[jstive]

Which kit is the better value for a novice carver such as myself? The foredom 5240 kit or the 1/3hp TX foredom kit with the 50c handpiece and the recepicating chisels that go with it. I really like the looks of the 5240 kit but my concern is it's only a 1/6hp as compared to the bigger 1/3hp TX series. Doesn't all the foredoms interchange with different handpieces and alot of different accessories? I need someone to get me in the right direction cause I want to buy a foredom real soon. I also want one that will work for me and I will add on all the accessories I need from there. My problem as I have been researching the tool there is just to many options and Iam getting confused as to which way to go. Please help. Thanks, Jim

[squbrigg]

You should be fine with the 1/6 hp Foredom, unless you are going into a commercial enterprize. Yes, the hand pieces are interchangable, I use the #8, #28, #44, and #50.

Bob

[whitecree]

I hear you about the confusing array of options. I'm in the same spot, just on the verge of buying a full-blown Foredom. Thanks to Squbrigg, I know which handpieces I'll be picking up right away, but I really like the idea of all that power of the 1/3 hp TX series.

[Nancy-ID]

There is absolutely nothing wimpy about the 5240! It'll eat up everything in its path including you if you're not careful Everything is interchangeable.

[bulldog]

I bought one of the TX models with #28 and #44 hand pieces. It chews up would very fast. I think the 1/6 hp model can run counter clockwise, the TX can't. I'm right handed, the burs spin away from me but throw dust in my face. Absolutly wear eye protection and a dust mask regardless of which model you choose. I like the extra power on hand in the event I want to grind something other than wood. I have had no maintenance problems since I bought it 6 mos. ago. I have put it through moderate use thus far Good luck on your pending purchase.
KEEP BARKIN

[grampabatball]

One thing you might want to look at is the cost of replacement parts. Sooner or later some parts are going to need replaced like the shafts etc. and there is a dramatic difference in replacing Tx parts. Good luck on your decisions.

[Hugh P.]

Just another opinion, personally the TX is the way to go, used a 1/8 hp for years, and it worked fine, but it would heat up on a bigger project. finally bought a TX, and there is no comparison, would never go back to the lighter machine, and the cables are basically the same price though my supplier. Although I have only the spare purchased when I bought the machine. they might be up in price now.

[jartzh]

Just me (see my new thread) but I would go with the more powerful model and never look back. Unless its more than twice the cost of the smaller one and you consider the smaller one a throway. I would love to hear someone say I bought the more powerful one and dont like it because ....