I want to start off by saying I am by no means an expert detailer and just know the general basics regarding a really good detail. With that said, I have these swirls in my paint, and they are mainly on my hood, roof, and trunk.

What is the most effective way of removing these swirls, preferably by hand, since I do not have a buffer (other than my lightning fast hands:D ). Do I need to invest in a mechanical buffer or is there a product I can use that will get rid of these swirls?

I've heard of 3M Imperial Hand Glaze, and I just recently used a Meguiars Swirl Remover by hand, with minimal results.

If the only really effective way to remove swirls is by a machine, what would you recommend to someone with no experience using a machine? I'm more apt to just pay a professional detailer to fix these swirls, but I figured if I can buy a machine and know I wont burn through my paint, I can polish the 5er whenever she really needs it, without burning a hole in my pocket.

So, :help me please.:D

You really can't remove swirls by hand. A machine is your best bet and worth the investment if you're going to use it a few times. I use the Porter Cable 7424 from Autogeek, I believe I bought some package from them that included the pads and everything. Very easy to learn how to use and you should get great results. As far as products to use on the pads there are several different swirl mark removers, it's mainly personal preference.

that porter cable is very used friendly, great for begineers to learn on not very powerfull so its not very easy to burn the paint like a rotary. Just check the paint with your hand often to make sure its not getting too warm.

im going to be needing to de-swirl my m sometime.. im going to go with the zaino abrasion liquid, and ill prolly have to pick up a good rotary or maybe a pc. the illegals at the carwash next to my shop all use rotarys and they are very good at getting nice results. however i believe they are probably more skilled in the thier use of rotary polishers... so i might just have to get a pc.

anyways. it takes alot of f-ing time.

You need a machine. If thats out of the question youre looking at "How do i conceal my swirls"

....That would involve products like 3M SMR and heavy glazes that will need constant reapplication.