About Dremels, branded and generic

[bacteria]

I intended to spend this morning on my project, however, a few seconds into cutting some perspex/plexiglass, by generic dremel (a Clarke) packed up, the motor came off center and packed up (after inspecting fault). Only used this tool for about a month in ernest! In contrast, my original Dremel 295 took just over 2 years before it packed up, which is fine.

I have seen and used a couple of other generic dremel-type tools, like one my Father has - after a couple of minutes use lightly cutting some metal, the motor started to smoke! What rubbish!

So, I am now the owner of a Dremel 300, with flexi-shaft entender; cost £60 but has a standard 2 year repair guarantee; I won't buy a non Dremel dremel again; Dremels seem to be properly made to last.

So, my question is this, have you guys had similar experiences with generic dremels, similar good experiences with branded Dremels; what type have you used and what do you think of them? Do you also use it/them frequently for cutting hard materials (plastic, metal, etc)?

[fastbilly1]

Yes I have. All of the standard Dremel knockoffs I have used have been crap. DOA, smoking motor, loose bit holders, etc, just all around crap. Now I have used some Dremel knockoffs for the specialty types, ie the pen and pistol grip varieties, that were ok. Not as good as the Dremel no, but at half the price and I only need it once or twice it was worth the risk.

If none of that made sense, buy Dremel everything. There are some competitors that are close, but its not worth the risk.

[gtmtnbiker]

I have a Dremel (variable speed) that's about 6-7 years old. No issues with it. I've used it to cut sheet metal in a cramped space. It was slow going but eventually got done. I'm careful with my tools and won't burn it out.

It's been quite handy and worth the investment for me. I'm somewhat of a tool collector which is a guy thing.

[Hobie-wan]

I haven't used a real Dremel, but yeah, I cheaped out too and bought a store brand knockoff. Its really hard to get bits to center properly in it. Usually cutting discs end up lopsided and bounce around until they grind themselves even. I'm making do for now, but will definitely buy a real Dremel next time.

[corn619]

I bought one from Harbor Freight and while a little under powered, its great for cutting little things like plastic, wood and thin metals. I've had it for a year with no issues.