Which Dremel/other tools

[Elif Tymes]

What brand/specs should I look for in selecting a dremel to mod my computer cases? Does it matter really? Any other tips and hints for good tools to use for modding?

Basically I want to put in a blow hole, and possibly some other stuff, some of which has to do with plexiglass.

What would you guys recommend?

(Sorry if this is the wrong place, its not specifically about cooling, as I know how to position holes, etc. I just want to know what to spend on a high quality dremel/whatever else I need to cut apart my rig)

[electrorcamd]

I would get one made by Dremel. Look for one that has variable speed, probably like 5000 to 35,000 rpm. Also try to get one maybe with the Flex-Shaft attachment; that might make it easier for some things. As for the actual bits and things like that you should use, get several of the heavy duty / fiberglass cutting wheels, especially if the case is made of steel. I think that is basically all you need. It also almost has to be a corded model, as the cordless models don't last very long before they need to be recharged, and they don't really have the power to cut cases.
When cutting plexiglass, I think you have to use a slower speed to do the cutting, otherwise you can melt or otherwise damage the plexi.
Edit: You will also need several sanding drums, both the rough and smoother drums.

[Flip-Mode]

To be fair, I can't reccomend the one made by Dremel as I think its over priced.
I got a Hunday one with speeds from 5K to 30K and its working flawlessly, I worked with it for over an hour non stop cutting trough a steel case and it didn't even get warm. I am using genuine Dremel attachments though because I can't really find any other brand. I also hear allot of good things about the Black&Decker one.
But what ever you buy use only quality attachments.

[ajrettke]

Well I went shopping a year back for a rotary tool, and I remembered I could get a black&decker for 40 bucks which had a 2.0 A motor and felt really sturdy and well constructed or a 60 dollar .6 A Dremel which felt like I could crush it in my hands. Kinda obvious which one I bought. (both had the same options...well kinda the Dremel was 20k max RPM, B&D was 30k IIRC)

Get a corded variable speed one though. The battery ones just can't put out the juice for quality cutting.
For attatchment they're aren't many manufacturers like Flip mentioned. The only thing I can say is if you cut steel use those reinforced discs, otherwise you'll be changing those little bity sand paper ones once every 1/4" of cutting.

[Odie812]

Can the models spoken for above be purchased at the typical Lowes/Home Depot kind of store? I too am searching for a dremel and would prefer not to mail order.

Thanks much,

Odie :)

[electrorcamd]

I bought my Dremel at Wal-Mart for about 50 dollars, with a case and a Dremel-Lite. I was thinking of buying a B&D one, but couldn't really find them anywhere. I am pretty sure you can get them at Lowe's/Home Depot too. When you buy the attachments though, try to buy the Dremel ones as they are good and fairly cheap. I've never used any other brand because I can't find them anywhere else, and it says to use only attachments made by Dremel.
My Dremel feels sturdy and doesn't get too warm unless you are using a high rpm or press too hard.
Edit: This was my one hundredth post.

[Flip-Mode]

Go to your local HomeDepot, and remember to search all those little hardware shops you have in your town before you buy.
Remember, smart shopping saves you money to buy hardware you screw up!

[Elif Tymes]

LOL@Flip-mode! Yep! my thoughs exactly! I'm gonna test out on a different case before I try anything. Anyways, thank you all for the advice!

One more question though, can I use a dremet to cut screw holes in the case?

[Flip-Mode]

You mean just drill a hole? Yeah but the drill bit you recive is tiny and you will need to buy a bigger one that will suit your needs.

[SavageBasher]

One more question though, can I use a dremet to cut screw holes in the case?

Use a drill press if you can. If not, then a regular drill will work. A dremel is made for speed, not torque.