Best Rotary Tools

Whether you’re an engraver, woodworker, contractor, remodeler, or a simple hobbyist, you know how important a good rotary tool is to your workshop. It might look very simple at first glance, but what sets this power tool apart from other tools you have in your arsenal is the presence of different accessories that are capable of accomplishing multiple functions, including sanding, polishing, and machining. It can also be used for grinding, honing, engraving, and drilling. No wonder it is one of the most indispensable tools in any workshop.

Maybe you just got into a new hobby and you want a basic rotary tool to get started. Or you’re a professional and your Dremel tool suddenly stopped working in the middle of a project. In this article, we’re going to talk about what a rotary tool is, its many applications, and dish out some safety tips when using this indispensable power tool. We’re also counting down the best rotary tools available online so you can make an informed decision when shopping.

When selecting a rotary tool, it’s crucial to consider your specific needs, budget, and the types of projects you’ll be undertaking. Each of the mentioned rotary tools possesses its own strengths, so make sure to evaluate your requirements before making a purchase.

1.
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Dremel 4300-5/40 High Performance Rotary Tool Kit with LED Light- 5 Attachments & 40 Accessories - Ideal for Grinding, Cutting, Wood Carving, Sanding, and Engraving
Dremel 4300-5/40 High Performance Rotary Tool Kit with LED Light- 5 Attachments & 40 Accessories - Ideal for Grinding, Cutting, Wood Carving, Sanding, and Engraving
  • PREMIUM ROTARY TOOL KIT: Includes 4300 high performance rotary tool, 5 attachments, 40 high: quality Dremel accessories, and plastic storage case.
  • HIGH PERFORMANCE MOTOR: Our most powerful motor delivers maximum performance even in the most demanding applications.
  • VARIABLE SPEED: 5,000 – 35,000 RPM with electronic feedback for consistent performance and accurate tool control.
  • UNIVERSAL 3-JAW CHUCK: Allows the use of all Dremel accessory shank sizes making it compatible with the entire line of our high quality accessories.
  • PIVOT LIGHT: Rotates to illuminate your projects even in difficult to reach spaces.
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WEN 23114 1.4-Amp High-Powered Variable Speed Rotary Tool with Cutting Guide, LED Collar, 100+ Accessories, Carrying Case and Flex Shaft
WEN 23114 1.4-Amp High-Powered Variable Speed Rotary Tool with Cutting Guide, LED Collar, 100+ Accessories, Carrying Case and Flex Shaft
  • Powerful 1.4-amp variable speed motor provides 40% more power than alternative rotary tools
  • Features three innovative collars: a drilling/routing guide, an LED light attachment, and a rotatable spark and debris deflection shield
  • Attach the 3-foot flex shaft for jobs requiring intricate and complex detail work
  • Multi-compartment carrying case allows for easy organization of your tool, collars, flex shaft, and 100+ accessories
  • Packed with accessories, including three different collet sizes (1/8”, 3/32”, 1/16”), diamond-coated bits, grinding bits, drill bits, felt polishing wheels, sanding bands, cut-off wheels, sanding discs, and more
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3.
BLACK+DECKER RTX-B 3 Speed RTX Rotary Tool with Storage Case
BLACK+DECKER RTX-B 3 Speed RTX Rotary Tool with Storage Case
  • HIGH-TORQUE MOTOR – 2.0 Amp motor delivers the power you need to finish the job faster without getting bogged down under load.
  • 3-SPEED FUNCTION – Choose 12,000/24,000/30,000 rpm for power and precision across all applications.
  • 3-SPEED DIAL – For “set-and-forget” convenience.
  • UNIVERSAL COLLET SYSTEM – Compatible with all standard rotary tool bits and accessories.
  • FLIP-LOCK SYSTEM – Spindle lock allows for quick and easy bit and accessory changes without you needing to hold down a button.
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4.
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HARDELL Mini Cordless Rotary Tool Kit, 5-Speed and USB Charging with 61 Accessories, Multi-Purpose 3.7V Power Rotary Tool for Sanding, Polishing, Drilling, Etching, Engraving, DIY Crafts
HARDELL Mini Cordless Rotary Tool Kit, 5-Speed and USB Charging with 61 Accessories, Multi-Purpose 3.7V Power Rotary Tool for Sanding, Polishing, Drilling, Etching, Engraving, DIY Crafts
