AusBonsai

Hi guys,

Im thinking about buying a die grinder/router.

I have looked at the dremals, which are cheap enough and everyone seems to have used one from one time to another. But there are also the makita die grinders and i am sure there are others.

My questions are

- what are the most common collect sizes, 1/8", 1/4" 5/16" etc
- which is the best all round tool
- what features are recommended for general carving i.e variable speed, flexible shaft attachment for fine work etc

any other point people want to raise that are important please do.

Hi Gareth. I purchased a makita die grinder off ebay for about $85, keep an eye out, they pop up from time to time. 5/16 (6mm) is the best size because bits are more readily available in yhat size. I use various router bits in mine that are 6mm. Mine only has single speed, but I find it ok for what I need. cheers, miyagiman.

Miyagiman, that Bonsai looks beautiful! I must say I really don't know how it managed to survive such an intense carving. Looks great!

I'm a big fan of the dremel as it has muilti-purposes around the home, and can be used for varied applications.

hi miyagiman,

do you mean 1/4" bits are more common as this is 6mm, 5/16" is closer to 8mm.

You are right Gareth, 1/4 '' is 6 mm. that is the size I meant. All the wood carved on this tree was already dead, the live vein was not carved at all. miyagiman.