Quality Dremel Style Tool?

[HomeTheaterMan]

Does anyone have any recommendations for a Dremel style tool that actually lasts for cutting metal? I rarely use mine, because I keep burning them up, but there are some times it just comes in handy. I really only use it for the metal cutting disks. It seems like I literally get 2-3 uses out of each one before it dies. That's doing simple stuff like cutting a single bolt, bushing, etc.

 

[Etchase]

I think you need a die cutter. Dremels are kind of known to be durable. I think you need the more capable tool. Makita makes what is thought to be the most rugged one. Model GDO800.

 

[PCustoms]

A Dremel is way too small to be cutting bolts and bushings, but even then I don't see how you're burning them out...

I think you need a die cutter.

What are you calling a "die cutter"?

 

[Aaron_W]

Weird, Dremel tools are generally pretty solid. I've got a few, some 20+ years old.

Agree with Pcustoms, if you are killing them maybe you are using them for work beyond their capability.

Rather than a handheld Dremel which is a light duty tool you should try something like a 3" cutoff tool, angle grinder or Foredom type flexible shaft tool which is kind of Dremel like in use but uses a much larger motor with a flexible shaft to power the tool head.

 

[Aaron_W]

What are you calling a "die cutter"?

The Makita he linked to is a die grinder.

 

[RoninB4]

Does anyone have any recommendations for a Dremel style tool that actually lasts for cutting metal?

-IMO the Dremel moto-tool barely works ok for around the house. For the garage or shop they flatly ****. A Dremel is sorts ok for cutting a #10 fastener but for anything 1/4" or above it's nearing the design limit and technique is important. Can it be done? Of course it can but I'd prefer not to. They're under powered, vibrate too much, and are poorly built for industrial applications. I agree with that you'll probably want a die grinder but you'll have to make decisions before purchase. Many of the electric die grinders are much larger than the Dremel, they almost require two hands to operate and are about 12" in length or longer. That's no big deal when using it in the open but what about when you have to cut a bolt in the engine bay or other area with limited working room? When I read "Dremel" I took it to mean a small, compact unit. There's nothing at all wrong with a unit like the Makita or other makes. It's a matter of how and where the application is. To me, your choices are:

Pneumatic- Compact, real bearings (instead of crappy bushings), less weight, higher speeds, right angle & straight through spindle, can be less expensive. Only problem with pneumatic tools is having the air compressor needed that's big enough to run them. I have several pneumatic type grinders and prefer the "pencil grinder" versions for most things I do/did.

Electric- Larger, heavier duty build than a Dremel, slower speed (RPM), moderately expensive for decent unit.

-Only other option besides those would be a handpiece driven by cable like a Foredom type unit. More expensive but a smaller handpiece than a full on die grinder like the Makita. Commonly used in industrial settings/duty and reasonably well built. Faster spindle speeds, better control in application, electric powered, more maneuverable that a Makita type.

 

[Cheep]

Look up die grinder and look up foredom then decide.

 

[zendriver]

https://www.harborfreight.com/6-amp-3-in-high-speed-electric-cut-off-tool-59248.html

 

[Leaflessshadetree]

The size of tehDremel tool is an advantage. The thin cut off wheels are also an advantage. I've often wanted larger diameter wheels. I did buy some Dereml cut off wheels that are 1 1/2" diameter but they fail where they attach to the shaft.

 

[PCustoms]

The Makita he linked to is a die grinder.

Thanks, didn't see the link (probably because it's not a link). That's also a die grinder not a die cutter.

I have a DeWalt version of that, and in the long list of dumb things that I put in it, I don't think it cut off wheel has ever been included. I can say that I specifically bought it for enlarging holes in quarter inch plate so that I wasn't beating up on my Dremel

 

[jar944]

A foredom (or clone) and a set of diamond and carbide burs..

 

[driftpin]

https://www.harborfreight.com/6-amp-3-in-high-speed-electric-cut-off-tool-59248.html

I think this would work for many uses.

The advantage of the Dremel is that its many bits/discs do many different things. Yes, they aren't made for all-day usage, but they are relatively inexpensive, have many attachments, are small-enough to fit in confined spaces, and you can also get the flex cable that gives you some freedom in the use of the tool. I usually leave the flex cable in-place, and only rarely use the motor hand-held unit alone.

