Using a Dremel...

[Grim 10+ year member]

I searched but didnt find everything I needed...

Im using the highest end dremel they offer.

I have the cutting bits(like the ones for the rotozip). I bought those because I remembered the old infomercials. But after looking some more I found Router Bits for the dremel.

I have the attachment that allows me to use it as a router with adj depth from 1/4 to 1in...

So my question is..Should I use these to cut circles, or buy a 1/8 or 1/4 Straight router bit...

Also I know with the router bits, to do 3-5 passes on 3/4in MDF. If I use the cutting bit can go I go all the way through or should I do a few passes with that as well...

Im going to use it for carpeting as well...I have an idea similar to the one used in the Carpet tutorial on here, so I would need to be able to make a 2.8in slot...would the Cutting bit be ok for that?

Click to read more...

 

[sqhertz 5,000+ posts]

i kinda wondered the same thing. we sell these 'all-in-one cutting tools' at sears and they have router atatchments as well.

anyone use em?

 

[Grim 10+ year member]

Well I just tried it out on some scrap...and if I wasn't a dumb ***(I need a new collet to hold these cutting bits in) then it cuts perfect..I mean it just slid through 3/4 MDF like it was butter....then the bit started slipping as its not tight enough with this collet...

Note to self...1/16 bit doesn't hold well in 1/8th collet...

 

[NeverEnuffBass 10+ year member]

When I was using a dremel to cut 3/4" MDF I used to burn up bits all the time. Make many passes increasing depth just a bit each time and your good.

 

[helotaxi 5,000+ posts]

Or just buy an inexpensive router to do it right.

 

[Grim 10+ year member]

Or just buy an inexpensive router to do it right.

Well thanks but that doesnt help one bit now does it...

If the dremel works for now, why buy a new router. I have my eyes set on one but its expensive and I dont plan to purchase it untill summer. (I have my reasons)

Before I made the first cut I decided to go out and measure the back once more...Holy shit, I guess I didnt realize the sheer size of this box untill I took everything out of my cargo area and layed down the tape...And then compared it to my old box...

Guess I wont be making any trips with 4 people and luggage..

 

[helotaxi 5,000+ posts]

My point was even the best tool will produce substandard results if it is the wrong tool for the job. I used a RotoZip type thing for a bit and then moved up to a basic inexpensive plunge router that I only use for cutting circles (I have a router table for pretty much everyting else) and the difference in results is night and day.

The main reason that I wouldn't use a Dremel is that the motor on the Dremel wasn't meant for the load that continuous use with a plunge cutting bit in MDF will place on it. It will heat up, and shorten the life of the tool.

Just my $0.02

 

[baseballer1100 5,000+ posts]

i agree. The dremel is the wrong tool.

 

[Grim 10+ year member]

So Ill kill the dremel with one circle? Cause thats all im planning on useing it for..

 

[helotaxi 5,000+ posts]

One circle? Go for it.

 

[phyphoestilic 5,000+ posts]

So u bought the most expensive dremel tool for just one circle...... could've just bought a cheap router, hell u could've probably just rented a router.... I got a Ryobi router that came with 6 bits for $60 at home Depot, works like a charm.

 

[Grim 10+ year member]

So u bought the most expensive dremel tool for just one circle...... could've just bought a cheap router, hell u could've probably just rented a router.... I got a Ryobi router that came with 6 bits for $60 at home Depot, works like a charm.

Where did I say that? I said I own the highest end dremel..I use it for ALOT of things... And as I said, I dont want a cheap one. I have my eyes set on one, and im waiting to buy it because I may not have to buy it at all...

Helotaxi:

Yes Just one cut for my 18in...

This will be my only box build until we get into the new house, where ill be able to set up my tools in my workshop...

 

[Ctminime 10+ year member]

give it a try see what happens

 

[Grim 10+ year member]

Well Im gunna try, Like i said, it cut through this MDF like it was butter and that was all the way down...

So can anyone answer me?

Do i want to use the cutting bit or a straight Router Bit?

 

[helotaxi 5,000+ posts]

Cutting bit. Could probably go it in one pass. The straight router bit will load the motor up more and will require a ton of passes for a cut through. More passes means more chances for the pivot to slip and FUBAR that whole thing. Also I wouldn't try to use a 1/4" straight cut router bit in a Dremel, period. I won't even use one in my router. What you might be able to use though is a 1/4" spiral upcut router bit. Less tool loading, easier on the motor, less chatter, cleaner cut in my experience. Works the same as the Rotozip style cutting bit, but is thicker, and thus stiffer making it less prone to flexing and breaking. Also because it is a larger piece of metal and has more cutting area, it will be less prone to clogging, overheating and burning up. That's a big deal with MDF.