I have gone through 5, count them 5 of this model. 3 failed right out of the box! I had an older Dremel from about 1997 but sadly it was stolen from my shop. The basic design is flawed. The motor and switches get clogged and choked with dust and debris from everything I have tried to cut. The stop button to change the tips locks up. The on/off switch is so difficult to turn on and off I almost cut my hand off. I am saddened to see what has happened to the Dremel. Bosch seems to have taken a once great tool and ruined it. Same as they did for Skil. I am not trying to bash Dremel. I purchased the 3956-02 model and it works fantastic. Its just seems to be the 400-6 model. My recommendation is to skip this model and go for the less expensive Dremel 3956-02 model.

I have gone out of my way to review this Dremel under each of its listings (for the various kits it is included with) because I don't find any other reviews sharing my opinion.

I have owned 2 other Dremels, and used at least a half-dozen. I looked forward to owning this one since first seeing it advertised. It looked to be a significant improvement.

I bought this Dremel because it is the only one that works with Dremel's new multisaw attachment. With that attachment, which is sold separately, you can use it like a miniature reciprocating saw (Sawzall). Just pop any "T" or "U" shaped jigsaw blade in, and you're in business. I don't know of another tool that can be used in this way, and for that reason and that reason alone this Dremel is worth owning.

I already own another multiple-speed Dremel, and I thought I'd sell it once I bought this. But I'm keeping both because this new Dremel simply feels cheap and poorly made. It seems like its plastic case is flimsier and it doesn't feel as balanced when it's operating. It certainly isn't ergonomic. Any Dremel user who buys this latest model will instantly notice the drop-off in quality.

On the good side, the multisaw attachment works well and the molded plastic case is designed to hold the Dremel, the multisaw and planer attachments, jigsaw blades, the included circle cutter and flex shaft. The kit also includes two bit sets that lock onto the top of the case, with room for two more on the sides.

There's no way I can tell if this Dremel will last. I've put a pretty good load on the motor, and it hasn't failed. But I think that if I drop it more than a few feet onto a hard surface, it will break. The shaft lock button feels particularly cheap and uncertain. I expect it to break first.

Despite all my concerns I'm keeping this Dremel. But I'll only use it when I need the multisaw or planer attachment. Any other time I'll use my other Dremel (model no. 3956-02).

It's extremely unfortunate that at the same time it has chosen to make the most versatile Dremel yet, the company also decided to cut corners on quality. Dremel doubtlessly wanted to keep the price down on this unit, but in doing so they've produced a multi-function tool that feels like a toy.

Keep in mind that this is not a heavy duty construction tool.

This tool will NOT be useful for:
a) cutting wood studs,
b) cutting large numbers of nails (though a couple is ok),
c) cutting large holes in drywall/sheetrock.

You will want to
a) avoid using in dusty environments. The internal parts are not sealed so that if you do not repeatedly clean it out after heavy use, you will kill the motor. (I should know. I killed mine after cutting through drywall for only 4 recessed can lights before it started smoking.)
b) move slow. It works by high rpms and has almost zero torque. Bring it to full speed and THEN cut.
c) use ear plugs. These suckers get very loud at the higher settings.
d) check out alternatives if you want construction equipment. The Dremel is actually MORE expensive than its alternatives because you are essentially paying for its small size.

What I like about the Dremel:
a) It is small.
b) It has more attachments and accessories than you can shake a stick at.

What I hate about the Dremel:
a) The documentation sucks. If you don't know the difference between a routing bit and a carbide bit, or what polishing creame is used for, then you're up a creek. The accessory packs are especially horrible. Nothing is labeled. You need to be able to tell what type of spindle goes with what type of gadget and the equivalent grit of the grinding stones by trial-and-error only.
b) Has small range. Only really useful for finishing and polishing. Very very light duty. I've heard people talk about using Dremel for this and/or that. When I tried it, it didn't work. Then I read in the little amount of documentation there is, that its not meant for doing that. Lots of misperceptions. Basically, do all the rough cutting work using other tools and finish off with this.
c) Accessory hell. Accessories are how they make the $$. Be prepared to pay through the nose for anything that doesn't come in the first box.