I used the Makita too, it's more of a continuous use item, w/more torque. I've never had the need to use a Foredom, but that's a rugged tool, longer-lasting than a Dremel.

My oldest Dremel-style tool is > 60 years old, a Sears Roebuck die-cast case I got new as a kid. It is a back-up these days.

 

[neophyte]

The Dremel Tool is basically a small low powered “Die Grinder”
There are plenty of way higher powered “die grinders” than a Dremel Tool.

Dumore is one option, but the units are faitly expensive.
A Foredom fkex shaft grinder is another option, and tends to be the industry standard for jewelers, and others professions that need a compact die grinder for precision work, for long hours.
Foredoms come in various motor options, with different maximum speeds, and the flex shafts are available in different lengths, with different hand piece types.

There are also electric hand grinders from major power tool manufacturers, but these are usually based off the motors used for angle grinders, and tend to be somewhat large and heavy.

Pneumatic die grinders are relatively compact, and are available in much smaller more compact versions from some specialty companies, but you need a large enough air compressor to power the pneumatic die grinders.

There are also now cordless fie grinders, although I’m not overly familiar with these. Various power tool manufacturers make these in various size ranges, from the relatively compact 12v lithium battery types to a 24v FLEX version.

 

[Etchase]

Lots of suppliers of cut off disks for die grinders. The three inch disks are pretty large for 20,000 rpm in my experience. 2 inch ones aren’t much bigger than the Dremel. Dewalt, metabo and Makita make smaller units than the one I mentioned previously. I’m personally not a fan of the battery powered grinders. But as a step up from a Dremel, they are certainly that, as is the Foredom. Pneumatic ones are great if the air hose is not a problem, and you have a big enough compressor.

 

[zendriver]

I think this would work for many uses.

The advantage of the Dremel is that its many bits/discs do many different things. Yes, they aren't made for all-day usage, but they are relatively inexpensive, have many attachments, are small-enough to fit in confined spaces, and you can also get the flex cable that gives you some freedom in the use of the tool. I usually leave the flex cable in-place, and only rarely use the motor hand-held unit alone.

I used the Makita too, it's more of a continuous use item, w/more torque. I've never had the need to use a Foredom, but that's a rugged tool, longer-lasting than a Dremel.

My oldest Dremel-style tool is > 60 years old, a Sears Roebuck die-cast case I got new as a kid. It is a back-up these days.

Only mention this tool because the OP stated he was cutting bolts and bushings, which a Dremel style tool is not really suited for.

I have the $18 "Chicago Electric" version perfect for cutting bolts or small cuts in sheet metal, but agree no other functions of what the small interchangeable bit power tool could do.

 

[theoldwizard1]

Foredom with a flex shaft is the "top of the line" !

I like my Milwaukee rotary tool. Not really any stronger than a Dremel. If you want power, go with the Milwaukee M12 1/4" Straight Die Grinder (2486-20). You will have to get some kind of adapter to use Dremel sized tools.

 

[Aaron_W]

Thanks, didn't see the link (probably because it's not a link). That's also a die grinder not a die cutter.

I have a DeWalt version of that, and in the long list of dumb things that I put in it, I don't think it cut off wheel has ever been included. I can say that I specifically bought it for enlarging holes in quarter inch plate so that I wasn't beating up on my Dremel

Yeah, I almost went back to say referred to, rather than linked.

I've got a Hercules die grinder, certainly some general similarity to a Dremel, but I wouldn't be real comfortable using a cutting wheel in it.

I think this would work for many uses.

The advantage of the Dremel is that its many bits/discs do many different things. Yes, they aren't made for all-day usage, but they are relatively inexpensive, have many attachments, are small-enough to fit in confined spaces, and you can also get the flex cable that gives you some freedom in the use of the tool. I usually leave the flex cable in-place, and only rarely use the motor hand-held unit alone.

I used the Makita too, it's more of a continuous use item, w/more torque. I've never had the need to use a Foredom, but that's a rugged tool, longer-lasting than a Dremel.

My oldest Dremel-style tool is > 60 years old, a Sears Roebuck die-cast case I got new as a kid. It is a back-up these days.

