Is 4 peak HP the same as a 4 HP motor?

No. Peak HP is a maximum developed-power rating, not continuous output. The actual motor draws 8 amps at 120 volts, and airflow is 85 CFM with 66 inches of water lift.

Can it pick up water and sawdust?

Yes. It is a wet/dry vacuum. Use the foam wet filter for liquid pickup and the high-efficiency cartridge filter for dry debris like sawdust.

How does it compare with a 12-gallon shop vacuum?

It is lighter and easier to move, but the 6-gallon tank fills faster and the 1-7/8-inch hose moves less bulky debris than the 2-1/2-inch hose on most 12-gallon models.

What comes in the box?

A 7-foot by 1-7/8-inch kink-resistant hose, two extension wands, a utility nozzle, a floor brush/squeegee nozzle, a high-efficiency cartridge filter and a foam wet filter.

Does it work as a blower?

Yes. The vacuum converts to a blower for outdoor debris such as leaves and grass clippings.

What replacement filters does it take?

It uses a high-efficiency cartridge filter for dry pickup and a foam wet filter for liquids. Vacmaster lists the VJFF fine-dust cartridge filter as a compatible option.