[patrickf]

I am about to purchase a Foredom and don't know which model I should get - the SR 1/6 HP that is reversible or the non-reversible 1/3 HP TX. Can someone tell me what advantage the reversible mode provides? Do you reverse the direction of the cutter based on the direction of the wood grain? I am right handed if that makes a difference. I have also heard parts are more for the TX. Thanks for your help/advise.

[achaundy]

The reverse is for left handers, no need to change cutters. Skip

[squbrigg]

I have the ReverseSR and use the reverse every so often, when I run into a cut that I want to continue with the grain, so I shut it off, reverse the direction and complete the cut. I don't use it often, but I wouldn't be without it. I am also right handed, but I don't think that makes much difference. The SR has done everything I have asked of it and more, and I frequently have it carving Cherry, Birch, Walnut, Mahogany, Butternut, Holly, Ebony, Afermosia and Basswood. Even had it into a piece of maple a while ago. No complaints.

Bob

[patrickf]

Thank you both for your feedback. It's very much appreciated.

I looked at your site Bob. Very nice stuff. It must keep you very busy.

Thanks again to you both.

[Doug Ridley]

To my mind the reverse is of no use whatsoever unless your paw is from the South and then I would run it in reverse all the time. This is my opinion only and others may disagree.
Doug

[bulldog]

I'm right handed and use a TX. Very good performance. The parts do cost a little more but not much more. I have not run into a situation that I thought it might be nice to have a reverse ( yet ). If your right handed and have a unit in reverse it could throw the burr at you if you make a slip. There are many on this board with a lot more experiance than I. Perhaps some more opinions are in order.
KEEP BARKIN

[Hugh P.]

I'm with Dough and Buldog, I've got the TX Foredom, without reverse, can't see the need for reverse, Yet. Grin. The TX has lots of power, and is a good unit.

[GabrielT]

As with everything, it depends on what you are going to do with your tool.

I am with squbrigg on this. Sometimes, for the work I do, it is nice to be able to reverse the machine and make a cut.

Never had that option on my machines before, but I am glad that now I do. Could I live without it? Sure. But why would I want to limit myself or my work?

GabeT

[susieq]

I wasn't going to jump in here as it has all been said before.... but I thought about my own use of the "reverse" and have this to offer.

If you use your Foredom (or what ever brand) shaft tool for everything you do from roughing right on through the finishing process, then yes, reverse is a must. When doing finishing work, woodgrain direction matters.

I do not use my shaft tools for anything but roughing. I have never used the reverse on my Foredom sr unit in the 14 years I have had it. (It was a gift from my wonderful husband, who believes in getting all the bells and whistles available on any tool)

I use a micro motor for the finish work. Most micro motors have reverse. So, I would say if you use the shaft tool for the whole process, you probably need reverse. I also think that if you are a power carver, sooner or later you will probably be buying a micro motor. Just my two cents on the subject. .