a small detailing kit of my own, I detailed my car this past weekend and can't be happier with the results. Love your videos and the way you explain things! Subscribed!

[@GoebelsDetailshop78]

Awesome video ammo, over the years I’ve learned a lot from watching you . I was the head detailer at Porsche in Destin Florida and I brought my skills to the dealership but I left Porsche to go full time with my mobile detailing business, a lot of my client have Porsche’s and I notice you love Porsche. But anyways lol I’m just ever were with my comment but keep uploading

[@jacksoni349]

Perfect timing on this video. I have a 2019 Golf R in white and as I was changing my license plates (sitting next to the bumper) I noticed someone had definitely given my bumper a love tap. Luckily no dents/dings/scratches but definitely something to disturb the paint.

[@dominiccah]

I literally have been searching for videos on this topic since a couple of days ago, and then you make it the newest video after a month 🙏

[@evolusd]

Watching this in Nov 2023, stoked at how far your channel has come. Best car care storyteller on YT!

[@teslamr7333]

Congrats on the new facility. Its great to have you back!

[@1stfrompuertorico568]

Yes, definitely I remember the days when I helped my dad and grandfather compounding and polishing by hand. I still do it only on headlights or when out of electrical power. Thanks for your videos. Xoxo from Puerto Rico 👍🇵🇷

[@hamzah766]

Ammo NYC best at showing how to details Chrisfix best at showing how to vids about cars

[@DeeZeeGR]

Honestly those too are amazing at what they do

[@EIM2307]

With rebuilding wrecked cars GOONZQUAD are my heros!!

[@redeyedfreaks]

Artesian level cosmetic work vs mechanical maintenance from the most overqualified "DIY" guy ;)

[@kayzuchoyt3320]

Collab??

[@pookiepooh]

Chrisfix is an amateur though.

[@deerussum2819]

Thanks Larry for talking a bit about the history of polishing as it relates to the changes in paint over the years. Good video for me as a newby to car detailing.

[@DanubisOFS]

Awesome video. Even thought I already knew that machine is better, the amount of details you put in your video and the quality is pretty nice and you always learn something new watching your videos.! Splendid job!

[@i.am.adrian]

Stoked to see that new facility and the build video for it, looks amazing!

[@Gringo74.]

Hello my brother, good morning, I hope you are very well in this quarantine that grieves us all so much, you are a genius, I love your work and I follow you in full, I congratulated you on your KZbin channel, I learn a lot with you. BIG hug from Argentina. GENIUS 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻😁👍🏻

[@herrejossesdaniel6254]

I love your videos! so glad to hear that you will be publishing more videos sooner. I think we all understand that short break due to construction.

[@fendergibs]

I like how you explain why things look different.

[@rickbaker4571]

Great info as always. Thanks for bringing us along!!

[@sabrinasanders4741]

Man is it good to have you back on the air waves! Been needing my detailing fix. :)

[@ShinyFenders]

Congrats on the new shop Larry, it looks amazing so far.

[@LN-vs8yc]

Larry ive only started becoming interested in cleaning my car correctly in thd last year and i must say im no professional detailer but ive picked up a lot of professional tips from you... the fact that this content is free is amazing and the one of the reasons i watch you all the time. Keep up the fantastic work man😎

[@coreykononchuk]

Oh hell yeah Larry, very excited for you; that new facility looks fantastic!! I finally graduated from hand polishing to machine polishing after picking up a 6" DA recently; what a gamechanger!

[@jdisdetermined]

Welcome to the addiction.. there is no going back from here.. 😁👍✌

[@soupdancer17]

2 step correction by hand?! You’re a legend Larry! And there’s now great entry level DA machines for under $200

[@maceldolaimy4944]

Great video like always larry. I just did my whole mustang by hand last week. TBH it was tedious, but I enjoyed spending time with the car while enhancing the paint. It doesn't get rid of all of the paint defect, like you said. But it enhanced the finish big time. Another benifit is knowing that I'm not gonna run the clear coat low and can to this once or twice a year.

