power carver revisited

[Gary Chapman]

I was just in the shop carving with my roto-zip and flex shaft and it quit. I have had it for a while and was doing some heavy duty carving when it just gave up. I have been looking for a good heavy dut carver for some time. I have a turbine one but it bogs down on heavy work and will not take a large bit.
Can anyone steer me toward a good brand? Thanks Gary

 

[john lucas]

There might be better flex shaft machines but I really like my Foredom. I have a Weecher and an off brand and the Foredom is hands down better.
I have a friend who purchased the flexshaft from Woodworkers supply that goes to a drill press. He jury rigged it up to a 1/2hp motor that sits on the bench. It will really hog out wood but the shaft is too stiff and tires you out if you do very much.

 

[Gynia]

There are electric die grinders which can hog off a lot of wood. They take 1/4" shank bits. Makita makes them as do many other tool companies. These die grinders are not designed for any detail work.

The Arbortech mini can hog off a lot of wood. Not meant for detail work.

A 4 1/2" right angle grinder will accept different discs and can quickly vaporize wood. Not so much on the detail.

Having different tools for different parts of the carving process could be the solution.

 

[Mark Mandell]

My 45 yr. old Foredom "CC" is still going strong. Replaced the the handpiece, shaft and sheath, and also got a reciprocating handpiece. Used it on wood, bronze for carving chasing and whatever.

Woodcarver's Supply also markets a 1/2 hp machine under their "Mastercarver" brand. Great selection of burs and bits. Good people to deal with.

www.woodcarverssupply.com