Starter Dremel set

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Jun 6, 2011
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600
That's right. I'm finally going to go out and buy one so I can start modding all of my knives and tearin' up some metal. I just want you guys to recommend a good one to start with. Perhaps a kit or something. I don't need a high-tech Dremel with all the fancy settings. Just recommend me something to start off with and get my feet wet. I'm heading to the hardware store later today so hopefully you guys can get me some suggestions as quick as possible. Thanks alot, guys. This will really help because I've seen so many different models of Dremels and I really don't know which to buy, or which bits/heads to buy for it. Sorry if there is a post like this, but I just got home from work(3rd shift) and my head isn't really on my shoulders right now. Thanks again.
 
i would definitely get a variable speed model. It is useful to have the capability to slow it down to help control how fast you take material off. Another useful accessory would be a flex shaft, it's sometimes easier to control than having to hold the whole motor/drive.

Try it on some scrap materials to get a feel for how it cuts and how the different cutters work.

Check places like Sams or Costco, sometimes they have accessory packs of burs, cut off wheels, grinding points, etc. for a pretty good price.

Make sure you wear safety glasses.

Ric
 
I'm still using a model 395 that I bought 20 years ago. I just bought the cleaning/polishing and sanding/grinding accessory kits for it. The sanding wheels I found for it were course and not so course so it takes a lot of extra work to get rid of the sanding lines. I throw a lot of sparks sanding steel so a full face shield and an N95 dust mask with exhale valve is a good bet. I think you will need to get a more powerful Dremel and support stand if you decide to run a flex shaft.
 
I'll second the recommendation for a variable-speed model. I have a model 395 'Type 5' Dremel, bought a long time ago, with continuously-variable speeds from 5000 to 30,000 rpm. I have ALWAYS used it at the lowest speed setting, when doing any grinding on metal. I also have a flex-shaft, which makes controlling the work a LOT easier. I don't have a support stand, but the bale on the unit makes it pretty easy to hang on any convenient hook or peg nearby.
 
Sorry, guys. I didn't mean to make it sound like I didn't want a variable speed at all. I just don't want one that costs a couple hundred dollars. So, should I just go take a look at the stores and see if I can get the most basic model with variable speed?
 
If your price limit is $200, you should be able to find everything you need, easily. I haven't shopped these for a long time, but I don't think even the nicer ones are anywhere close to that expensive. Lots of good Dremel variable-speed kits out there, for less than $100 (much less, in some cases).
 
If your price limit is $200, you should be able to find everything you need, easily. I haven't shopped these for a long time, but I don't think even the nicer ones are anywhere close to that expensive. Lots of good Dremel variable-speed kits out there, for less than $100 (much less, in some cases).

Good. I was hoping less than $100. I'm headed out in a few so wish me luck. Thanks for the help, guys.
 
Find an old sewing machine foot pedal rheostat, or order a new one from www.micromark.com
Infinitely variable speed control, and you can use it on the cheapest model Dremel.
 
I don't know if you have a Lowes near you but they have a nice selection of Dremel and accessories. the main thing that is gona cost you is good quality solid carbides if you get into cutting and reshaping blades. I found a nice little set from my Snap-on dealer part#VWB700B and Grainger has a good selection too.
 
Probably too late, but for about $200 you can get a Foredom with a flex shaft. Check out some of the stuff at http://www.ottofrei.com. These are really good machines. I was thinking about getting one after using a friend's, but I didn't think I'd use it that much. I got one at a garage sale for $25. It gets used a lot more than I thought it would.

Oh yeah, don't forget a respirator (especially if working with carbon fiber or G10).

Ric
 
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