Since I don't own a drill or reciprocating saw, I thought that this tool would replce those. I live in an apartment and need it only for small jobs. For the most part it had worked as a replacement for those. However, I still needed to buy quite a few parts not included in the kit - drill bits, blade for the saw, extra chucks. I realize that I'm not quite utilizing the tool for its intended use, but it has served my purposes. I've been fairly happy the few times I used it. Just note that the tool get very hot with extended use. Overall, this was a good package with the best variety of tool attachments, as for the bits themselves, they could have provided a better selection and slightly better instructions for their use.

This is probably a good hobby "tool," but the motor is really too weak for any medium duty work. I was using the circle cutting attachment (and spiral cutting wood/multipurpose bit) to cut a hole in some 1/8" plywood, and the motor started smoking and sputtering. I shut the thing off thinking it overheated (after less than 30 seconds of use) but it wouldn't turn back on. I used it a few times before it died to cut some protruding wood screws, and it seemed okay, but as mentioned above, the XPR is best relegated to lightweight work. It seems to me that Dremel is more interested in hocking a zillion attachments that you'll never use rather than building a solid performer. I'm going to Home Depot right now to pick up a Rotozip.

Lastly, a gripe. Why do people post reviews on items (especially tools that people rely on for important tasks/work), with content that has nothing to do with the tool's functionality? Most of the reviews of this item don't tell you anything about the tool's functionality/durability, but instead deal with availability and cost! Dead giveaway that the users of this thing don't take their tools very seriously, which in turn suggests that XPR users are couch-warriors who watch a little too much Discovery channel.

The XPR is a modest departure from the traditional Dremel Handle. Ergonomically, it may be a slight improvement, operationally I don't see a great diffence with the expception of the variable speed and the on/off switch being seperate, although I think some of the previous models have this feature as well. Dremel engineers tried a little too hard to make a compartmentalized "carry all" style tool box for this unit. I find it cumbersome, especially due to the difficulty in storing the power cord for the drill handle itself. All the little drawers are tedious to deal with. The "sabre saw" attachment works but I would rather use a conventional sabre saw. The Dremel really doesn't have the power to handle that kind of cutting. Overall a good product at a reasonable price.

I've been using Dremel tools for years and made the mistake of buying the cordless model a few years ago. I decided to make it right and buy this corded model with all of the goodies.
br /
br /The reality is that I don't need all of the extras that came with this kit. But who cares? I experienced a certain level of glee when I opened the box and found lots and lots of attachments to play with. That in itself makes it worthy.
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br /Moving on to the performance of this tool. It's the most powerful Dremel at 2 amps. It has worked well over the last week that I've owned it. I've ground metal, polished, cut and sanded with it. The tool doesn't slow down significantly when pressure is applied like the cordless model does.
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br /So overall, I'm happy with my purchase. Bear in mind, you shouldn't use this tool for any "monster" project. I'm guessing that it will slow down, burn out or just plain disappoint you. I find that trying to substitute one tool for another when you know you shouldn't usually doesn't work out. So use common sense when deciding what projects the little dremel will be good at.
br /
br /Oh, and one more thing. That little jigsaw attachment seems like a piece of junk at first. But I used it. While it can't compare to my 6 amp Bosch, it will cut 1/4" plywood just fine!

...but it's pretty close. I may have gone with 4.5 but none is available so I had to go with 5 stars. This kit has just about everything anyone could want for detail work in and around the home. This new unit has more power than previous Dremel's I've owned, enough to even cut through 5/16" hardwood plywood using the mini-saw attachment. I was able to custom cut a number of strange angles sitting on the roof of my house to make each siding piece fit perfectly. This saved me going up and down the ladder or lugging larger tools to the roof, also allowing me to make minute adjustment trims realtime while being able to test fit each piece.
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br /I use every accessory that comes in this kit and can't believe the number of tasks I'm able to complete on my 45 year old house. For those that don't understand the numbering of this kit, the 400 is the new hand held unit with more power although it does run a bit hot so be sure to cool it off when working it hard - the 6/90 represents 6 external attachments and a total of 90 pieces. I usually throw the plastic storage cases away that come with other tools but the one Dremel provides with this kit is a keeper. Dremel is American made and they do stand behind their products, in my own personal experience. Just remember not to burn this or any other power tool out when working it hard. I just burned out a heavy duty drill I've been using to mix cement and epoxies by letting it overheat and not backing off - then next thing I knew was it sparked, smoked and quit working. Time for a new drill! I did the same thing once with a Dremel and after describing the issue via their web site, they sent me a new unit, no questions asked.
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br /I'm happy with this kit and think most people will be too, just remember to follow the rule of the right tool for the right job and you shouldn't have any issues with this Dremel tool.