  • 【Versatile Rotary Tool Set】This rotary tool set includes a high-performance and low-noise rotary tool with 61 of the most popular power rotary tool accessories for fine DIY work. Ideal for carving, sanding, grinding, polishing, or cutting, this electric rotary tool is perfect for creating resin crafts. It's like having a whole toolbox in one convenient package. Note: Not suitable for heavy-duty projects
  • 【5-Speed Settings】The cordless rotary tool has 5-speed adjustments (5000/8000/11000/14000/18000RPM) for easier speed control and to meet the power demands of different tasks. This allows for safe and careful sanding in stages, even for beginners who can easily control the speed. With the micro rotary tool, your creations are always handy
  • 【Compact and Lightweight】This rotary tool is powerful yet small and light, giving you ultimate control and precision, as well as comfort, just like holding a pen
  • 【Quick USB Charging and Longer Running Time】The cordless rotary tool comes with a 3.7V rechargeable battery that can work continuously for 200 minutes. A single charge can be used multiple times, making it no worries and convenient. Battery-powered rotary tool allows you to work one after another. (The indicator light will turn green when fully charged)
  • 【Rotary Drill with LED Indicator】The upgraded small cordless rotary tool has a blind spot lighting LED design, which reduces backlight shadows and overcomes the adverse effects of dark areas on the use of the drill for resin. This provides you with a better experience and more precise work
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5.
WEN 2305 Rotary Tool Kit with Flex Shaft
WEN 2305 Rotary Tool Kit with Flex Shaft
  • Perfect for cutting, sanding, polishing, shaping, drilling, deburring, grinding and more
  • Variable speed goes anywhere from 8,000 to 30,000 RPM
  • Includes an 80-piece accessory set of bits, sanding discs, polishing pads, mandrels and more
  • Onboard spindle lock makes for quick and easy bit changes. 2.3mm & 3.2mm collets
  • Attach the included flex shaft for jobs requiring intricate detail and precision
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6.
PROXXON Professional Rotary Tool IBS/E, 38481
PROXXON Professional Rotary Tool IBS/E, 38481
  • Compact precision machines with aluminum die-cast head, quiet, precise and efficient
  • Usable for extended periods when grinding, polishing, cleaning, cutting and engraving
  • Ideal for mechanics, model builders, jewelers, opticians, artists and electronic enthusiasts
  • High-revving motor with full-wave electronic speed control, variable speeds between 5,000 and 20,000rpm
  • Scope of delivery: 1x PROXXON Professional Rotary Tool IBS/E including MICROMOT collet set and 34 bits and cutters. Part number: 38481
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7.
VonHaus Variable Speed Rotary Tool Set with Flex Shaft, Stand and Storage Case Including 34 Piece Multi-functional Accessories Tool Bits Set For Cutting, Sanding and Polishing
VonHaus Variable Speed Rotary Tool Set with Flex Shaft, Stand and Storage Case Including 34 Piece Multi-functional Accessories Tool Bits Set For Cutting, Sanding and Polishing
  • ULTIMATE VERSATILITY: Use the multi-tool for precision cutting, drilling, engraving, grinding, milling, polishing, removing burs, sanding, scraping, sharpening and shaping. The cutting wheels can be used for a variety of light duty cutting tasks – cut through wires, old glue, plastics, pipes, drywall, wood, thin sheet aluminium and more with precision and accuracy.
  • VARIABLE SPEED: 5 position variable speed control with 10,000 - 32,000rpm range – easily adjusted using the thumbwheel
  • ACCESSORY SET: 34 piece accessory set – housed in included carry case – includes 5 X collet, 1 X mandrel, 1 X screw mandrel, 1 X sanding drum, 3 X sanding bands, 5 X cutting wheels, 2 X engraving cutters, 7 X grinding shanks, 2 X fabric wheels, 4 X drill bits, 1 X carbon brushes and 1 X spanner
  • FLEXI SHAFT: Includes a flexi-shaft which provides an extension to the multi-tool - ideal for intricate and professional work such as engraving metals or glass. The flexi-shaft comes with its own stand which securely clamps to a bench or table and includes a hook to hang the multi-tool
  • QUICK and EASY: Features a built-in collet chuck, making changing attachments quick and easy. The VonHaus Multi-tool is compatible with most DREMEL rotary accessories
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Best Rotary Tools

