[Callynne]

Mark, you've made me very curious about the NSK micromotor. I love my RAM 45 and haven't noticed a bit of difference between what I can do with it and my MasterCarver, both, however, I would never dream of using as you do your NSK.

As Susieq has stated, I too would not consider using a 1/8" bit in either one of them! I use mine only for detail work, everything else is done with my rotary machine. I don't have a problem with that set up.....however......if there is a difference.....like for instance.....the difference between using a dremel or a micromotor....well.....I too need to start saving my pennies! Deborah
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[mark yundt]

Don't know how many Dremels I went through. They were affordable on an individual basis,,but add them up ,I would have been half way to a NSK.

I know what you mean,,I couldn't afford mine either,,this was just a hobby back then.
I've got the Ram as I said,,Ive put the 1/8 ths in it as well,,pushed it a bit,,but as it started getting hot,,and seeing how it was slowing down,,I figured I'd better back off.Maybe it would ,,maybe it wouldn't,,but it just didn't give me the confidence the other does.
Then again,,I'm sure it is me,,I really do push things to their limits.I want to know where they are and don't hesitate to find them.If it breaks,,well now I know.Get another and try again.Usually though the breakers blow in an effort by the machine to save itself from me.Fortunately ,as opposed to other machines,,these have safeguards built into them,,they'll let you know when you're asking too much of them.
Bringing a tool into my shop though is really signing it's death certificate,,it's just a matter of time.

[Bonnie]

Now I'm really curious to hear from someone that owns the more expensive model micromotor made by Foredom. Anyone out there that has used one and can add some input? It would be interesting to find out if it has as good of reviews as the NSK.

Bonnie

[Paul_Guraedy]

I do not own my favorite micromotor or I would have an NSK. Although I have only used them a few times (on loan from other carvers), I agree totally with Mark. That is the most wonderful machine! I just have not been willing to break down and pay for what I want. Partially, because the units I own have been doing an adequate job and I could not justify (to myself) the need for a new micromotor. I bought the Foredom because I got such a good price for it and it was foolish to pass up the opportunity.
I have noted on another thread that the Foredom is a vast improvement over the Optima 2 that I have had since about 1995 (but it cost a lot more). For now, the Foredom is a good compromise between what I want and what will work for me. Someday…………maybe….NSK!
As far as the RPMs are concerned, I have used 1/8s ever since I started with micromotors and have not found them to be a problem. I don’t “hog off” the wood like I would with the flex-shaft. When I need to take off a lot of wood, I put in a more aggressive bit; but, still use a light touch.
I have quite a variety of bits ranging from the aggressive steels to the smooth blue stones from foredom. The only thing I have had a problem with is using a 1/8 mandrel with an inch square of scotchbrite on it in the Optima. The machine overheats fairly rapidly and shuts down. I have been going to the flexshaft for this work. I have not tried it in the foredom micromotor….don’t have a 1/8 collet.

[Bonnie]

Paul, which model of the Foredom do you own? I hear the more expensive one is way better than the one that retails for less..

Bonnie

[Paul_Guraedy]

Bonnie,

I spent 8 wonderful years at the western unit of Saguaro (now park, then monument). Lived there in the park just west of the Desert Museum.

I have the "cheap" version if you can call what I paid for it (even with a big discount) cheap. I have looked at and watched a few carvers using the machines with greater rpms including the "turbos" of 400,000 or so rpms. The folks with the turbos have told me that they are great for real intricate detail but don't handle torque very well.

I do not use any of my micromotors at full rpm very often preferring to operate at about 80% power level. Changing the bit type rather than speed seems to work better for me. I must also admit that I have a problem slowing the speed and using a light touch with some of the "smooth" bits.

Which leads me to a question for those using micromotors.

At what speeds are you operating for your smooth stones and the "blue" bits from foredom?

[mark yundt]

I tend to agree Paul,,the turbos lack the "tactile" feel to them and as I said the ones I played with didn't seem like you could work them.I too use mine usually at around 80%,,alternating to a different bit rather than all out speed. That's why I said speed wasn't as big a concern,as was torque.Speed is great,,and has it's place,,but control and feel is a bigger priority for me.

[susieq]

Amen on the turbos....
I was interested in them when I first saw one but it is obvious that they are not ideal for wood carving. Ostrich egg carving yes, gunstock checking and metal engraving, yes. Bonnie, they might even be good for gourds.... but an all round wood carving tool they are not.

By the way, UPS brought my repaired Foredom micromotor hand piece back to me today. New bearings, new brushes and they even encluded a spare set of new brushes. Now, when I get back in my shop again I can compare it with the Master Carver.
susieq

[mark yundt]

Great Susieq,,hook that puppy up and have at it,,let us know how it runs.

[woodspiritslover]

Bonnie and all friends, I need a little help (brand new in the subject). I am the "proud" owner of a baby Dremel: Stylus (no manual included).
All enthusiastic about it at purchase but now I am so disappointed because I cannot trace anywhere enough info about the accessories. In other words I went out and bought a banch of accessories I watch them everyday and I have no idea which ones are for wood carving and polishing. Anyone interested to help? What do the accessories for woodcarving looklike? Thanks all.