When my old dremel finally gave out, I needed a quick replacement to finish a project I was working on at the time. This kit had all the attachments I needed for the project and then some. This dremel is a lot better than my old one. Seems to not bog down as much under load like my old one did. The tool box is well designed and now holds all the little bits I had from past projects.
br /The only problem I have with the dremel is that it gets quite hot when running at high speed.

The first time I held the Dremel 400 XPR I knew I was holding a real quality product, with its thin multi-colored plastic housing similar to a cheap chinese toy. I finally found the adapter needed to attach the snake extention and the 'single' fiberglass reinforced cutting wheel amongst the wide variety of practically useless accessories. It was nearly impossible to tighten the collet with the little blue push button that you would expect to find on a Pez dispenser. After about 15 minutes of light use, the Dremel 400 XPR began to emit copious amounts of blue smoke and smelled of burning plastic and epoxy. Not finished with cut I was making, I stopped the Dremel 400 XPR and let it cool off for a bit, thinking it may just be burning itself in. I took the snake extension off and resumed cutting, when all of the sudden, the Dremel 400 XPR started sputtering like an arc welder, and emitted a blue ball of glowing plasma from the air vents! I dropped that thing like a hot potato in fear of my life. It sat there on the ground sputtering and smoking until I unplugged it from the wall socket. It no longer works. Never again will I buy another Dremel product, I will look for a suitable American made, quality product to replace it.

Pros: Cost.

Cons: Emits smoke and glowing plasma. May catch you or your home on fire. Push button does not hold collet very well. Overall build quality extremely poor. Most of the accessories are cheap and not used very often.

Highly NOT recommended!

I received the 400-6/90 a couple days ago. I just unboxed it and I must say that I'm looking forward to using it from all the included pieces and attachments. It's a more complicated device than I anticipated (due to its multi-function nature and the various methods of attachment that such a characteristic necessitates), but if one is going to be adding this tool to their arsenal, they'll most likely possess an ability to (at least attempt to) assimilate the unknown with a calm that should offset the likely layperson's "You need a degree in rocket science to use this" initial response. Oddly enough, while so many different bits and attachments are included, MY kit came devoid of the absolutely necessary 2.5mm allen wrench. Of course, I have a set of allen wrenches, but I don't want to have to go grabbing the toolkit with them in it in order to insert and secure a saw blade in the MultiSaw attachment. There's an indentation for it in the very well thought out storage/transport case just as there is one for the included collet wrench. Every spot for a tool is marked with where it goes (or a suggestion in the case of small piece options where multiple possibilities can be effected). It almost seems as if Dremel would prefer you not to be able to use the MultiSaw attachment to not provide such an essential item. The MultiSaw is the most impetus providing aspect of this kit (most people probably use it FIRST!). I rather think that my kit just happened to be skipped over with this item and I intend to contact Dremel to determine if this omission is by design or mistake. The quality of build is in line with what I expected (I'll pull out a full size Sawzall if I'm looking to cut a big hole in the wall). I'm sure it will suit the jobs it's chosen for quite well - detail oriented jobs, small size materials, etc... I'm very happy I got this kit from Amazon for $20 more than the inferior selection kit at Home Depot (don't recall the model # now). I just bought a keyless chuck on E-Bay (a no brainer given the extreme low cost and virtual elimination of the need for collet and collet wrench use). Sure, the replacement parts for bits and such are exorbitant, but with E-Bay and using the right tool for the job, you can pay a lot less than retail and go through them at an acceptable rate (unless you make a living with one of these things, in which case there are real heavy duty professional models available which you'll likely be more apt to possess... and STILL go through them like water).