This is excactly what I thinking, Bauer has both a corded and cordless version. Bigger and beefier than a Dremel, but still smaller and handier than a 4-1/2" angle grinder.

 

[Rockable]

I've had several Dremel tools over the years and most of my work is in metal. When I bought my last one, I bought the heavy duty model. It is heavier but it is more to my needs in mettal work.

4000-2/32 Corded Rotary Tools | Dremel

Do it all with just one tool. The key to a perfect result is having maximum control over your project.

www.dremel.com

 

[tool_scrounge]

Foredom tool. Can be pretty cheap on the used market.

 

[PCustoms]

Foredom tool. Can be pretty cheap on the used market.

I'm picturing someone under a car trying to cut suspension bolts/bushings out with that

 

[woody 73]

Yes, indeed for the home small shop a Foredom will fit your bill for small stuff.

Rotary Tools by Foredom Electric Co | Power Flex Shaft Rotary Tools

Foredom is the premier manufacturer of flexible shaft rotary tools serving jewelry manufacturing, woodcarving, industrial, aviation, firearms, high tech, scientific research, defense, military and other markets with innovative power rotary tool products, features and accessories.

www.foredom.net

On the other hand like some other GJ mentioned already ,you would need a larger set up to tackle heavy duty bolts.

 

[Aaron_W]

Foredom tool. Can be pretty cheap on the used market.

Harbor Freight used to have a cheap knock off that didn't look too bad, but they discontinued it. I had been hoping they would replace it with a Bauer or Hercules branded version, but its been about a year and nothing so far.

 

[Etchase]

If I remember correctly, the foredom I had was less than a two amp unit and the flex shaft isn’t a power booster. You can run the thing all day without ill effects though, not that I ever had the patience to do that.

 

[Crazyjake8493]

I've had the Milwaukee M12 "Dremel" tool for several years now. Haven't touched my corded Dremel in years. Just recently used it to cut off a few sway bar end links that wouldn't budge.

I use Dremel accessories on it. The EZ lock mandrel and cutting wheels work great.

If you're cutting bolts a lot, you likely want a die grinder instead.

 

[Jack_K]

Pneumatic die grinders have collets available to fit the small Dremel type attachments. My cheapest die grinder had the collet included.

Even the cheapest pneumatic die grinder you can find will likely work better than a Dremel.

 

[Winterborne]

The only Dremel I have burned up was a basic 100 series used mostly for cutting and grinding stainless.

The Milwaukee M12 Dremel has treated me well the last few years. Found that cutting wheels grind down quickly on steel, transitioned into grinding wheels with better results.

 

[HomeTheaterMan]

Thanks guys. Those Foredom tools look interesting and may be exactly what I need.
The problem with these 3" cutters and that initial Makita die grinder mentioned is the size. Those are way too big for what I need.

II have multiple other tools such as a 3" air cut off tool, etc. that I use 99% of the time I need to cut something. I only really use the Dremel on the rare occasion that I need a tiny cut off wheel to get into a very tight spot. The other day the Dremel's 1.5" cutting disks I had were even too big. I had to wear them down some before they'd even fit in the spot I was trying to cut.

Some of the smaller air die grinders look like they could possibly fit the bill as well, but I'm not sure how they are with a cut off wheel attached.

 

[vavet]

Dremel came out with a different type of cutting disc and mandrel a few years ago. Instead of the simple disc with a hole that you ran a screw through and into the mandrel, it was a twist lock sort of attachment.

EZ Lock | Dremel

Sign Up For Our Dremel Newsletter And Vue Program And Get A Free Ez Lock Mandrel & Accessory

www.dremel.com

the discs worked way better than the older style. im a big fan.

 

[Jgaz]

Foredom with a flex shaft is the "top of the line" !

I like my Milwaukee rotary tool. Not really any stronger than a Dremel. If you want power, go with the Milwaukee M12 1/4" Straight Die Grinder (2486-20). You will have to get some kind of adapter to use Dremel sized tools.

Milwaukee sells a 1/8” collet to use on their M12 Die Grinders.
Not cheap but when you need it…….

I used mine just the other day to help remove a broken tap.
The combination of the M12 grinder and an 1/8” shank carbide burr made the job almost easy.