Which Dremel?

[bryn]

Many descriptions of elegant cockpits include something along the lines of "so I got out my Dremel and......".   It is quite clear that lack of a Dremel is the sole reason I have made almost no progress on my pit!

A quick look on Amazon.uk shows vast numbers of Dremels and attachments.  What should I be looking for? 

Any advice welcome

--
Bryn

[rhysb]

Bryn,

I would recommend a dremel model. Most are cheap Chinese models.

I can recommend the GMC rotary tool too.

Firstly all of them have the same size shank and if they don't all come with collets.

Second make sure you buy a corded version and not a li-ion or battery version, I know you have a wire but much more consistent in speed and use.

Rhys b

[bryn]

Thanks Rhys, I'm mostly confused about what specific attachments to look for.  Most of the attachment kits seem to include small tools for engraving rings and polishing jewellery - there doesn't seem to be a cockpit builders toolkit!

Bryn

[mickc]

I tend to use the cutting and routing tools the most. Also the sanding tools.
Usually you can get kits of accessories such as sanding or cutting for around $AU 30 or you can buy individual bits.

Some attachments I also found to be very useful are the router table and the drill press.
As Rhys said, the wired version is a better option than the rechargeable one.  I use the 4000 model

I have attached a catalog I had that shows all the accessories available and their uses.

[blueskydriver]

Hi Bryn,

You likely know this, but the most important accessory for a Dremel is...EYE PROTECTION! Not shouting at you, it's just I hear time and time again of guys using a Dremel without eye protection and they have an eye injury or even lose an eye.

Actually, I suggest using a eye protection and full face shield. I had a cutting wheel fly apart on me and zing, right on the cheek! I had the ole blood and guts look for a few days, but I wear a face shield now...learned the hard way.

Get a Dremel Model as Rhys has said, but look for one with a variable speed switch that is more like a potimeter or sliding switch rather then a step switch. With a step switch you get the speeds or RPM's that are locked at those positions, where as a slider gives you whatever speed you want from power off to full power.

Finally, when my Dad past away back in 2001, I inherited his machinists tools and rolling toolbox, and within it I found a very early model from Dremel that he modified himself to be variable as I described. I had one of my own at the time that was a step switch, but I've been using his modified one ever since I got it...

John

[andthiel]

Hi Bryn,

I fully agree with John.

Plus - not to forget a good dust mask, particularly when you are going to sand MDF pieces.

Andreas


Sent from my iPad via Tapatalk HD

[rhysb]

Indeed face protection is a must. The small rotary tool attachments and bits because of their speeds they run at do not need to meet any safety standards, unlike larger faster discs that need to be OSA etc, thus the cheaper accessories are in fact that! Very cheap and dangerous!

When it comes to tools you get what you pay for! A top Dremel corded model.

If you want something a bit extra the new area is the larger multicutter tools that come with all the accessories you will ever need! The Fein model is very good as is the Bosch GOP version.

Rhys b

[markfire]

@rhys


He knows his dremels : )