What a great little tool! Though I wouldn't use it for big jobs, it is an extremely versatile tool to manage all your small projects around the house. I've already used it to cut through wood & drywall to install outlets in my basement and used another attachement to easily saw through metal.

At its highest setting, it will give you an earful, so be sure to wear protective gear (ear & eye protection). And it won't cut very deep, so anything over 1 1/2", use something else. But for anything else, this Dremel tool is a time-saver.

Like every new tool, it will take a little while to get used to it, but once you do, you may find yourself going out of your way to use this little wonder.

We have had this for about 5 months now. Other reviews I have read noted that it seemed to be made of "cheap" plastic. I haven't noticed any deficiencies there. (we've dropped it a few times). It has many usefull attachments and has been invaluable to myself for minor home repair, and my wife for sculpting stone (which she does alot).
br / It has come time to replace the carbon motor brushes (recomended about every 40 to 50 hours of use) and can't find them anywhere online or in local stores. The XPR takes a new kind of motor brush and no one carries it! We're looking at about 150 hours on it now and the motor is showing signs of needing the brush replaced (inconsistant speed and power) so it sits USELESS until this item becomes available.

I have 3 Dremels. 1 cordless and 2 corded including this one. There are only 2 reasons I keep using Dremel.
br /
br /1. The long warrnty.
br /2. It does the job I use it for.
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br /This Dremel was sent in for repair shortly after I got it because it wouldn't hold a bit and it just stopped working. The other cordless was sent in TWICE for repair. And the cordless was sent in THREE times for repair, once for catching on fire. However, each time the tools were repaired and returned quickly.
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br /The other reason I keep using Dremel is because I have not found another tool that can remove grout as well as the Dremel. Of course, I break a lot of bits in the process. But is does the job.
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br /Even though grout removal is not a small job. I've found that the Dremel works best on small crafts and detail work.

Be very careful! Apparently an Amazon supplier is attempting to pass off a Dremel 3/71+ XPR as a Dremel 400-6/90 Series XPR Kit (by overlaying the actual UPC code with a faux UPC code)
but it does not have all of the required parts!!! I am sending the kit I received back in the hopes that Amazon will actually make good on the kit I purchased. If not, I will have to report Amazon to the Better Business Bureau for violation of the UCC rules of representations/warranties!

This tool is poorly designed. Lasted about 2 weeks before burning out. Even the more expensive fiberglass cutting discs do not last for a decent amount of time when cutting 20 gauge sheet metal. Lacks Torque. Might be good for a small job that you only need to use it 2 to 3 times very lightly.

As I inventoried my new Dremel and all its attachments, I couldn't figure out how to attach the light, even with the diagram in the book. It appears that the clip on the light is too large for the insertion spot on the Dremel. I called customer service to inquire as to whether I could have received a light that was meant for a different model or some further instruction on how to attach the light. The customer service representative was so condescending that I was made to feel like an idiot for not knowing how the light attached and she assured me that it did attach the way the book illustrated and implied that, if I would just use some common sense, I could do it. I still don't know how the thing attaches and it really isn't a necessary component for most jobs, so I don't know if I care. The clip is simply larger than the slot it is supposed to go in to. Otherwise, the tool is fine and works like a champ. I would have given them 5 stars had it not been for their employee of the month, customer service burn out.

This is an awesome kit...though I think I might have over-bought. The tool itself is great, and the flexible grip is VERY useful. I have yet to find a use for the planer, though. The saw I can take or leave. If you're just doing hobby stuff, you could probably get something less fancy and still be satisfied. I would recommend this one, however, for home repair tasks.

