tools? tools!

[bob_the_d]

i want to cut a case window.
but here's a question everyone asks...
dremel or jigsaw?
any thoughts?

[cack01]

It depends what kind of case it is. If it is aluminum then go dremel for sure. If it is a heavy thicker metal, then a jig saw would be your best bet. Overall a dremel is the best for an active modder, but trying to cut a large window in a steel case could end up costing a lot and taking for ever. A jig saw will do it in about 2 minutes once your good at it. But don't use it on aluminum, b/c the jigsaw will rip it apart.

[Oni]

You'll also wanna have access to various files and other attachments for your Dremel if you use a Dremel. To smooth out your edges.

I used a die grinder, but not everybody has access to industrial tools like I do :D

[cack01]

Most dremels come in kits, so you should have a deburring tool and all the other things oni sugests. But I would get some reinforced cut off wheels as oppossed to using the ones in the kits. If you don't get a kit, just spend $2 on a deburring tool.

[Element-Xero]

if you are using a dremel DEFINATLY invest in the cutting wheel set. Its like 12 bucks at home depot and it comes with about 40 regular wheels and 5 reinforced. just 5 reinforced wheels costs 10 bucks so the value is apparent.

[JFettig]

dont bother with the regular cuttnig wheels, i broke probably 10 of them.... before i got any cutting... spend the extra cash to get the reinforced ones, youll actually save a little in the long run...

[CrystalMethod]

Originally posted by cack01
It depends what kind of case it is. If it is aluminum then go dremel for sure. If it is a heavy thicker metal, then a jig saw would be your best bet. Overall a dremel is the best for an active modder, but trying to cut a large window in a steel case could end up costing a lot and taking for ever. A jig saw will do it in about 2 minutes once your good at it. But don't use it on aluminum, b/c the jigsaw will rip it apart.

If you have the right blade in the jigsaw you shouldn't have a problem. For cutting something as large as a window, I'd use a jigsaw if one is availible. Using a dremel stresses it, and will cause it to burn out prematurely. I'm not saying this will happen anytime soon, but I like my tools to last.

[Penguin4x4]

As long as you have the piece clamped down properly, a jigsaw is fine. :burn:

[KeyboardCowboy]

Originally posted by maskedgeek
dont bother with the regular cuttnig wheels, i broke probably 10 of them.... before i got any cutting... spend the extra cash to get the reinforced ones, youll actually save a little in the long run...


Either that, or get a "Diamond Cutting Wheel", they slice through almost anything, makes cutting your case easy as hell.

Reinforced cutting wheels are another option if you don't want to spend the money for a Diamond Wheel, they work well but expect to go though a few to get a fully modded case. I was able to cut the following with 5 Discs, 4 80mm Holes, 2 60mm holes and cut out the grills on the front and back of the case.