Dremel 4300-5/40 High Performance Rotary Tool Kit with LED Light- 5 Attachments & 40 Accessories - Ideal for Grinding, Cutting, Wood Carving, Sanding, and Engraving

1. Dremel 4300-5/40 High Performance Rotary Tool Kit

Pros:

  • It comes with its own hard plastic carrying case that protects it from dust, moisture, or impact.  
  • Multiple Dremel accessories and Dremel attachments are included in the bundle.
  • The bright LED work light allows you to see your work surface even in poor light conditions.
  • Its powerful motor delivers 5,000 to 35,000 RPM. The speed is variable, ensuring greater control and accuracy whatever your project.
  • It has an ergonomic and non-slip soft grip.

Cons:

  • The quality of the tool can be hit-and-miss.

Sebring Tip:

The DREMEL 4300-5/40 is an outstanding rotary tool kit that combines high performance and versatility. Its powerful motor ensures consistent power output, effortlessly handling a wide range of tasks. With an extensive selection of accessories for cutting, grinding, polishing, and engraving, this kit covers various project needs. The tool’s ergonomic design and variable speed control enhance comfort and precision during use. Whether you’re a professional or a hobbyist, the DREMEL 4300-5/40 is a top choice due to its exceptional build quality and comprehensive features.

Rotary tools have been called and genericized as ‘Dremel’ thanks to the company’s pioneering innovations. It seems that the Dremel tool is still the undisputed leader when it comes to rotary tools.

The Dremel 4000-2/30 High Performance Rotary Tool Kit is one of the company’s best-selling products and there’s no need to wonder why. It has a powerful motor that produces anywhere between 5,000 to 35,000 RPM. The speed can be adjusted according to the material you’re working ⁠— whether it’s etching on delicate glass or polishing corroded brass.

This Dremel tool kit comes with multiple accessories which include sanding discs, polishing pads, and more so you can work on your project with ease.

WEN 23114 1.4-Amp High-Powered Variable Speed Rotary Tool with Cutting Guide, LED Collar, 100+ Accessories, Carrying Case and Flex Shaft

2. WEN 23114 Rotary Tool

Pros:

  • It comes with a spark and debris deflection shield for additional protection.
  • You can see your work area clearly thanks to its LED light collar attachment. 
  • The tool comes with an easy-to-install drilling and routing guide.
  • It has a long flex shaft for producing intricate work.
  • An impressive array of attachments that are neatly organized in a compact clear-top plastic box.

Cons:

  • The carrying case is made of fabric.

Sebring Tip:

The WEN 23114 rotary tool offers reliability and affordability, making it an excellent value for money option. Its durable motor delivers sufficient power for most DIY projects, while the variable speed control allows you to adjust RPM according to your specific task. The kit includes a decent selection of accessories like cutting wheels, sanding drums, and polishing pads. While it may not match high-end models in performance, the WEN 23114 is a solid choice for casual users seeking a dependable rotary tool without stretching their budget.

This WEN 23114 Rotary Tool allows you to create masterpieces with different materials or clean your rusty or corroded tools within minutes.

This is not your regular compact rotary tool. This rotary has a fairly bulky body that houses its 1.4-amp motor that delivers up to 35,000 RPM. Keep in mind that the speed can be adjusted depending on the material and type of project you’re working on.

The whole set includes polishing wheels, collets, sanding drums, sanding discs, cut-off wheel discs, and mandrel. It also includes a wire brush, grinding stone bits, drill bits, diamond-coated bits, and more.

BLACK+DECKER RTX-B 3 Speed RTX Rotary Tool with Storage Case

3. BLACK+DECKER RTX-B Rotary Tool

Pros:

  • This is a very compact and lightweight rotary tool that is great for smaller and lighter projects.
  • It is compatible with Dremel and other rotary tool accessories manufactured by other brands.
  • Changing accessories is easy thanks to its Flip-Lock™ spindle lock.
  • It has a 2-year limited warranty.
  • This rotary tool fits any budget.