[@sipzter]

You're such a wildman!! I love how into it you are. Been bringing it to us all for years - so Thank you. Be safe Stay well and can't wait to see your new facility.

[@chuckwalla2967]

I went back to polishing/waxing by hand. Except for large flat surfaces like the hood, it's actually faster and easier doing it by hand. Way more maneuverable and accurate around mirrors, tight areas, curvatures and plastic trims you want to avoid.

[@johnh4639]

Another great Vid. New setup looks ace 👍🏼

[@erwinjonesalumbro6926]

recommended channel. i do a lot of DIY on my car and you guide a lot. thanks and more vids ahead once your facility is ok

[@05AcuraRSXtypeS]

Larry, comon bro wash that polyepartic floor... You inspired me to build my dream garage. I had floor done after watching your garage video 30 times... Thank you for what you do. Cant wait for more videos out of your new studio. So happy for you.

[@johnbrown3951]

A very interesting watch. I am passionate about detailing and would like to machine polish and even went for a lesson with a professional but didn't enjoy the process so gave up quite quickly which I kind of regret. I will maybe try it by hand on my own cars in the spring time as it is still snowing here in Scotland. Thanks for the inspiration to give it a go by hand as my cars could probably do with being clayed (gave that up as as well if not polishing after) as well rather than just using fallout remover & Tar & Glue remover plus a pre wax cleanser before my sealants and waxes.

[@hendrikjan9116]

how did you know that i was thinking about doing it by hadn lol. awsome thing to see that you will come with an amazing workshop and vids every week =D

[@andydionisio6593]

Great video, learned something which I can use to improve how I compound, polish and wax my car.

[@andreassakkas7234]

Thanks for another great video. The 3/4 hours I spend polishing/waxing by hand is therapeutic for me!

[@kylemcatee503]

Obsessed with your videos man. Can’t wait for the new shop to be ready

[@jimmieromero8181]

Buying a DA and hex pads were the best thing I ever did a long time ago.

[@rochsavoie8065]

Same ever since I got 5 inch da and a 3 inch da. I notice I was marring the paint on really soft paint by hand.

[@lockergr]

How did you learn to use it? All I have is KZbin helping me.

[@jimmieromero8181]

lockergr test panels and youtube. But you learn the right pad combination, compound polish combination, etc when you start to use it. The machine does the work pretty much other than putting light pressure. What you need to watch out for is how to tell when a compound or polish is done being used. Typically you look for a “flash” or haze in the product as you are using the DA

[@MrMarko302]

My God I've been waiting for years for this video and its finally out! And it was amazing, thanks for making things crystal clear once again Larry!

[@Rolfbhag83]

Another banger video! Thanks man!

[@hazindu]

I usually use a 4" pad for hand polishing around trim and other areas the 6" machine doesn't fit in well, and it gets pretty good results.

[@sparko2012]

Is it 4 inch polishing pad you use?

[@esschuele6336]

@@sparko2012 great question

[@sparko2012]

@@esschuele6336 something has been edited or deleted out of the thread.

[@briank.3539]

Hello and thank you for this video. I am of that "generation" that grew up being taught to compound, polish and wax by hand. Until I saw your video, I was going to do all my vehicles by hand, no longer. Questions: What DA is the best for doing all three stages? What size backing is suitable? What brands are worth their weight and which to stay away from? Do you recommend a cordless or corded DA? Thanks again for the video.

[@solocamo3654]

I was afraid to be aggressive by hand and my results weren't great. But you put way more pressure by hand so I'll give it a go. Though I do have dual action polisher, it's just not ideal as it's a larger one.

[@shawnmckenzie1786]

Nice job. Thanks. Good luck with the construction.

[@sd-zj2dq]

always your videos are very informative and amazing

[@wyattoneable]

Excellent information Larry.

[@iamjtbe]

Take your time on getting us videos! Worth it for the new place! Thanks for all your advice over the years.

[@AMMO-NYC]

Thank you I'm stressing out thinking about it

[@srilemobitelsrile8809]

@@AMMO-NYC Did you found solution for cooling computer room?

