Good Replacement for my Dremel Tool

[Re-Vision]

Hi, I'm surprised to read that you are able to replace the motor brushes in Dremmels. I quit using them because the models I was using did not allow you to replace the brushes; I went through several and threw them out because of this! I now use a WeCheer, mainly for that reason!

[telecarver]

I have used all of the tools suggested above for thousands of hours. My opinion is: While the Foredom is a good quality tool, it is too slow for many operations. Unless you want to invest in a micro motor to augment it, go with the MasterCarver Pro Flexshaft. It is also a good quality tool. I have put mine through many thousands of hours of use with no problems. I own three Foredoms and although they still work fine, they sit in a drawer. The Makita die grinder is great tool but is too large and heavy for any kind of detail work. It is best used for rough out of larger pieces. The Dremel is a good low cost option but the bearing run out makes it marginal for fine detail. The weak point for the Dremel is the switch. I buy the cheapest one speed Dremels and control them with an electronic router speed control from Woodworkers Supply. The router speed control will give you full torque at all speeds, unlike a foot pedal or rheostat variable speed switch. You can also use it with other tools such as a flexshaft tool or angle grinder. It will only work with single speed brush motors. The good news is those are the most inexpensive models and you can still get the variable speed with one unit to control all of your tools. It's one of the most valuable tools I own. Don't buy the one from Harbor Freight. It's a rheostat. Having been there and worked extensively with all of the options, this is my best advice.

[telecarver]

Originally Posted by Re-Vision

Hi, I'm surprised to read that you are able to replace the motor brushes in Dremmels. I quit using them because the models I was using did not allow you to replace the brushes; I went through several and threw them out because of this! I now use a WeCheer, mainly for that reason!

The little plastic screws on the outside of all of the Dremels I've had provide access to the brushes. It's a five minute job to replace them

[Lazy Carver]

Thanks for the question, and the info... Now i can move on from the dremel, which from what i see has its limitations! Very informative indeed!
Sincerely, Bob Vega (Lazy Carver)

[Old Codger]

Hi Everyone! Thanks for all your wonderful advice... I'm currently still using Dremels plus one B & D knock-off and have been pleased so far for what I've been doing... Dremels seem to be fine for 'light' carving, but Foreman/Master Carver for heavier work... Until I move on to heavier work, I'll probably stick to my Dremels but thank everyone for your advice as I'm sure at some time I will attempt some heavier carving...ideas are already on my '2doList'...
Again thanks for your wonderful and priceless advice! Safe carving to you all!
Kenn

[SeaLeveler]

I have a Harbor Freight rotary that was in a box lot and it is going on 5 years of moderate use.It does have a Foredom cable and hand piece.I also have Dremels and knockoffs that handle the smaller stuff and higher speed needs.
Tony