Dremel recommendation

[Shotgun]

My wife and I are looking for a dremel tool or a dremel like tool. We need something for gem(sunstone/agate) polishing because we enjoy rock hounding and we’re getting a sizable pile of raw. We want something that won’t get burned out with heavy use but we don’t want to break the bank either. Looking at 100 bucks ideally but if throwing more money at it to gets us something we’d be happier with in the long run, we’d like to know about it and at least consider it. This will inevitably be used for other projects as well. I’m not a power tool type of guy so I’m out of my depth. Appreciate your input.

 

[Hickory n steel]

My wife and I are looking for a dremel tool or a dremel like tool. We need something for gem(sunstone/agate) polishing because we enjoy rock hounding and we’re getting a sizable pile of raw. We want something that won’t get burned out with heavy use but we don’t want to break the bank either. Looking at 100 bucks ideally but if throwing more money at it to gets us something we’d be happier with in the long run, we’d like to know about it and at least consider it. This will inevitably be used for other projects as well. I’m not a power tool type of guy so I’m out of my depth. Appreciate your input.

I've been perfectly happy with my Dremel 4000 over the past few years, they run about $85 but it's well worth it.
I use it for something almost every day.
That's my recommendation, even though the original Made in Racine Wisconsin models were made better and last longer.

I've got an original from the mid 70's that's definitely built better but the 4000 has great features and a bit more pleasant to use.
I recommend buying a keyless chuck with it, it's awesome and we'll worth $10.
You don't need multiple sized collets for smaller diameter bits, don't have to worry about the little wrench ( the 4000 does have a wrench built into the thread cap though ), and it's just well made in Germany.

 

[Eagle Scout]

Go with the brand name Dremel tool, but consider the "off brand" attachments. The cut-off wheels in the photo below are amazing for the money. Hard to find but an example of how overpriced the Dremel branded attachments are.

Variable speed is a must IMO. 32K rpms can burn certain softer materials, depending.

Here are my two. Both have been abused for years. The older MultiPro version is only two speed and it's seen hard service for over 15 years.

 

[Hickory n steel]

Go with the brand name Dremel tool, but consider the "off brand" attachments. The cut-off wheels in the photo below are amazing for the money. Hard to find but an example of how overpriced the Dremel branded attachments are.

Variable speed is a must IMO. 32K rpms can burn certain softer materials, depending.

Here are my two. Both have been abused for years. The older MultiPro version is only two speed and it's seen hard service for over 15 years.

View attachment 925324

What model is that one on the left ?
Btw I've never seen this particular router attachment before, mine is way different.

 

[heresthedeal]

Dremel, name brand, I've abused mine and it still works.
Going on 30 years. And you can refurbish it your self, replaced brushes on mine more than once.

 

[Hickory n steel]

Dremel, name brand, I've abused mine and it still works.
Going on 30 years. And you can refurbish it your self, replaced brushes on mine more than once.

Not sure the same can be said about the new ones made in Mexico ( I think they're still good and the features are great ) but my original very early one I picked up is very well made.
My first one let the ghost out which is something you can't repair but in general they were well made for what they are.

 

[Phydeaux]

Still have a Dremel from the early 70s, only one speed 30K rpm. Still using it.
As Eaglescout said, get a variable speed unit. I was fortunate enough to find a Foredom unit at a garage sale which I use when I don't need high rpms.

 

[u812]

I have a 4000. Think Lowes was running it at 59.00 for the kit several years ago when I got it. Never had any trouble with it. The variable speed is a must have.

 

[Yonose]

I got the brand name Dremel, and the cord that gives you more control because its several feet from the power source. Most of the multipacks come with everything you need except for specialized buffing fro’s. I also have a plug in version from nineteen two. The first is less than a hundred if you catch a sale, with the extension and the box of widgets for it.