Which rotary tool?

[HDoc]

OK, I'll admit that I'm probably the last man in America who doesn't own
a Dremel.
So after watching you folks display all sorts of wizardry on your guns using a rotary tool I decided to buy one....
I should have guessed that Dremel alone has at least six models ( I'm not kindly disposed to cordless) from the cheapest model 100 to the nuclear
powered model 8000 that can accuratize your gun while you sleep and will
walk your dog at 3 AM. Just to confuse the issue, Black and Decker make a nice looking tool for about $20 less than the matching Dremel.
I want to do some occasional polishing,fine grinding and maybe a little cutting.
Can you please sound off on your favorite rotary tool and why.
And please, if you have a $600 German tool with anti-gravity flux capacitor bearings and a laser guided shaft.... keep it a secret.

Thanks

[wyntrout]

I bought a 200+ tool thingie... a Dremel-Like Tool for about $25 at Costco. I wouldn't fool with a cordless. Those things need a lot of use to keep the batteries working. I infrequently use my device, DLT, mainly for polishing with the buffer wheels... bought several packs of those... Dremel ones at Lowe's. Mine has lots of dangerous cutting and abrasive thingies that I shudder to use, but have... to my great chagrin, a few times!

Check out Harbor Freight Tools and use their coupons plus sales and get an ac-powered cheap "Dremel-Like-Tool".

Wynn

[gb6491]

I have a Dremel 300 and an older version of it. These are variable speed units and have been very dependable for me. Variable speed is big plus: saves bits, helps prevent plastic work from melting and wood work from burning, etc.
I think the first accessory one should buy is the 4486 Dremel chuck: http://www.dremel.com/en-us/Accessor....aspx?pid=4486
Regards,
Greg

[Bawanna]

I agree that variable is a must have and cordless is surely a you can do without version. I would look at what accessories are available. I have a drill stand that I got for mine which I'm sure is limited to the models it can hold. It's a simple and cheap affair but I use it tons on my grip making.
If this one ever burns up I'll surely have to find one that fits my stand or get a new stand. It's indispensable for me.

I think Dremel makes a great tool but some of the others are pretty good as well. Kind of have to anticipate what your needs are. Tons of options and accessories, like a AR15 you plug in the wall.

Which model is it that walks your dog at 3am. I want that one.

[Tilos]

I have both a Dremel and Black and Decker version and use the B&D more but the sprindle bearings are showing wear.
I have the Dremel accsessory kit too, it has the good stuff.

Tilos

[BEARDOG]

I have two Dremel's, both model # 395. Vari-speed/ AC powered, They both work fine for Dremel size jobs, Get the chuck Greg suggested. I wouldn't buy a cordless. I don't have a laser guided shaft LOL, but I do have a flex shaft on one of them. Pick out a kit that comes with stuff you think you will need, don't pay for stuff you won't.

[DeaconKC]

My old Dremel has outlasted 3 cheaper no name rotary tools. Yup, use the corded one and buy the big packs of cut off discs, you go through a lot of them. And +1 on the chuck.

[rogerthedodger]

I have a Dremel that was my Dad's, probably 30+ years old. AC only, variable speed. Does the trick for polishing so dont spend a lot of $$ cheap ones do the job.

[MW surveyor]

Just remember.....at 10,000 rpm you can screw something up 10,000 times faster....and....Dremel, the gunsmith's friend.

[JimBianchi]

I have the cheapie knock-off from Harbor Freight Tools and 200 pieces for $50 two years ago.

I also have a Dremel Brand dremel I bought with 20 tools for $80 about 10 years ago. I use both regularly and use both with the long extension arm for most of the work.

I don't see a difference.

[CJB]

Mr Dremel here. I own four Dremel and one BnD tool. The three speed BnD is my go to tool. Better bearings, three click speeds, and the best quick change bits.


Dremel is also good...very good on repkacement parts. The hands down best is Fordham....expensive burmt worth every penny.

[jocko]

had a dremel varialble for 15 years damn thing is like my POS kahr. IT WORKS EVERY TIME. That the trouble with good tools and guns, the damn things work when needed.

[CJB]

There is also Gyro sold at Sears. Comes with lots of stuff.
BnD takes all Dremel accessories, but wont mount in model specific things like drill press. Will do the router stand tho.

I keep one for felt wheels, one for rubber wheels, one for sanding drum...the old cordless is on its third battery pack (internal)...and usually has a cutoff wheel on it.

[hpg]

Just be sure and get a variable speed....

[Bawanna]

I paid attention last night at the bench and realized what I thought was my dremel is actually the Sears version variable. The little drill stand is also Sears. The two prior to this one were Dremel. I still have one but it was well worn and making noises of complaint. She had a heck of a ride though. Lasted a long time.