In the search for a new cutting tool to replace the Dremel 300, here are a few attributes we're looking for (see a few specific tools outlined below):
Variable speeds (ideally about 10-30,000 RPM.
More power than the ~1.2A Dremel.
Collet for bits up to 1/4" diameter.
Similar price range to the $60 Dremel 300.
Similar weight to the 18oz. Dremel 300 (extra weight requires an over-engineered gantry).
Widely available for purchase.
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Ed Ford
recommendsused the 3Speed spindle from http://www.cnconabudget.com/- Pro:
- It's a real spindle
- 3 speeds
- ~$100 is a reasonable price point
- Con:
- harder to get (their production is limited)
- optimized for PCB milling; how will it handle other materials?
- looks like a small collet - hard to tell & no specs!
- Pro:
- Rotozip RZ2000
- Pro:
- Variable speed
- 6-amp motor; pretty powerful
- up to ¼" bit
- Specifically made for a range of materials
- Widely available
- Con:
- Very heavy; 8lbs
- Expensive: ~$150
- Has flex shaft attachment that's limited to ⅛" bit & lower RPM
- Not sure what collet/chuck style this uses; may be proprietary
- Pro:
- Dremel 4000
- Pro:
- Variable speed
- widely available
- Cheap: ~$70
- 1.6-amp motor; ~.5 amps more than the 300
- About the same weight as 300 (~18 oz)
- Uses a collet
- Con:
- Limited to 1/8" bit
- Not sure if the power jump is enough to matter
- Pro:
- WeCheer HD Flexshaft Power Carver
- Pro:
- Flexshaft eliminates weight problem
- Variable Speed (up to 26,000 RPM)
- 1/4", 1/8" and 3/32" Collets
- powerful; ⅓ horsepower
- Con:
- Very expensive; almost $200
- Not sure how flex shaft will perform
- Not widely available
- Pro:
-
Dewalt Compact Trim Router
- Pro:
- Variable Speed: 16,000 - 27,000rpm
- up to 1/4" collet
- 7 Amps; very powerful
- Widely available
- Con
- Heavy; just over 4#
- Expensive; ~$140
- Pro: