I believe this is an age old question without a true answer that fits all. All the above are great answers but I feel the trial and error aspect with your own experience best fits the bill. I have used pretty much all of the above and its all about what feels good in your hand and what works for you. What you are working on, all are treated different and different applications work in specific areas. Wire brushes work, flap disc work, different grades of sandpaper, air or electric, grinders, grinders with this , grinders with that, dipping, sandblasting all work. The amount of cash or lack of and the desire to do yourself all factor in. In my eyes do what you feel as being comfortable for you. Get some hands on at your local trade schools/BOCES or tech schools and believe in what your Stovebolt comrades say. Years ago there were members here MartinSr and todays MP&C all with many years in restoration work with a multitude of experience and great websites you can follow their projects. They and members here have helped me immensely. And I thank dearly!!
Dan
