Spectrum

I've recently been shopping for a rotary tool and I noticed that are many different types. Too many choices, so I took a week comparing and contrasting tools before I made my purchase. I went ahead and compared 3 different ones before making my purchase and wanted to explain some things about rotary tools. Hopefully this helps someone choose a rotary tool.

Corded or cordless:
Cordless sounds good, and is good, but it's not very good for long time intensive operations. The battery charge is mediocre. A corded rotary tool will allow you to work longer and the cord really doesn't get in the way.

Speed:
This is crucial. You want to purchase something with variable speeds, not high and low settings. This will allow you to do window etchings, control the amount of material being cut, etc. Dremel tools are adjustable from 5,000 to 35,000, as are the Sears rotary tools. A certain generic model I looked at, from HobbyShop, was adjustable from 8,000 to 30,000.

Attachments:
You buy a rotary tool for the attachments that can be used with it, so this is the most important category. All rotary tools can use standard cutting discs, drill bits, sanding discs, and grinding bits. However, the Dremel rotary tools have attachments such as planers, drill presses, chainsaw sharpeners. In a strictly modding viewpoint, it's not really necessary, but if you will use your rotary tool for these purposes, Dremel tools have you covered.

Flexible shaft:

I find that a flexible shaft is an indispensable feature. With this, you can get into tight spots and do intricate work much easier. If your tool does not come with one, make sure to get one anyway, as this is very useful.

Price:
Price is a key selling point for most people. I looked at Sears's rotary tool sold for $60 that my neighbor had, and an $80 Dremel kit my Dad's friend had. Then I looked at a $20 HobbyShop rotary tool available at Big Lots. I choose the cheapest one.

Brand/Warranty:
It goes without saying that you get what you pay for. I bought a generic tool, so I doubt I have any warranty. If you buy a name brand tool, you have a phone number to call if something goes wrong. I choose the generic tool, because I do not plan on using mine very often, maybe once or twice a month.

Conclusion:
Once you know what you need, in terms of the above mentioned features, look for sales and specials. Rotary tools play a large part in the modding world, and you can't go too far without one. I finally broke down and bought one, a generic one at that, but I think its money well spent.

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GrandpaNoob72

Spectrum:

Nice start-up how-to-pick guide for someone looking at getting their first Dremel or Dremel clone...

I would add that when shopping for attachments, such as cutoff wheels, sanding bits, and the like, be conscious of the bit size. Large size bit into a smaller size collet wastes valuable money and mod time... If your roto tool comes with instructions, be sure to read them (When all else fails, read the danged instructions, genius!) for info you might not be immediately aware of. Personal experience, nothing more.

Also (and lastly, I know more pimps want in on this one), you may be able to find combo kits from the better-known brands. The kits would contain attachments or accessories that will make a particular task much easier (such as a circular hole cutting/routing attachment, one of the Dremel XPR 400 options). It's all personal preference in the end, whether you prefer your wallet or the ease of work from your tools. No absolute right way or wrong way, as long as you reach the "Modder's Way" (adapt and overcome).

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Rob

Good starters guide, Spec.

However, I had listened to my King of Kings Taz and his decree was to purchase the new 400XPR from Dremel. Like a good servant to his holiness, I did purchase the model with the SEARS warranty. I'd have to say that I've been happy with my choice ever since, just as the King promised.

Keep up with the good posts there, buddy.

Rob

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CubanConnectionZ

Yeah that was a good article you made it easy which one to get I with you going to get it at big lots.

I am on a budget and I like to save money.

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FizzledFiend

being a mechanic that uses tools daily I would have to go just the oposite with buying on the cheap... usually cost more in the long run. As you stated you will use it very rarely so cheap may be the way to go..if it's going to be something used more than once a week go with the best "known" brand, warranty, and accesories.

nice write up m8!

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Vertical_Zer0

Good, short, helpful pointers