ForedomK.5240 Woodcarving Kit

I do inlay work from time to time and have used many different approaches, from knives and hand chisels, to a Dremel in a router base. Feeling the need to improve the process and try some power carving, I picked up a used Foredom model CC, which, when paired with the right hand piece and router base, worked better than the Dremel, but was still a bit lacking in the power department. I tried an obsolete model S, which turned out to be a cheap copy; not a genuine American made Foredom. It was disappointing at best. Not wanting to get outbid or end up with another knock-off, I bought this Foredom kit with the SR motor. When it arrived, I checked the shaft for grease, connected it to my Stew-Mac router base and got to work. This SR has more power and top speed than the other motors combined. It does the job with ease and made it pure pleasure. Later, I put on the 44T hand piece that came in the kit and one of the carving bits. It ran strong and did not stall no matter what I tried. This kit is going to last and make me happy for a very long time. I just wish I had bought this one in the first place, instead of all the others. It would have saved a lot of time, money, and frustration.

I've been through 2 Dremel tools in the last couple of years and finally did a bit of research on rotary tools.As a hobbyist blacksmith and bladesmith, I use this on metal more than wood. However this kit came with the handle I wanted and was less expensive than buying the individual pieces.While this doesn't offer the same high max speed as something like the Dremel, I find that with the torque provided by this motor, you generally don't need the extra speed to get the job done.I don't want to take anything away from the Dremel product. It's solid, especially for the price. I used 4000 series Dremel tools before getting this and they are a fraction of the cost and generally work quite well. I do find, whether used hand-help or with a flex shaft attachment, the Dremel does pull a bit harder than the Foredom appears to, at least so far. The Dremel Fortiflex may be a more apples to apple comparison, but I've never used one.Some folks have complained about the process of changing bits on the Foredom, and that's a fair complaint, but I would say that if that's your only issue, then you can correct that by getting a different handpiece. Foredom offers several chuck, collet, and quick change hand pieces that will probably address your needs. I, personally, don't change tools frequently enough that it's an issue for me.

I went back and forth on whether I should buy this or just stick with buying a Dremel (again). I had a Dremel a few months ago, used it briefly and then returned it to the big box store (orange one) because it just wasn't powerful enough for my project/task. Fast forward a few months and then I'm in a position where I need another rotary tool. I was looking for the "best dremel/rotary tool" and a forum post mentioned a Foredom. I had never heard of them before, and decided to check them out... wow... pricey is all I can say. I looked at the various models, mulled it over, and decided to pass on it and put my project on hold.I finally reached a point where I needed a rotary tool and had to finish my project. So buy a cheaper dremel or the more expensive Foredom? Well... I went with the Foredom. For the price of the Dremel 4000 I was looking at spending close to $90 after taxes. Sure I got a lot of bits, but the time I spent trying the other one which I returned, I burned up two bits (I had paid for them outside of the set and didn't return those obviously).The Foredom has an all metal housing for the motor, and it's 1/6hp. The tool holder is excellent as well, all metal and doesn't feel like cheap plastic crap that you find on cheaper/more common rotary tools. The quick release tool/handle is excellent too, just pop it off and switch to another one (if you have one). This could come in handy if you're switching between bits frequently, though for my uses I'll stick with the one and just switch bits.I just set it up and started using it today to test on PVC pipe as well as wood, but haven't done much more than that yet. It's easy to use, and VERY quiet.One word about the bits that are included. The purple headed bits that look like spikes or morning stars are actually metal, NOT plastic like I had assumed when buying it.

I do a TON of woodcarving everyday and was really on the fence about purchasing this. But after I got this thing opened and hooked it up it BLEW my mind! (Find Foredom carving videos on my YouTube channel @ Cornelius Creations)Pros:-A TON of torque at any speed.-Does not bog down like the dremel or other rotary tools. (Not saying dremel is bad, just saying for my heavy duty use there is NO comparison)-Very smooth handpiece-Many different handpieces for available purchase-USA madeCons:Not any at all!Bottom Line:You wont regret purchasing this. These Foredom's are workhorses and will last many years!

A very nice tool at a fair price. I'm just starting wood carving, and wanted to use this in addition to knife carving. The motor has plenty of power. The only downside I see is the dust. You will be covered with grinding/sanding dust in short order. A dust collector will be a valuable thing to have.

Fast and easy!