[Jacka]

I've decided to do some case modifications, and was wondering whether to get a 300 or 400 series Dremel tool.

Post your opinions, cheers.

 

[radodrill]

I find that the most important factors to consider are to be sure that it's variable speed and what attachments are included. The flex-shaft is very handy and the circle cutter is often useful as well.

 

[Jacka]

Do you see any advantage in having a digitally adjustable speed as opposed to a normal switch?

 

[coffeejunky]

Go for the 400 if you can afford it. That circle/straight edge guide will be mighty handy.

 

[DiHydrogenMonOxide]

An analogue infinitely variable switch will work just as well as a digital, and get the 400 series if you can afford it like has been said before.

 

[Jacka]

Do you think it would be wiser to buy the base model and add bits that I'd need, or go for the deluxe version with every type of attachment available?

I'd guess the former, as I don't have many uses for the tool on an every day basis.

 

[Spart]

Quote:

Originally Posted by DiHydrogenMonOxide An analogue infinitely variable switch will work just as well as a digital, and get the 400 series if you can afford it like has been said before.

BEWARE! The 400 is a good Dremel but it heats up FAST. I just killed mine I think. I ordered some replacement brushes for it but I may have to buy another unit. When it starts to get hot stop and let it cool. It's annoying because it heats up alot and really fast.

 

[coffeejunky]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jacka Do you think it would be wiser to buy the base model and add bits that I'd need, or go for the deluxe version with every type of attachment available? I'd guess the former, as I don't have many uses for the tool on an every day basis.

It depends on what you plan to do. For example if you are planning to do a case mod like cut fan holes or a window in your case then the more accessories the better. But if its just for cable management holes and such then just get the base model.
BTW a step drill bit and a decent drill will do a better job for cable management holes IMO -
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/POWERCRAFT-3-P...QQcmdZViewItem

 

[radodrill]

Oftentimes the combo packs are less expensive than buying the parts individually; so I'd say decide what accessories you need then if buying a combo that includes several of them is cheaper than the base plus those included accessories then get the combo. I think that the combo with the circle cutter and flex shaft is well worth it.

 

[Jacka]

Ok, thank you all very much for your advice.

 

[Caramanos2000]

I bought a champion rotary tool kit at sears. Has been great to be, been using it to mod a few cases and paintball guns. Dremel compatible and adjustable speeds. It was like $45 for the whole kit

 

[CattleRustler]

without doubt, 400
if it gets too hot or overheats, its being used improperly

 

[Jacka]

Do any Brits know where I might get one cheaply?

 

[Crazy9000]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jacka Do any Brits know where I might get one cheaply?

Local hardware store?

.

 

[Jacka]

I'll have a look around for some in town.

I've only been at university here for about a month.

 

[Spart]

Quote:

Originally Posted by CattleRustler without doubt, 400 if it gets too hot or overheats, its being used improperly

Huh? Cutting a straight line and not putting pressure behind the tool (Letting it do the cutting like it says in the manual) is improper use? Read up. Tons of people have overheating issues with the XPR.

 

[coffeejunky]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jacka Do any Brits know where I might get one cheaply?

http://www.google.co.uk/products?q=d...=next&start=30

http://www.google.co.uk/products?hl=...&sa=N&start=20

You may get a good second-hand one off eBay.

 

[CattleRustler]

I dont have to "read up", I have cut miles of steel and aluminum with my xpr 400 and I havent overheated it, or had a problem. But I do let it cool down a couple minutes between cuts, so if thats what you meant (continuous usage) then I guess youre right about it being able to overheat. I just havent let that happen. My apologies.

 

[radodrill]

CR is right, if the Dremels are used continuously for extended periods of time they can easily overheat; but if you take a break at regular intervals and let it cool down a bit it's fine.

 

[spaceballsrules]

All Dremel models will overheat if you don't give them a break from time to time. This applies to the 200, 300, and 400 models.