Cons:

  • It only has three variable speeds.
  • Some sanding discs do not fit the drums snugly.

Sebring Tip:

For those on a tight budget, the BLACK+DECKER RTX-B rotary tool is an excellent choice that doesn’t compromise on performance. Its sturdy motor handles a variety of tasks such as cutting, grinding, and sanding. The three-speed control offers versatility, and the ergonomic design ensures comfortable handling, even during extended use. While the accessory set may be more limited compared to other models, the BLACK+DECKER RTX-B provides good value for money and is ideal for those seeking an affordable rotary tool.

Let’s say you’re just getting into engraving or glass cutting, and you don’t know if this is a long-term hobby or it is going to fall victim to your fickleness. If you’re looking for a heavy-duty but affordable rotary tool for your new hobby, then the BLACK+DECKER RTX-B Rotary Tool might be the best rotary tool for you.

This is a light and compact tool that’s perfect for the casual hobbyist and even professionals thanks to its variable speed and powerful motor. There’s no need to stress out when changing accessories as BLACK+DECKER has made it more convenient with the Flip-Lock™ spindle lock.

HARDELL Mini Cordless Rotary Tool Kit, 5-Speed and USB Charging with 61 Accessories, Multi-Purpose 3.7V Power Rotary Tool for Sanding, Polishing, Drilling, Etching, Engraving, DIY Crafts

4. Hardell Mini Rotary Tool Kit

Pros:

  • Ultra lightweight and portable design
  • Extensive range of included accessories
  • Compact cordless operation
  • Battery with USB charging capability

Cons:

  • Not suitable for heavy-duty tasks
  • Limited battery life

Sebring Tip:

The Hardell rotary tool offers exceptional convenience and versatility for a variety of projects. Unlike traditional rotary tools, this model is cordless and remarkably compact, resembling the size of a pen. Its slender form, weighing merely 5 ounces and measuring just under 7 inches in length, allows for effortless portability and storage.

Hardell Mini Rotary Tool Kit offers an excellent balance of compact size, cordless convenience, and versatility for small-scale projects. Its lightweight design and extensive selection of accessories make it a go-to tool for precise and intricate tasks. However, it’s worth considering its limitations in handling heavy-duty projects and ensuring you have contingency plans for battery life. Overall, this kit proves to be a valuable addition to any hobbyist’s or professional’s toolbox, providing reliable performance for a wide range of applications.

WEN 2305 Rotary Tool Kit with Flex Shaft

5. WEN 2305 Rotary Tool Kit

Pros:

  • This WEN Rotary Tool Kit is compact and lightweight, making ideal for small projects or for occasional use.
  • It includes 80 essential accessories.
  • The hard plastic case allows you to protect and organize your tool, accessories, and attachments.
  • It comes with a flex shaft that allows you to create intricate patterns or reach tight spots and corners.
  • This is the most affordable rotary tool kit on the list.

Cons:

  • The overall performance of the motor of this particular model is poor.
  • It is non-returnable.

Sebring Tip:

Designed for light-duty applications, the WEN 2305 rotary tool kit is compact, affordable, and reliable. Its modest motor provides sufficient power for basic tasks like cutting, drilling, and grinding. The variable speed control allows customization based on project requirements. While the accessory selection may not be as extensive as higher-end models, the WEN 2305 still offers a decent assortment. This rotary tool is a reliable option for casual DIYers or hobbyists who require an affordable tool for occasional use.

You’ll either love the WEN 2305 Rotary Tool Kit or completely loathe it. It’s a great compact tool for small-scale projects and ideal for hobbyists. It has a good enough motor which produces up to 30,000 RPM (if it’s working as it should).

What I like about it is the inclusion of the flex shaft. Keep in mind that this is a budget rotary tool kit, so the addition of the flex shaft comes as a surprise.

