What grit of sandpaper is ideal for quickly removing paint down to bare metal?

Using 36 grit sandpaper is ideal for quickly removing paint down to bare metal because it is very coarse, allowing for aggressive material removal. This type of sandpaper is designed for heavy-duty sanding applications, making it effective for stripping layers of paint quickly. The larger abrasive particles on 36 grit paper create a much rougher surface, which facilitates the rapid elimination of paint and other coatings.

In the context of collision repair and refinishing, when preparing a surface for painting or other repairs, achieving a bare metal substrate is crucial for proper adhesion and a smooth finish. Coarser grits like 36 grit are often the first step in this process, especially when a significant amount of material needs to be removed in a short period.

While the other grits have their specific uses—like fine finishing or smoothing out surfaces—their coarseness does not allow for the rapid removal of paint. Hence, they are better suited for different phases of the sanding process.