Questions about new rotary tool

L

lesoleilnoir

Joined
Jun 15, 2001
Messages
149
Hello all,

I just picked up a Black and Decker multispeed(8-30k rpm) rotary tool. I need it for some general projects around the house.

My question is, what can I use it for in relation to making knives. I'm just starting out, so I'll be doing stock removal. Is grinding out of the question? I've read here that the cutoff wheels work well. What about finishing and polishing?

Thank for your input.

LeSoleilNoir
 
Maybe not for cutting out blanks but good for finish work on inside finger grooves and ricasso and contouring grips. There should be a good selection of bits and sanding drums available. A man can never have too many tools. Good addition.
 
Very handy tool to have around, However you will
find that thay have a tendincy to screw up more than
it saves. Gib
 
Thanks guys,

I'm pretty happy, I picked it up for $32 on Ubid. Should come in handy, we'll see what it can do with knives.

LeSoleilNoir
 
Actually, I've used those types of tools for profiling a pattern, but I don't recommend it. On smaller knives with straight lines, it works fair at best. If you try it, be sure to use reinforced abrasive disks, as the others shatter. Not good at 30K RPM :(

Mike
 
I have about 5 or 6 of those dremel tools. Two with flexible shafts and the others just plain strait head units. The best attachment I've come across is the Roto-Zip head. It's at a right angle and uses spiral cut bits that are absolutely fantastic for cleaning out the slot in a hidden tang handle. That spiral bit really works great!

But, they are absolutely useless for doing anything other than polishing and finishing filework and such. They just don't have the strength to use for profiling and rough cutting and grinding. It makes me think of using one of those electric toothbrushes to wash your car. Just not practical and actually pretty dangerous with that high speed they reach. I've sure messed up a few blades while using them. And at 10 - 12,000 RPM when you have an oops it's usually a pretty bad oops.

Now if you want a real useful tool go out and buy one of those inexpensive angle grinders and then find the grinding belt attachment that will fit it. You can really take off the steel with those beauties! I use mine on problem grinds that need that delicate touch. It's saved my bacon a number of times.
 
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