Best Rotary Tools for Gourds
A rotary tool can be one of your most useful tools in your gourd tool box. Along with a quality woodburner, you'll have two of the most used tools a gourder needs. Given the amount of bits and attachments available, and a relatively low entry point into getting one, I wanted to take a moment and go over the best rotary tools for gourds. Just to make sure we are on the same page a rotary tool is a handheld power tool (battery or A/C) with a rotary tip that accepts a variety of attachments for a wide variety of tasks. Its compact size, versatility and high speed make it an appealing alternative to large, bulky power tools. With the best rotary tool, you'll be able to carve, cut, and sand - not just gourds but several DIY projects you may be working on.
For a quick look at how a rotary tool will be useful, have a look at this video by Welburn Farms.
When we were considering what the best rotary tool for gourds might be, we wanted to look at items such as size, weight, heat levels, corded vs cordless, number of bits/accessories you'd get and of course price. While that was our critera for the sake of this discussion, it shoul be worth everyone's time to:
Consider the following:
- Sanding drums - A sanding drum can be attached for sanding and carving bevels. When using a sanding drum, you’ll want to make sure you'll have a rotary tool with a variable speed setting. The best practice is to set the rotary tool's speed at medium when using a sanding drum.
- Buffing/polishing bits - These bits attached to a rotary tool to add shine to metal surfaces. While you probably won't be using them as much on gourds as the other bits and wheels, they still could have their place depending on the particular project you are working on.
- Carbide bits - These bits will be the one you are using the most. These bits come in various sizes and are used for etching or carving. Again, having a variable speed will greatly help when using your carbide bits.
- Some of the other bits you may find, but perhaps won't be using on much on gourds include:
- Wire wheels - Attach these to a rotary tool for removing rust from metal. When using a wire wheel, set the tool at high speed.
- Sharpening wheel - These may be attached to a rotary tool for sharpening knives, scissors, shears and more. Set the tool at high speed when using a sharpening wheel.
- Carbide-metal cutting wheel - These may be used at medium speed to cut through small pieces of metal. Use cutting oil on the metal's surface to reduce heat.
Other items to Consider:
- Power- So the first consideration will be cordless vs corded. Corded models will have more power, while cordless provides portability, however they are heavier and obviously will have a limited power supply. When considering power, also take heed of the upper voltage range, and look for higher voltage for longer run use time.
- Speed - Again, we favor a variable speed range. A cordless model will have RPMs ranging from 5,000 RPMs while a corded model will have the same 5,000 RPMs, but also get as high as 35,000 RPMs. The wider the speed range, the more versatile your tool will be.
- Attachments - Be careful here - generally speaking attachment’s only go to the same branded tool. Bits however can be interchangeable, provided the shank size is the same. The more specialized the tool - the fewer the accessories and attachments it will have. Don't overlook a flex shaft for extra control and maneuverability.
- Replaceable Motor Brushes - These aren’t' necessarily super expensive tools - but you'll want to extend the life as long as possible. Tools with replaceable brushes will help with that.
So let’s get down to brass tacks, and see which model is the best rotary tool for gourds ends up being.
Best Rotary Tool For Gourds
GOXAWEE Rotary Tool
Why it’s on the list:
This is Amazon's best seller, and for good reason. The Goxawee is a corded drill, which is going to give you the full range of RPMs, 8,000 to 30,000 RPMS. It has an easy to use dial to find the speed you like. Variable speed ideal for carving It has a powerful motor for the price and it feels just right in your hand. Comes with more accessories and attachments than the comparable Dremel 3000. The keyless chuck seems like it could accept normal-sized drill bits, which is a plus for this tool. It provides a strong rotary tool with plenty of versatility. The price isn't quite as high as the Dremel, but as expected, you’re not getting all the bells and whistle that go with it. In particular, not having the replaceable brushes is a bit of a liability, but we still think you'll be happy with this tool.
- Includes a flex shaft for detailed work. Able to get into tight places.
- Comes with a number of bits and accessories - more than any other rotary tools including the Dremel
- Good carrying case
Watch out for:
- Flex shaft not as durable as Dremel
- Doesn't vent heat efficiently
Dremel 8220-1/28 12-Volt Max Cordless Rotary Tool
Why it’s on the list:
This Dremel is a top-notch hobbyist tool with a broad selection of accessories. My only reservation is the size of this model which can be a bit awkward to manage in tight places. However, the right-angle attachment helps get around that drawback. I like this unit for the power/speed, which is fully adjustable via a slider switch. In fact, it can sometimes be a bit --too-- powerful: with a grinder bit loaded, you can chew through more material than you may have anticipated at max RPM if you're not careful.
- Cordless gives great portability option
- Cordless, but due to battery - still able to offer 30,000 RPMs
- One hour charge time
- Compatible with all other Dremel bits/accessories
Watch out for:
- As with all cordless models - battery life will very - as well as charging times
- Heavier due to battery pack
Dremel 4000-2/30 High Performance Rotary Tool Kit
Why it’s on the list:
Very similar to the 8220, however this is corded vs cordless. This kit will come with two additional attachments and 30 accessories. As with other Dremel products, as you find other attachments/accessories, they are all interchangeable. Find what works best for you.
- Corded Dremel provides highest amount of RPMs
- Compatible with all other Dremel bits/accessories
- Built in such away it won't overheat, allowing for longer run times and less discomfort
- Most accessories including: 50 Genuine Dremel accessories & 5 attachments including the Flex shaft, circle cutter & Straight edge guide, shaping platform, multi-purpose cutting kit, shield, & Lawn mower & garden tool sharpener
- Replaceable brushes – motor brushes can be replaced to extend tool life
Watch out for
- Higher Price than other rotary tools
- "refurbished" models don't hold up well
WEN 2305 Rotary Tool Kit with Flex Shaft
Why it’s on the list:
If you are buying this one, you're buying it based on price - and that's fine. This little package packs quite a bit with it. You'll still end up with a great flex shaft, and plenty of bits and other attachments to complete a wide range of projects. Ultimately for a few bucks more, we recommend going with the "Corded Deluxe w/Steady Grip". This will give you a bit more comfortable hold on the tool as well as even more attachments and bits. You'll have no problem being able to carve, cut, grind, deburr, engrave, shape, drill, and polish with the WEN Kit.
- Over 190 Accessories
- Lightweight
- Variable Speed for added control
- Storage Case
Watch out for
- Collet needs to be very secure to avoid parts spinning off
- Motor durability - may seem to quickly slowdown during use
TECCPO Professional Rotary Tool 8,000-35,000RPM
Why it’s on the list:
Another strong alternative to the Dremel brand that is fantastic for your crafting work. The tool has plenty of power for a variety of gourd and wood craft work. It will perform quite nicely for metal craft work as well. The tool has had a lot of attachment for your drilling polishing and grafting works. The weight is minimal so it makes easier to work for long duration. The length of the card it's sufficient to reach you at your workplace.
- Flex Shaft
- Keyless Chuck for easy switching of bits
- 8,000 to 35,000 RPMs
- Auxiliary handle for specialty projects
Watch out for
- Poor Manual
- Heats up more than other units
As you can see there are plenty of options to choose from, varying in price, attachments, accessories as well as corded vs cordless. To say one tool is the best rotary tool for gourds over another is somewhat a matter of personal preference and economics. However, we think that at some point each crafter is will definitely benefit by having one of these tools at their disposal.