[Callynne]

Okay, between using my little pen sander and the Proxxon Rotary tool I have I'm considering a dust collector...have noticed sawdust does go everywhere!!
I've done some research and would love to hear some opinions from those with more experience than me in this field (that would be anyone!! ).
When I did my chickadee the book recommended Typhoon Out Burs, I used them just enough to find out for sure that's not the kind of carving I want to do. What I like rotary for is clean up and fine detail work, the couple Ruby Carvers I have are perfect for that. My question is, what type of dust collection system do I want (figure I need one because after a little while working, even with a dust mask on I start to cough). One I'm considering is the DC720 Portable (on page 27 of MDI's Catalog), it's small and has a plastic shield which I assume you work inside of and it pulls the dust into the collector.
The other is on page 19 of WoodCraft's February catalog. It's a ShopVac Dust Collector and says it moves the air in the room to filter the dust every ten minutes. Sounds to me like the first one just sucks in the dust as you work, the other pulls it in and also filters the air in the room. Am I way off on this?!
I don't ever expect to get into rotary in any big way, but I am finding I use it on every piece I do and then of course I also use the pen sander, I'd really appreciate hearing what you think would be the best option. I sure don't want to buy what I think sounds the best and find out it's not at all what I need. Thanks!! Callynne

[Colin_Partridge]

Callynne,
Did you see that article in WCI this issue where it told you how to make one out of a 20' fan and a 20' filter for just a few dollars. I am checking all the Flea Markets for one of those floor model 20' fans I think that would be all I need as I dont do that much sanding.
Colin

[David_Aaron_Sercel]

Callynne,

I have owned the DC720 for a little ove a year and am really liking it.
It has, so far, been able to handle large amounts of dust, like when
roughing out a full sized duck with a power carver. Since I got it
I haven't had to change the filter, I just clean it by brushing the
dust out every few days.

[Donna_T]

Hi Callynne,
I'm not an expert by any means but I do use a dust collector when I'm using power carving tools (and sometimes a woodburner, too) inside. Here's some observations:
1. Unless you get a dust collector that vents to the 'outside', you will be pulling wood dust air into the dust collector where the larger particles will be caught in the filter and the 'cleaner' air blown out into the room.
2. A dust collector with two fans is much more effective than one that just has one fan.
3. You will need to clean off your filter periodically while using it (I either take mine outside and 'thump' it clean, dump it in a trash container, or clean it off with a shop vac) or it will lose its effectiveness (gets clogged up).
4. I still wear a GOOD dust mask--even when using a good dust collector....we really cannot be too careful when dealing with wood dust. I even get eye irritation from some power carving so safety glasses (or regular glasses) are a good precaution.
5. Although my dust collector doesn't have it, I have seen them and I would recommend one that has a built-in plug-in receptacle so you can plug in your power carver and work light without having several extension cords.

I use power for roughing in some types of carvings and for doing some clean up or detailing, but most of the time I prefer knives. I don't have either of the catalogues at hand, but I think I got my dust collector from Grizzly.

(PS I like Typhoon burrs to rough in--better than Kutzall or stump cutters and the plastic shields help 'funnel' the dust into the filter.)

Like I said, this is just my opinion based on my experience. Hope it helps.
Donna T

[Hi_Ho_Sliver]

Callynne...I just received an email that said ' I am waiting for your response!' so I assumed that was not from you! I deleted it!

[Callynne]

Thanks for the answers everyone, I'm definitely leaning towards the DC720, sounds like it might be just what I'm looking for.
Colin, I saw that article, it will just be easier to send for one than bug hubby to help me find the parts and build my own.
Donna, I figured I'd have to still wear a mask, as for eye protection I wear my glasses when I work, they get coated in sawdust! Probably should wear safety glasses too, I'd like to find a pair that actually fit, they all seem sized for bigger faces than mine!
Dave, you're right, I didn't send you that e-mail, in fact someone tried sending me the same one last week. Really rotten, they are trying to trick people into opening them by saying things that make one think they are legit.
Thanks again for all the information, you guys are the best! Callynne

[Hi_Ho_Sliver]

I just got another email from mdallen with a subj of 'yep'...know that wasn't from him either! love that delete button!