31 replies to this topic

[tonyp]

A while ago there was a good thread on Dremel replacements. I can't find it.

 

Any one using something different them Dremel they like?

[havlicek]

Hi Tony,

 

     I use the Proxxon.  They make two...one is a more "professional" model that has a diecast body, but uses collets.  They also have a lower-proiced on that uses a chuck.  I use the chuck one because I change bits and shaft sizes so often that changing collets is too much bother.  Either way, the tool is so much smoother running and quieter and better built than any of the Dremels that it's not even close.  I used to go through Dremels like crazy, but now not so much with the Proxxon.  Here's the one I use:

http://www.proxtools...3&idcategory=26

 

Here's the higher-priced one:

 

http://www.proxtools...0&idcategory=26

 

 

     I've heard that many use the very inexpensive rotary tools from Harbor Freight and similar and like them, but have no experience with them.

 

-john

[Dennis Krivacek]

Does anyone know if the Dremel Multi-Pro chuck will fit the Proxon?

[S.O. Watt]

Totally Proxxon here. I use the 12v one for easily 90% of my chassis building, I really like its small light vibration free qualities. I also have the larger one that typically sets in the Proxxon drill press over in my "machining center". I do use my band saw for heavy brass cutting/rough out of pieces, saving discs and extending tool life. I have foot switches at the power tool stations that are used most for convenience. I found that the Proxxon products are very high quality.

[team burrito]

get a black+decker tool from target for $31.39, better than any dremel on the market.

http://www.target.co...erm=rotary tool

[tonyp]

Thanks guys. I'll check them out.

[dc-65x]

Hi Tony,

 

If you want a Dremel replacement for your workbench, this is my pick:

 

 

 

[JimF]

I currently use the Black and Decker and I think it is adequate but I am not hugely impressed. The first one ate up the bearings in well under a year. I got it replaced and got another as well so I now have two. The Dremel adjustable chuck fits the B&D but seems to go out of true pretty fast (6 months?). I use the collet for cutting because it runs more true and the chuck for less critical stuff like sanding tire edges or polishing wire etc.The price is right on the BD but IMO it's not a great tool.

 

The Harbor Freight item that looks vaguely similar to the Proxxon is actually better than the BD. It is smoother, quieter and with the collet, the cutting disc runs more true than the BD but the adjustable chuck does not fit. The HF tool ran it's course in a couple years due to shorting in the power switch. Also, it appears that they no longer have collets for that tool so I scrapped it.

[bbr]

I have been using this. It is heavy, but I like that it has no cord.  Has good power, decent run time.

For delicate jobs, I use a Proxon 12v skinny

[SpeedyNH]

I have a Ryobi HT200VS that I like a lot, and a couple so-so ones that are generic brands, corded and cordless. 

The Dremel co. burned me badly a while back by refusing to supply critical (and poorly designed I might add) internal replacement parts like the couplings ("just buy a new tool" they said!). So I avoid theirs. 

speedy

[Mike Patterson]

Are all the tools mentioned above variable speed? I know the Foredom is, how about the others? Does anyone still make a single high speed dremel-type tool?

[John Streisguth]

I have a Ryobi that I have had for about 10-12 years.  Corded type, I just use the small chuck rather than collets. It does have adjustable speed.  Between work and home,I have found Ryobi products are far better than B&D.

[Dick]

Another vote for the Proxxon.  Great smooth running tool.  Have had one for 5+ years with zero problems.

[dc-65x]

One thing to consider about the Foredom is the slim hand piece feels like you're holding a scalpel in your hand.........a typical "Dremel" style tool is like holding a club or chain saw.

[tonyp]

Too many choices. Lol

[Bill from NH]

Last I knew, the Foredom units were manufactured  in the US by Blackstone Industries in CT. Power carvers use them extensively.

[Zippity]

Sadly, Foredom is almost 3 times the price of a Dremel over here

[Bill from NH]

Everyone pays for US quality.

[NSwanberg]

get a black+decker tool from target for $31.39, better than any dremel on the market.

http://www.target.co...erm=rotary tool

 

The B&D has some nice features but the one I have is not smooth through the rpm ranges. I will keep using it until it bites the dust but will probably go back to a Dremel.

[Steve Deiters]

Count me in as a Proxxon fanboy.  Best multi-purpose power tool I've ever used for this hobby and I've been in and out of the hobby since the mid-60's.

[MSwiss]

One thing to consider about the Foredom is the slim hand piece feels like you're holding a scalpel in your hand.........a typical "Dremel" style tool is like holding a club or chain saw.

We had a Foredom at Koford and I hated it because of the skinny metal handle.

Along with it frequently slipping in my hand, once it got hot, which seemed to be quickly, it stayed hot.

[tonyp]

Looks like I'll have to try proxxon. Anyone know if lowes handles this line. Also does Dremel junk fit?

Thank a again for helping a newcomer to chassis building. My current Dremel is one of the digital jobs. 8'years old and starting to really vibrate.

[Steve Deiters]

It has a Jacobs style chuck so everything is interchangeable and variable spped.  All the accessories I use are Dremel.  Like John H. said you can change over to different things (cut off disc to a very thin drill bit) in no time. 

 

I think I bought mine on Amazon.

[tonyp]

Thanks.

[Zippity]

What is a "Jacobs style chuck"?