[@AMMO-NYC]

@@srilemobitelsrile8809 going to put an exhaust fan

[@AsapRockyOG]

Really great video and I love your explanation

[@sunrise_sunshine]

Thank you for making this video, hope this will help me get rid off some small scratches from my new car.... any suggestion which handtool to buy and it would be great great if you make a video about complete detailing about car from washing, rubbing and waxing and shining the car in one video... if possible.

[@seansean8008]

great video and information. so glad I bought my polisher

[@zackjack952]

Omg U gave me all the informations , that I was looking for thank you so so so much

[@derekbemiss6614]

Great video as always! Thanks for the kind words. Can't wait to start playing in the new "Detailers Dream Building" !

[@lwwahlert]

Terrific explanation Larry.

[@reaper727.]

I’ve always washed and detailed my own cars, but I’m a total newbie when it comes to machine compound/polishing. I’ve seen ads for Meguiar’s correction compound and ultimate compound and wondering if you’ve used these, and if so, how they compare to m105/205 etc. Or if they have their own specific purposes. Thanks!

[@michaelnguyen-kypreos1988]

Great vid and well explained iv learnt alot from this thankyou .cant help that im losing sleep over that tape mark in the middle hahah keep up with the vids

[@ternovyy]

Brilliant video! Thank you!

[@Justin666i]

Im having great results with a DeWalt 12v cordless, Amazon pads, and Turtle Wax conventional waxes including scratch remover and polishing compound. Actually, probably the best results short of paint or color correction via wet sanding or other methods. This is on a 18 year old vehicle with original paint. The product isn't as important as the process. You can get great results with cheap products.

[@thegodparents9621]

I could just imagine how epic his building is gonna be

[@DASH-NZ]

Good to see you again.

[@crBudgetWatches]

I always thought detailing my car was very tiresome and time consuming until I started looking at it as a good workout which is an added benefit.

[@corradotox]

Interesting historical perspective, thanks! When did the change in paint hardness happened approximately? I have a 17y.o. BMW and I was wondering if hand polishing is worth the effort

[@bondy284]

Many Thanks Larry👍Greetings from 🇦🇺

[@rodgercostello9814]

Great video and advice thanks

[@Kwerrauque]

Thank you for making this video

[@lockergr]

Do you then have a video about how to use a DA polisher, and which one is best for absolute beginners who have never seen anyone use one, except on KZbin? I was looking at the Griot's G9. What are the best compounds and polishes for total newbies? I don't have any background in this, but my paint looks like junk from sitting outside in the elements for 13 years and never having any type of decontamination, short of what I've done lately from learning about all of this teaching myself through KZbin videos. People like you are really helping us all out significantly. Thank you!

[@Mityob67]

Thanks for a great video.

[@GDavis49]

Surprised with the results from the hand polishing. Great tips.

[@rollinwithrouzy7902]

Just placed another order on your website! Question: Do I have to worry about using the Hydrate Pint Moisturizer, after getting my truck machine polished? I plan on getting it polished soon. I just wanted to know if I have to worry about anything?

[@mobiletechrx7909]

Awesome video!

[@wateringcan4522]

Hi Larry. Thank you for the great video very informative

[@everythingbutthekitchensin951]

That small glimpse of that future detail spot made me nuttt.

[@IMS13321]

Hi, amazing detail and info - thanx probably a rookie question but what is Compound and then Polish ? Are they two different things ? If yes, which compound and then polish (brands) did you use ? And if there’s any other similar brands for compound only and polish only . I use Formula 1 Polishing compound and then formula 1 wax - step 1 and 2 basically, Am I doing it wrong please guide ?

[@AutOdometer]

Learned alot thanks

[@rclarkrep100]

What Orbital buffer should I get? Looking at Groit 6" and Dewalt. Groit looks easier. Any other recommendations on buffers? Thanks for the education on clear coat vs old paint. Made total sense! Looking to start part time detailing friends and family.

[@allanknight843]

Damnit man, I’m so happy that you’re still on KZbin. For the last 8 yrs, I’ve owned a Tacoma. I just bought a 2020 Dodge Charger scatpack. Now, I’m all excited again about detailing my car. There are some guys on KZbin that know their stuff but no one has your raw talent and skill. Allan

[@edgardocapinpin1974]

Hi! What is the best and budget dual action polisher for beginners? Thank you!

