Which Foredom?

[Burchtree]

Right now, the only rotary tool I'm using is a BD RTX and am thinking about checking out a foredom. Lots of options out there though --

 

[Raymond Richard]

Michael, I know what I have is not a Foredom but I've been using a flex shaft rotary tool from HF Tools that I'm pretty happy with at about 1/8th the cost of a Foredom plus I got the replacement thing so I can bring it back when it turns into a piece of crap. Its not a bad tool if you don't get one of the lemons they seem to slip in.

 

[Mike Hull]

http://www.blackstoneind.com/foundations/store/home.asp#

http://www.newmantools.com/foredom/tools.htm

http://www.pozsgaidesigns.com/page0012.htm

http://www.deltasupplies.com/Foredom/home.asp

I have an old CC motor and kit(I don't know if it's available anymore) with the #30 handpiece. It's heavy duty and won't come apart on you. I don't like the light duty collet type handpieces. They just won't hold up to heavy pressure like the #30. It uses a keyed chuck like your drill press.

I've had this 1/10th HP setup since 1980 and it's still worling like new. They have new more powerful motors now, like 1/6, 1/4 HP, etc. I have a foot switch with mine. Makes life a lot easier.

 

[JCaswell]

I have an old CC motor and kit(I don't know if it's available anymore) with the #30 handpiece. It's heavy duty and won't come apart on you. I don't like the light duty collet type handpieces. They just won't hold up to heavy pressure like the #30. It uses a keyed chuck like your drill press.

I have 3 Foredoms, two CCs (.8 amps) and a stronger one in a differnet location. The number 30 handpiece usually comes standard with the indespensible variable-speed footpedal Mike mentions when you get it as a kit (which I recommend). The number 30 is very versitile, and a great place to start in handpieces.

When it comes to these tools, I'd suggest getting a new one rather than try to save a few bucks on some used item. These are the types of tools that are seldom sold unless they're worn out.

I'd check out Rio Grande (the jewelry supply company). You should get their free catalogue (s) if you don't already have them. They have Foredom making kits for them (private labeled) that might be less expensive than what you're looking at.

 

[akivory]

For the last 25 years I have made my living carving fossil ivory and whale bone have five Foredoms hanging at my bench and use them all day. If you are going to use it hard recommend the TXH model. For knife making the TX will probably be fine. These are the newest models with longer shafts and more torque .I have CC. R and S models are all fine.Do not buy a cheap import.Unless you use it everyday a Foredom will last you a lifetime and it is worth the extra you will pay. You can get good deals on eBay.if you want to buy it new I have found Rio Grande has the best prices.

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

I just counted,I run eight flexshaft motors.Most all are Foredom. I have them up to 1/4HP.My Mastercarver unit (Foredom clone) has a 1/3HP motor. You can't beat a #30 handpiece for reliability and toughness,especially when cutting hard materials like steel. Forget the bench mounted units and knob speed controls. Get a hanging unit with a foot control.Buy an extra shaft if one does not come with the kit.Clean and lube the shaft monthly,and oil the unit and it will last a very long time.My oldest is at least 30 years old.Never changed more than the brushes on the motor,and a new sheath and shaft.
Stacy

 

[jhiggins]

The Foredom gets my vote. I have the S (I think)... its the one that had a bit more horsepower and amps than the regular.

Buying all the bits is the hard part. Bloody things cost an arm and a leg.