So I'm about to take the plunge and get a Dremel tool. Went on Homedepot.com and had a peak at what they had. Looks like there a choice between corded and cordless. Does anyone have any recommendations for/against cordless? It sure would be nice to not deal w/ a cord, but not at the expense of power (enter Tim Allen grunt here)

So I'm about to take the plunge and get a Dremel tool. Went on Homedepot.com and had a peak at what they had. Looks like there a choice between corded and cordless. Does anyone have any recommendations for/against cordless? It sure would be nice to not deal w/ a cord, but not at the expense of power (enter Tim Allen grunt here)

Nothing against the cordless, it has its purpose, but it lacks power compared to the corded, and the batteries run out of power relatively quickly, too fast for most bike related Dremel jobs. Also, look at the Craftsman rotary tool at Sears or Orchard Supply Hardware. I have one, and as far as I can tell, its a Dremel with the Craftsman label on it. They look the same, have the same power ratings, and all of my Dremel brand accessories work on it, including the saw guides. I only paid $29 for it on sale. Obviously it's a little more regularly, but still cheaper than the Dremel.

So I'm about to take the plunge and get a Dremel tool. Went on Homedepot.com and had a peak at what they had. Looks like there a choice between corded and cordless. Does anyone have any recommendations for/against cordless? It sure would be nice to not deal w/ a cord, but not at the expense of power (enter Tim Allen grunt here)

Definitely get the corded versions. These days the battery versions are actually pretty good but the corded version offers you better power that doesn't diminish while you're in the middle of a task.

Joe

Nothing against the cordless, it has its purpose, but it lacks power compared to the corded, and the batteries run out of power relatively quickly, too fast for most bike related Dremel jobs. Also, look at the Craftsman rotary tool at Sears or Orchard Supply Hardware. I have one, and as far as I can tell, its a Dremel with the Craftsman label on it. They look the same, have the same power ratings, and all of my Dremel brand accessories work on it, including the saw guides. I only paid $29 for it on sale. Obviously it's a little more regularly, but still cheaper than the Dremel.

I can only echo DFM here - check the corded Craftsman tool. Sears Craftsman tools have a lifetime warranty (not positive it applies to powertools, but it should), and the corded versions have more power and a longer lifetime. The cord isn't that inconvenient.
I've had my Craftsman rotary tool for geez, 8-10 years now, and use it all the time. Cutting housing, cables, slotting frozen bolts, drilling (though a drill works better for thicker items or larger holes), polishing, you name it. You're only limited by the bits you buy - while you're at it, pick up an assortment pack for basic cutting, polishing, and grinding, and also get some fiber-reinforced cutoff wheels. The standard wheels are pretty fragile, and there's nothing like a thin slice of abrasive flying at you to make you thank your safety glasses. Speaking of which, get a pair and wear them. Dorky, yes, but two eyes are better than one.
The fiber wheels last a long, long time, and only get retired after they wear down too small to cut through housing. More pricey up front, but definitely the wise investment.

I kinda had a hunch that would be the way to go, but wanted to make sure first. And thanks for the tips on the Craftsman. I'll check that out. As for safety glasses, I agree completely. I'm actually an Occupational Safety "professional" by degree and I've seen plenty of eye injuries to make me appreciate the value of wearing a eye protection. As for rotary tools specifically... wow... you might be surprised at the volume of injury these suckers deal out on unsuspecting users! Probably the most dangerous tool in a shop if ya ask me!

I can only echo DFM here - check the corded Craftsman tool. Sears Craftsman tools have a lifetime warranty (not positive it applies to powertools, but it should), and the corded versions have more power and a longer lifetime. The cord isn't that inconvenient.
I've had my Craftsman rotary tool for geez, 8-10 years now, and use it all the time. Cutting housing, cables, slotting frozen bolts, drilling (though a drill works better for thicker items or larger holes), polishing, you name it. You're only limited by the bits you buy - while you're at it, pick up an assortment pack for basic cutting, polishing, and grinding, and also get some fiber-reinforced cutoff wheels. The standard wheels are pretty fragile, and there's nothing like a thin slice of abrasive flying at you to make you thank your safety glasses. Speaking of which, get a pair and wear them. Dorky, yes, but two eyes are better than one.
The fiber wheels last a long, long time, and only get retired after they wear down too small to cut through housing. More pricey up front, but definitely the wise investment.
...just the Craftsman labeled hand tools.

Go with the corded and get the long flexible shaft, it's handy.

The last thing you want to deal with is having to charge that damn thing. Go with the corded model and have onle less thing to remember!

And got me a corded Craftsman.