PROXXON Professional Rotary Tool IBS/E, 38481

6. Proxxon 38481 Professional Rotary Tool IBS/E

Pros:

  • It has a nice hard polypropylene carrying case that protects it from dirt, debris, and moisture.
  • The accessories and attachments are neatly organized in the box (unlike other units where they are stored rather haphazardly).
  • This is a compact and lightweight rotary tool.
  • The variable speed can reach up to 20,000 RPM. 

Cons:

  • This rotary tool is pricier than most.

Sebring Tip:

The PROXXON 38481 is a professional-grade rotary tool known for its precision and durability. Its high-quality motor delivers consistent power, even during demanding tasks. The tool’s electronic speed control allows for fine-tuning of RPM, enabling precise work. While the accessory set may be more limited compared to other kits, the PROXXON 38481 excels in build quality and reliability. It is the preferred choice for professionals and serious hobbyists who demand exceptional performance and precision.

The Proxxon 38481 Professional Rotary Tool IBS/E is the ideal tool for hobbyists and professionals alike. It is compact and lightweight, making it easy to wield in case you’re working on delicate material or you’re creating intricate detail.

The housing is durable thanks to its reinforced polyamide construction. The gear head, on the other hand, is made of die-cast aluminum. The package already includes an assortment of bits and cutters, plus steel collets.

VonHaus Variable Speed Rotary Tool Set with Flex Shaft, Stand and Storage Case Including 34 Piece Multi-functional Accessories Tool Bits Set For Cutting, Sanding and Polishing

7. VonHaus Variable Speed Rotary Tool

Pros:

  • It includes 34 accessories, including an assortment of bits, collets, sanding bands, cutting wheels, and more.
  • The flex shaft is included.
  • It comes with its own stand so you can have it within reach while you’re working.
  • The powerful motor can produce up to 32,000 RPM. The speed can be easily adjusted with the dial located on top of the unit.
  • This is easily the most affordable rotary tool on the list. 

Cons:

  • The flex shaft is the rotary tool’s weakest link as it is not well-made at all.

Sebring Tip:

Offering a balance between performance and affordability, the VONHAUS Variable Speed Rotary Tool features a reliable motor that provides adequate power for various applications. Its variable speed control ensures versatility and precision, while the ergonomic design guarantees comfortable handling. The kit includes a decent selection of accessories, including cutting discs, grinding stones, and sanding drums. Overall, the VONHAUS Variable Speed Rotary Tool is a reliable choice for those seeking a capable rotary tool at a reasonable price.

When it comes to price and number of accessories and attachments included, one of my favorites in this list is the VonHaus Variable Speed Rotary Tool. It comes with multiple sanding bands, engraving cutters, grinding shanks, and fabric wheels. You will also receive several drill bits, a sanding drum, collets, and more. Everything is neatly stored in a durable plastic carrying case, while the metal stand that can easily be clamped on the edge of the table is a nice addition too.

The motor’s performance is reliable and performs well even under pressure. It delivers up to 32,000 RPM, making it perfect whether you’re engraving, polishing, drilling holes, or sanding wood. The vibration is kept at a minimum, while the motor is relatively quiet compared to other units.

But keep in mind that this is not ideal for heavy use over long periods. This is ideal for crafters and hobbyists.

Best Rotary Tools

What Is A Rotary Tool?

A rotary tool is a power tool used for a wide range of applications, such as cutting, polishing, sanding, sharpening, grinding, and honing different materials. It can also be used for carving, engraving, and routing. 

Unlike other tools that you can only use to cut or drill a certain type of material, rotary tools are prized for their versatility. This handheld power tool can be used on metal, glass, plastic, wood, and many more.

One question that’s probably been bugging you for some time now is why it is called ‘Dremel’ even though other brands have produced their own rotary tools.

You probably know that Dremel is an American company that designs and manufactures power tools. The man behind the company — and the first rotary tool — is the Austrian immigrant and prolific inventor, Albert J. Dremel. In 1935, he designed a handheld power tool that could rotate at high speed. Plus, it had removable accessories that could grind, carve, polish, and cut different materials.

For many years, Dremel dominated the market and was the undisputed leader when it came to rotary tools. The company and the product became so linked that the Moto-Tool was genericized as ‘Dremel.’ Even today, many people still call the power tool ‘Dremel’ even when they are manufactured by WEN or Makita or Black & Decker.      