[@MrBulinn]

Hey Larry, is it possible to polish off small scratches from windscreens? I have couple of mark from small “rocks/dust” being dragged by the wipers. Was wondering if it’s possible to remove it

[@theearms6338]

We are rooting for you larry! Cannot wait to see the new building. Every detailer has that ultimate fantasy garage 😆

[@srilemobitelsrile8809]

He has another AMMO chanel where he shows new garage.

[@ruslanmagerramov7003]

I tried to only polish my e39 touring because at this time i dont had a polisher and it took me about 2 days. I have to say that it was very hard to do, but the result was great.

[@ryanTDG]

You the man Larry!

[@adelaideautowashes]

Just a question, would you have an easier time hand polishing if you did it on single stage paint?

[@user-pwfus]

I just use a very mild clay bar for removing contaminants then Pure Carnauba wax with amazing results, I find when using compounds it actually adds more scratches.

[@joeg9339]

You should do a video on different brands of buffer/polisher machine. What to look for when buying one.

[@Jesus-en2jl]

Hey man quick question what do u recommend when you buy a used car how to clean the interior to get rid of smell and virus

[@scottc9892]

you mentioned that the clear coat prevents the paint from oxidizing, with the new cars today can the top coat turn a bit white/hazy from oxidation or is that eliminated with new car paint process today? and if it does get oxidized is the actual clearcoat getting oxidized or the paint underneath? also are you actually taking some of the clear coat off with say a 1 step or 2 step paint correction with a DA polisher? thanks for your time

[@jean-bernarddallaire3390]

Hi, good infos and tricks Small question, can we polish by hands the windshield ? Thanks

[@johannkuhn5685]

Great video. But I have to say, you can (and nowadays do) get single stage urethane. So single stage paint can be just as hard as clearcoat. In fact I'm currently repainting my old car with single stage urethane.

[@Sir.NathanDrake]

Interested to see the difference between a battery powered and normal polishing machine. I don’t have easy access to a wall outlet. Love this video. I have performed the clay + 3 step process last year by hand. Clay, clean, polish and finish with wax. But was not happy enough after spending hours. I’m thinking to buy a machine and add the step to applying compound as well to be able to remove the big scratches now I have seen this video.

[@jessicabecause3717]

Same here, it's not that I dont want to use a polisher. It's that I simply can't. Don't have 500 dollars to cough up for a battery powered polisher yet either.

[@stevoeight]

Wondering what video and audio gear your using in your videos? Looks and sounds good for it being in a garage.

[@lannyluckyj3227]

Can't wait to see the new place

[@ECXTD]

After doing it by hand and having the halos still in the paint if you wanted to remove them with a da would you use compound and polish or just polish?

[@ereed42]

Good morning Kevin where can I purchase the white DA polisher you are using

[@stewarthoffman7165]

Question I see you use lot of different machines to do your detail on many car. can you do the same thing without using a machine just two hands and buckets of water? Thanks

[@nicksdragon6929]

Great video, which is your trademark. Quick question who makes your"White" polisher?

[@Tugaida]

Hi, I bought 2 microfiber manual pads and Rupes Uno protect. I want to do by hand 2 doors. Do you think 2 pads are enough? Do I have to clean them regularly while I'm working on these 2 doors? Thanks!

[@winros]

Do you think it would work on my 1985 four-door Volare? And if I do decide to get a buffer which is the best one to get?

[@wglenn174]

Clay works great in removing stuff stuck to your clear coat, even old wax, road grime- etc

[@olalekanmabekoje5871]

I love your tools. They are most free-handed. i mean they don't necessarily electrical but mechanical e.g. the form sprayer. How can I get them.

[@Mopar300S]

I recently bought a polisher so I can remove swirls and some scratches. I recently did the compound by hand and polished by hand but it wasn’t as good as it should’ve been. Am I good to proceed with a polish & wax to remove the swirls?