Today, we live in a world of convenience – almost everything we want can be ordered from the palm of our hand, right from our phones and laptops. What’s more, if something breaks, all we have to do is call in an expert and get the item fixed right away.
But think about it – how much does such an approach cost you in the long run? What about the materials we waste, the time and inconvenience of calling somebody again and again, and the inevitable dependency on the experts?
The DIY Boom
Of course, there are some repairs and processes best left at the hand of the experts. However, the same digital connections that allow us to buy and call for experts are also places for us to learn to become independent and create and repair things on our own. Doing things by yourself can give you a sense of achievement that can be exhilarating while also saving you time and money.
To take up such tasks by yourself, however, you would need some important, one-time investment tools. And at the top of this list would be a rotary tool.
What Are Rotary Tools?
In the simplest terms, rotary tools are small battery or wire-powered handheld devices with a small spindle that rotates at a very quick speed. A variety of attachments can be linked to this spindle. This means that a single rotary tool can carry out a lot of tasks. Some of the tasks include –
Polishing
An attachment such as a brush or polishing wheel can help add the shine back to virtually any surface, no matter the amount of grease or grime stuck to it. This method is usually aided by a polishing compound so that the surface is cleaned thoroughly and not impacted by friction.
Carving
For those looking to develop a new, physically challenging hobby, the carving is the way to go. A rotary tool can work precise movements into any surface with the right attachment, be it wood, plastic, or metal. And carving here not just means the broad strokes – with practice, you can etch some really fine things with the help of a rotary tool.
Cutting
Rotary tools mean no more shoving things together, hoping they will fit. Though it takes a little practice, you can easily cut through wood and other materials in a pin-straight line via these tools. This cutting process is often the first step to any DIY, be it building a new shelf or constructing a whole new shed.
Grinding
The versatility of rotary tools means that items can both be given an edge, or smoothened into shape. So that beautiful table with razor edges that you fear? Whittle it right down and save your shins. Many also use their rotary tools to keep their best kitchen knives on point.
Glass Work
It is possible even to work with glass, and cut it and engrave it just like wood or metal. The only catch is that one would need a diamond wheel, as normal attachments would simply break the glass. With the right attachment, however, the only thing that limits you would be imagination, and of course, practice.
Thus, a rotary tool can carry out a number of different activities without fatiguing or risking injury to the hands and wrist. Now that you know about this wonderful tool, you may be eager to get your hands on one. The question now arises about which particular brand you should go for.
The Two Titans
All of this convenience of building and creating that you can today easily purchase and use came from the mind of a single, once-penniless Austrian immigrant to America – Albert J. Dremel. Granted 55 patents during this life, Dremel’s self-named company began to market the Multi-Tool in 1935, a rotating tool with multiple attachments lauded by both experts and hobbyists.
Even today, some of the best rotary tools come from the Dremel label. Of these, two, in particular, stand out – the Dremel 4000 and the Dremel 8220. Here is a handy table that breaks down the main features of these two models so that you can decide what suits you the best
Table could not be displayed.As you can thus see, both of these tools have some staples that have come to define the Dremel brand and its products. Simultaneously, they have some major and subtle differences in power, weight, and features that make them more suited to some people and work than others.
Analysis of Features
As you can see above, these two models from the Dremel line are packed with features, and some of them are quite similar. You can make the best decision for yourself by considering some of the points listed below –
Type of Work
A toolbox that is not adaptive to your needs is as good as having no tool at all. So before you decide to lock down on a box, think about why you need to use it. If you will use it only for repairs and patches around the house, then the cordless Dremel 8200 would be good, as you will not have to worry about having a plug point close by.
On the other hand, if you are a hobbyist with a dedicated work table, the attachments and continuous power supply of the Dremel 4000 may be what you need, especially when it comes with an airflow mechanism to prevent overheating.
RPM Requirement
The Dremel 4000 is capable of achieving a greater RPM than the Dremel 8200. This can be a significant factor when working on certain types of jobs. Higher RPM also comes at a cost, which includes greater friction, more heat, and the requirement for more precise handling. So if you are opting for a Dremel 4000, make sure that you have use for its highest range too – otherwise, the more portable Dremel 8200 may be the way to go.
Analyze the Accessories
Both of these tools can get the job done, but the accessories they use may differ. Thus, you should take some time out to go over the accessory list each of these items has and match them to the jobs and tasks that you are most likely to engage in. After all, what would be the point of having a delightful and expensive toolbox if you only end up using some of the attachments?
Take Some Reviews In
One of the best ways to choose the right tool is to ask others who use these regularly. It’s a bonus if they are engaged in the same hobby as you or are working the same jobs around their own home. Talking to people can help with the technical aspect and the more human side of machine handling, such as the fatigue to hands and wrists, the noise, and the actual impact the tools have with various surfaces.
Decide Sacrifices
Both of these tools have great benefits, but they also have some drawbacks. If not having continuous power is not acceptable to you, then the Dremel 8200 will not work for you. But if you have some accessories from other Dremel models, you would love to employ, and then the 4000 model won’t work. Be sure not just to measure the pros but also to stack the cons against each other before deciding.
With these tips and pointers in mind, you should get the Dremel rotary tool that you need. Remember that a rotary tool will likely be the most versatile and used option of all the tools in your box. So, do not just jump and buy the first tool you come across, or even the one that has the highest review. Follow the tips above and make sure that the tool fits you, and not the other way around. Take some time and read through this guide thoroughly, and you will surely be able to get the right choice.