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The Dremel 3000 is a corded rotary multi-tool with variable speed control. Like the other tools from range you can use the Dremel 3000 for a variety of tasks such as drilling, cutting, grinding and polishing. The Dremel 3000 comes packaged with various sets of accessories so you need to take that into consideration when comparing prices.

Specifications:

  • Motor: 130W
  • Speed: 5,000 – 33,000 RPM
  • Voltage both 120v and 240v versions are available.

    The EZ Twist collet system holds the tools firmly and comes with standard 1/8in collet although other sizes are available. There is a built in spindle lock which means tightening and loosening is easily done. The collet system can also be swapped with a keyless three jaw chuck which is a separate accessory. I’ve found that the collets grip more tightly than the chuck but the chuck is useful when you have a task where there are frequent tool changes with different sizes shanks. The simplicity of the collets means they are also less likely to get clogged with the dust generated when grinding or cutting.

    At just over 1.2lb with a tool installed it is quite heavy in the hand so is best suited for intermittent work. The Dremel 3000 comes in at nearly 2 inches in diameter so would suit those with larger hands.  For longer work or for those with smaller hands the grip handle accessory is recommended. I used the tool for engraving and found it easy to control.

The power flex is a good length and there’s no extra power adapter so the drill is working at line voltage. The flex is slightly stiff but I did not find that this caused me any issues when working and it generally kept out of the way.

 

The Dremel 3000 has a variable speed control. Typically you’d run it at max speed for fine drill sizes and at a lower speed for grinding or polishing. Wire brushes have a maximum rated speed to reduce the chances of the wires coming out. The control is marked from off to 10 and is in steps rather than continuous but this is plenty for the range of the drill. As with most speed controls there is also less power with the lower speeds. This was noticeable when I was cleaning an anvil using a small flap disk.

 

The pricing of the kits puts them in the reach of the hobbyist but the Dremel is at the top end. It does feel a robust tool and that you are getting good value for money. You can see it is well made as can be seen in this tear down video.

The spindle supported by two 1/2 inch diameter bearings ensuring low vibration even for sideways loading such as routing. The brushes can be replaced without opening the case which should mean easy servicing. Spares can be purchased for all of the components of the drill meaning that you should get a good life from the drill.

The nose of the dremel unscrews and there is a 3/4″ X 12 TPI BSF thread for attaching the add-ons. There is a plunge router base for detail routing jobs as well as a fixed router base suitable for creating cutouts in drywall. In addition there is a flexible shaft suited for getting into small spaces or to avoid hand fatigue. Other accessories help with sharpening, grinding and sanding.

The Dremel 3000 is an upgrade from the popular 300 model. Looking at the specifications, features and exploded diagram I don’t see a big difference in the two models.  So there is not much point in upgrading if you have a 300. I would expect however that the spares for the 300 will eventually become harder to acquire so given a choice then the 3000 is a better option.

If you are looking for a new rotary tool then the the Dremel 3000 is a good place to start.

About the reviewer

Andy has been making and repairing in a shed at the bottom of the garden since 2008. His often quirky and imaginative projects have won him prizes and a trip to the New York Maker Faire. You can find out more at workshopshed.com