I have had this tool for some time now and it has repeatedly impressed me by it versatility and ease of use. It really continues to amaze me. Of course I am not a professional person but I am a regular do it your selfer and I use it time and time again to wow my wife as i complete my little projects around the house in record time using it.

i give magnus an A+ for his review and agree with him 100%..operation manual pieces and discription and the bits and accessaries are not label or coded for easy idenification. I had phoned customer service after opening and reviewing the poor discription for such a box full of loose plastic pieces that cost big bucks separately. more in the field of home improvements rather a wood carving hobbyist,i can tell you i bought this for trying to router than chisel the butt plates for 8 interior doors. Not one set of instructions did i find for use of bits intended for this job in the instruction booklet provided. i also broke two cutting disks trying to figure out which or what a madrel was all about. i got to say the 400 doesn't fit in the millcraft router converter i ordered along with this on amazon. so that was a waiste of return shipping charges. I smoked a 193 cutting bit that cost me separately (not included in this 90 piece set) which cost me 8 bucks + tax in a sears hardware store.. the only thing this did was help me save about 5 minutes per door. could have just been better off with my stanley chisels both 1 1/4 & 1 inches could have finished the job the old fashion for less

First, the good: The variable speed on this is great, and it's a handy tool to have around. I had to cut the rusted support collar off an old garbage disposal to get it off my sink, and this did it in probably a minute and a half. I've also shaped Bondo and cleaned out old paint from a pressed-back chair, and it's helped with all kinds of cutting and shaping that otherwise would be time consuming and tedious to do.
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br /BUT... I wanted to replace the motor brushes, and the dang things aren't available anywhere but on line. Dremel sent them quickly enough, and they weren't too expensive. However, my machine was defective -- the old brush on the top (there are two, one on the top, one on the bottom of the machine) wouldn't come out and I ended up breaking the housing. I bought another Dremel just to see if it was my brute strength (not likely) or the machine, and the brush on the second one popped out nice and easily, so it wasn't me.
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br /And when I went to buy the second one, I found that you can't buy this model without a box full of accessories, which made me think that's the only way they can sell this model -- package a bunch of "freebies" with it to tempt newbies into buying it. And make repeat buyers out of us, because the accessories (like the planer, the circle cutter, etc) won't fit other Dremel products. I would have liked to have bought a different model (with brushes I can buy at the local hardware), but the thought of dumping (and replacing) all the accessories was too much, so I'm sticking with the second one and just keeping my fingers crossed that it holds up.

I should have purchased one 45 years ago. The Dremel rotary tool is generally associated with the hobbyist but this is really a general purpose tool. In one week of having it in my possession I have used five times. The multitude of bits and attachments make it a basic household tool.

This tool is useful only as a hobby tool for tiny tasks. It will burn out unless you are very careful. Cutting 10 inches of 1/4 inch thick hardboard is a difficult task with this tool. I wanted to cut two feet of hardboard in half but had the wrong hacksaw. I managed to cut the outer thirds in no time but the middle third needed something else. A lot later I managed to finish the cut with my Dremel. I have almost burnt it out many times and I am usually careful with my tools. I like the idea but the execution is miserable.

After the Dremel package arrived, I could not open and use it for some weeks but when I opened it, I realized that the Dremel XPR 400 and Dremel MultiSaw were definitely used and were not new. Amazon sent me a used or refurbished item. Due to time constraint in my project, I have to use it now and cannot return the product to Amazon but definitely, I am extremely dissatisfied with this practice of Amazon.
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br /Dremel itself is excellent for small projects, 90 accessories sound huge but many are duplicate copies of same accessory thus you have to buy individual accessories as per your project's unique needs. Dremel is for use in small projects and if you expect to use it as a day-to-day work tool, it will fail your expectations. Noisy at high rpm compared to its small size.

Friends told me the Dremel is great if remembering it is not for high torque. It works great when keeping the RPM high and only lightly pressing. The "90 accessories" is a bit deceiving in that each polishing pad or sand paper disc counts as an attachment. I would have been more impressed with the "90 accessories" if it contained a greater variety of saw blades and drill bits and fewer sanding discs and polishing pads.

I have two of these XPR's and use them almost daily. I do a lot of wood working, glass etching, etc.. I have used it for many other projects big and small. This thing has made me money and saved me a lot of money with home repairs and projects.
br /I highly recommend the 400 XPR.

