I have always liked the tactile feed back of hand sanding a bowl or spindle at the lathe. However, I recognize that it just lengthens out a project tremendously when a little judicious power sanding can help overcome the rougher spots my gouge technique leaves. I once saw Rex Burningham use a power solution that is somewhat expensive, but made a lot of sense.
From Craft Supplies, I bought some velcro arbor-mounted sanding pads (2" and 3" diameter) plus assortment of pre-cut and furred sanding discs that adhere to the pads. The only problem I have experienced with this system is that the discs tend to come off, especially in the finer grades.
The Sioux Close-quarter Drill appears identical in every way to the Milwaukie, which costs a bit more. They are probably built in the same manufacturing plant.
Sioux, Inc. 8000ES 3/8" Close-quarter Drill 3.5 amp, 115V motor, 0-1300 RPM Ball and roller bearings Paddle switch 55° angled chuck 31/2 pounds cost $139 www.Amazon.com
In addition to this sanding system, I also make some use of a stand-mounted combination belt and disc sander from Delta.
Delta 31-460 4" Belt/6" Disc Sander 1/3 hp motor, 3100 RPM 36" x 4" belt adjusts from horizontal to vertical with fence Table and miter guage for disc 21/4" dust-collection port cost $109 Harbor Freight 3491 Mission Oaks Boulevard Camarillo, California 93010 (800) 444-3353 www.harborfreight.com (Also from Amazon.com at a slightly higher price and from most home and tool centers for around this same price.)