The Industry Benchmark in Wet & Dry Sandpaper
Often referred to simply as “wet and dry sandpaper”, the Starcke Matador range sets the standard for professional finishing.
Unlike lower-grade sandpaper, Matador sheets provide:
- Consistent cutting action
- Reduced clogging during wet sanding
- Reliable scratch patterns for polishing stages
This makes them ideal for anyone requiring predictable, high-quality surface results.
991C vs 991A
Understanding the Backing
To optimise performance across the full grit range, Starcke uses two specialised backing types:
P60 - P1200 (991C Series)
- Slightly heavier C-weight paper
- More rigidity for flat surfaces and general sanding
- Better control during intermediate stages
P1500 – P7000 (991A Series)
- Ultra-flexible A-weight paper
- Designed for fine finishing and polishing
- Conforms easily to curves, edges, and delicate surfaces
This transition ensures you get the right balance of control and flexibility at every stage.
Typical Applications
Starcke Matador sandpaper is suitable for a wide range of professional and workshop uses:
- Automotive & Bodywork – Paint correction, primer sanding, clear coat finishing
- Metal Finishing – Refining aluminium, brass, and steel surfaces
- Woodworking – Denibbing lacquer and fine finishing
- Jewellery & Precision Work – Scratch removal before polishing
- Resins & Plastics – Acrylic finishing, 3D prints, and epoxy surfaces
Grit Guide
- 60 – 120 Grit → Material removal and shaping
- 150 – 320 Grit → General sanding and smoothing
- 400 – 800 Grit → Fine finishing and surface prep
- 1000 – 1500 Grit → Pre-polishing and refinement
- 2000 – 7000 Grit → Ultra-fine finishing and mirror preparation
Pro Tip:
Wet Sanding for Best Results
Using Matador sandpaper wet will:
- Reduce clogging (“loading”)
- Extend sheet lifespan
- Improve surface finish
- Minimise dust and heat
Add water (optionally with a drop of detergent) for optimal performance.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Starcke |
| Product Range | Matador (991 Series) |
| Abrasive Type | Silicon Carbide |
| Backing | 991C (C-weight) / 991A (A-weight) |
| Bonding | Fully Synthetic Resin |
| Sheet Size | 230mm x 280mm (9″ x 11″) |
| Grit Range | P60 – P7000 |
| Use | Wet & Dry (Waterproof) |
Related Products & Upgrades
For Ultra-Fine Finishing
If you need to go beyond P7000, consider Micro-Mesh sheets, which use a cushioned structure to achieve true mirror and optical finishes.
For Heavy-Duty Sanding
If your sanding is tearing standard paper, switch to cloth-backed sheets (emery cloth) from Starcke for maximum durability and strength.