So, how does a rotary tool work?

As the name suggests, the spindle is the part of the rotary tool that spins. It is linked to the tool’s motor, as well as connected to the collet and the tool’s collet nut.

The rotary tool has an on and off switch that is usually located at the lower part of the power tool. The speed control is located on the upper portion of the power tool for easy access. 

Rotary Tool Applications

All of these applications are made possible thanks to its interchangeable attachments and accessories. It can be used for grinding, cutting, carving, and engraving. It can also be used in drilling, sanding, polishing, and cleaning.  

Attachments And Accessories

Sanding

This includes attachments such as sanding discs, sanding bands, and flap wheels. Other attachments under this application also include detail abrasive brushes, finishing abrasive buffs, and carbide shaping wheel.

Cleaning and Polishing

Clean or polish your workpiece with the rubber polishing point, bristle brush, carbon steel brushes, and stainless steel brushes. 

Some units also come with brass brushes, nylon brushes, felt polishing wheels, and polishing cloth. Others come with impregnated wheels and a polishing compound.

Cutting Wheels

This includes regular and fiberglass-reinforced cutting wheels, carbide cutting wheels, and diamond wheels. You can also buy crosscut blades and cutting bits for your rotary tool. 

Grinding and Sharpening

Abrasive wheels, grinding wheels, and grinding stones are sometimes included in the package. They are made from aluminum oxide or silicon carbide.

Some units have a chain saw sharpening stones and finishing abrasive points.

Carving and Engraving

You can carve or engrave designs on wood or glass with the rotary tool’s assorted cutters. These include high-speed cutters, engraving cutters, and diamond wheel points. Tungsten carbide cutters and structured tooth carbide cutters are also available.

Drilling

Some rotary tools have drill bit sets, brad joint drill bit sets, and glass drilling bits.

Routing

You can also use a rotary tool for routing. Some rotary tools come with an assortment of routing attachments, including straight, V-grove, chamfer, corner rounding, and more.

Other Accessories and Attachments

When you purchase a rotary tool, you will also get some mandrels, a Dremel chuck, a collet nut kit, and a dressing stone.

Keep in mind that not all attachments and accessories are included in the package of some rotary tool brands. They are sold separately, but the good news is that they are easy to find in your local hardware or online.

Want more home remodeling ideas, tips, and product reviews? Then check out our blog for more.

Best Rotary Tools

How To Use A Power Tool Safely

  1. Always read and understand your product manual before operating your rotary tool.
  1. Make sure that your workshop is clean, well lit, and ventilated. 
  1. Do not use your rotary tool where flammable gases or liquids are kept. Keep your work area free from dust.
  1. Rotary tools produce dust and spark that could damage your eyesight. Invest in a good pair of safety glasses to protect your eyes from dust, spark, or even shrapnel. A dust mask should also be worn to protect your nose, throat, and lungs.
  1. Inspect your tool, accessories, and attachments before using your rotary tool. Never use cracked or damaged attachments to prevent accidents or injuries.
  1. You might see many people engraving or carving a workpiece with one hand and holding the rotary with the other hand. Keep in mind, however, that this is unsafe. Always use a clamp or vise to secure your workpiece to the table.   
  1. Be mindful and firmly grip the tool with both hands to prevent it from bouncing or snagging.
  1. Turn your rotary tool off and wait for the wheel to stop completely before setting it down on your table or workbench.

Check out this video for more safety tips and general information about rotary tools.

Conclusion:

I hope you’ve enjoyed our review of the best rotary tools available online right now. We’re nearly at the end of the road, but a review is incomplete without giving my favorite rotary or ‘Dremel’ tool.

And the best rotary tool for me is still the original Dremel 4300-5/40 High Performance Rotary Tool Kit. The performance of its motor is impressive, and it is one of the most reliable rotary tools on the list. The setting ranges from 5,000 to 35,000 RPM, giving you maximum control of the tool whether you’re cutting a piece of pipe or engraving an artwork on glass.

It also has a pivot light that illuminates even the tightest nooks and crannies of your workpiece. The number of attachments and accessories are also impressive. The durable hard case and the plastic box keeps your Dremel tool, attachments, and accessories in place.

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