Good Replacement for my Dremel Tool

[Old Codger]

I currently have a variable speed dremel that I often use when carving in basswood. Althought I like dremels, I've had several dremels over the years and know they burn out from use that they're not designed for. Recently I've received several new catalogs (2011's) and I've noticed a number of power carvers like the Foreman, Wecheer, etc. and wonder if they might be a better choice to replace the dremel with. Since they seem to come in several styles, benchtop, hanging, floor or table speed adjust, etc. and horsepower, I'd like some advice on which type/one to purchase as a replacement for my dremel. I'd like to invest in a good heavy, all around unit that I can use my current dremel accessories with plus other burrs, bits, etc. Any advice from those who might have experience in this area would be greatly appreciated. Thanks and safe carving to you all.
Kenn

[mobjack68]

Bought a Foredom almost 25 years ago. While it is not used every day, I have put it to the test. Just recently finished porting and polishing the heads for my rebuilt corvette motor.
I had to shape a piece of aluminum (intake manifold) so it could be welded....I chucked up a carbide router bit and started hacking at it. About 6 hours later, I had it shaped to suit me....(that operation is NOT for the faint at heart!!!)

I have used everything from 1/4" shank structured cutting tools/carbide burrs to some of the finest dental burrs/diamond smoothers. All with Foredom precision/accuracy and dependability. Do I sound like I get a commission for every sale???? just a happy customer...

[Dicky]

I got a Foredom some years back and haven't had any problems. I really like the reversible feature on mine. That means you can direct the dust away from yourself. With the various collets available you can use all sizes of burrs.

[Stan Curtis]

I have two Foredom's...and a whole bunch of Dremels, real and knock-off... But the Foredom's get the most use by far. I have both the foot controls and the variable speed dial type. Which one I use depends upon the job. IMHO you can't do better than a Foredom.

[DarrenN]

Originally Posted by Old Codger

I currently have a variable speed dremel that I often use when carving in basswood. Althought I like dremels, I've had several dremels over the years and know they burn out from use that they're not designed for. Recently I've received several new catalogs (2011's) and I've noticed a number of power carvers like the Foreman, Wecheer, etc. and wonder if they might be a better choice to replace the dremel with. Since they seem to come in several styles, benchtop, hanging, floor or table speed adjust, etc. and horsepower, I'd like some advice on which type/one to purchase as a replacement for my dremel. I'd like to invest in a good heavy, all around unit that I can use my current dremel accessories with plus other burrs, bits, etc. Any advice from those who might have experience in this area would be greatly appreciated. Thanks and safe carving to you all.
Kenn

It's not a technique I use very much but I have seen several people make their own motor setup that connects to the shaft. I think it is fairly moderate on the handyman scale but the principle boils down to a larger motor equals less stress. The time and effort-I am told more than covers having to buy dremmels over and over. Learning how to rebuild the motors can also save money- the brushes are what go on them typically-as they are designed to do..otherwise it would last a lifetime and where is the money in that? Spending the money on a commercial model may also be a solution-even at a casual hobbie level-the more spendy units are designed for heavy use, longetivity, and maintenance/repair accessability. take care

[Merle Rice]

I got the Mastercarver Pro Flex Shaft, 1/3 Hp and am very well pleased with it. I was going thru Dremels and finally made the move and not sorry. I got the desk top which you can convert to a hanging type also. I didn't get the foot petal didn' think I would need it and was right. I also liked the price. Merle

[Old Codger]

Thanks everyone! I saw the 1/2 hp MasterCarver unit in a recent catalog and thought I might purchase one but wanted some advice from the 'experts' as I've only had a Dremel before - still pleased with it, but thought a little heavier and more powerful unit would last longer ... now too decide which model - MasterCarver or Foreman. The largest Foreman I've seen so far is 1/3 hp so is the MasterCarver a better deal or will I really need that much more power? Again, thanks in advance for your advice!
Kenn

[Dileon]

It depends what kind of wood you are carving, if you just carve basswood then you need a lower hp...but if you are carving hardwood then you need the hp. I have two foredoms the SR and TX they are great, then I went to micro for detail work.

[Arsenlt]

I use 2 dremmels for my carving, When they "burn out", my husband simply replaces the electrical brushes, and they are just like new again. Costs only $8 for these brushes, got the replacements at Canadian Tire (in Canada). I'm sure there is a comparable store in the States.

[Donsexton]

Get your self a Makita die grinder pro grade tool.