On 2012-02-02, Dave Plowman (News) wrote:

In article ,
Adam Funk wrote:
I'm thinking of getting a Dremel or Dremel-like rotary tool for taking
stubborn things apart, improvising spare parts, making a mess, etc.

Among other things, I've seen some sets at Maplin in the £25 to £32
price range (their codes N52FX, N14BG, N60GR), but I don't recognise
the brands so I wonder if they're any good. A genuine Dremel 8200
from screwfix.com is £100.

Comments on brands & quality? Other recommendations?

Are the blades & such interchangeable between brands?

I see that the Dremel 8200 only comes with one battery, but it's a
Li-Ion, so that shouldn't be a problem, right?

If you dash down to Lidl, you might find one of their own brand ones left,
for under 20 quid. Low voltage with transformer, rather than battery - but
given it will usually be used at the bench, not a problem. It's excellent
value for money - unlike Dremel where you're paying for the name and
advertising.

Interesting. I've been trying to buy quality rather than quantity
over the past few years; the Dremel name really isn't worth it?