This tool kit is relatively a good deal considering it has a lot of attachements and accessories.
br /For someone who is going to use this tool kit for their hobby job such as small engraving work, grinding and polishing small parts like metal accessory, this is more than enough tool to have.
br /You can do whatever you want with the parts already included in the kit.
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br /For someone who wants to use this kit for their home improvement job, the strength of the tool is far far less than the ability you would like to have. So.. please try to buy regular sized tools.
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br /I bought this kit to repair plastic fairing of my motorcycle which was broken by laying down on the ground. Trim out broken area, sanding off dings and scratches, grind epoxy bumps out, and polish the glued lines were done very smoothly and I was really satisfied with this tool kit.
br /
br /Next I tried to cut a 3/4 inch MDF(medium density fiber) panel and make a 2 inches diameter circle with the included jigsaw attachement and circle cutter attachement. I could do the job as I wanted although it took twice as much time as I expected to spend on it.
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br /Now I have regular sized tool kits too, but I still use this tool in many times even for somewhat medium duty works as long as the job is like making one circle hall or cutting a couple of quarter inch bolt out.
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br /Benefits of using this tool is it has everything and packed in one small box. You can easily pull out the tool you want, use it, and put it back very quickly.
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br /However, this tool kit is definately not a tool for drilling hundreds of halls or ripping 4'x'8 quarter inch plywood unless you want to see smoke coming out of motor unit.
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br /I would recommend this tool kit for hobby work, light duty house work, and very short medium duty works mentioned above.

...I received my first Dremel as a birthday gift 18 years ago! That Dremel finally stopped spinning. I have used the Dremel at some point in almost every project and repair that I've done. This newer tool allows you to set a speed and use a separate switch to turn it on and off (great improvement). It comes with a zillion bits. My only complaint is that the tool box it comes with is fairly cramped and it is more difficult to take the tool in and out.

As yet I have not had a chance to fully test this complete package which includes a jigsaw, planer, circle cutter, work lite, and of course flex shaft. Nevertheless, I do have extensive experience with Dremel's earlier variable speed Multi-pro of which I did everything from the brutal job of minor porting and polishing of cylinder heads to the delicate job of fine tuning my dentures. The small profile of these machines is their strong point where working with larger die-grinder type tools would be sometimes impossible and many times unsafe. After handling the XPR I found the slightly larger profile not to be a hindrance so far and is more than out-weighed by the increase in power. In addition I feel the rotary speed control to be a much more convenient and durable arrangement than the old slide switch. One small thing that is nice is the carrying case. Although it would not stand up to a hard-core job-site environment it is reasonably sturdy and provides four compartments that hold removable clear-top bit and tool cases to keep everything neat and tidy. If the longevity of this tool even matches my previous unit, and I'm sure it will well exceed it, I would be thoroughly satisfied.

This Kit has everything you will ever need in a dremel kit and then some. The carrying case is fantastic holding everything in a well organized fashion with extra space built in for additional bits. The Dremel itself has a nice shape and a convenient on/off switch separate from the rpm dial which can be micro adjusted.

Great tool. Though I actually bought the discontinued 3/70 accessory pack they are almost identical. You could even get a smaller kit and just buy exactly what you need instead. Comes with about every tool tip I could want, except for engraving tips, which would have been nice just to experiment with. It is noisy on high speed, which is used most often, so I will be getting some ear plugs soon for my big job.
br /I've used it to grind another metal tool (wire stripper) so that it would grip more tightly - this worked great! Though you could do almost the same things with a good file set this is much more fun, and quicker.
br /It is recommended let it run on high for 10 minutes before first use to "lengthen the life" of the internal components, so maybe that is what some other negative reviewers did wrong.

My Dremel tool quit turning when I used it for a few months. I returned it to Dremel for repair. They fixed it and sent it back to me the same week, along with an apology letter. They also sent me a new sanding accessory to try "for the inconvenience." I am very impressed with their customer service. Also, I couldn't remember how to put the tool back together, and I couldn't find my owner's manual. It was very easy to go on-line and find an owner's manual. I am very happy with my tool and with Dremel's customer service. They stand behind their products! JS

I used the Dremel for a total of about 5 minutes of light-duty cutting, and it began emitting blue smoke. Since I wasn't cutting anything very thick, I figured this was just part of the break-in process for a new tool. I let it cool and went back to cutting, and after another 10 minutes of light use, it emitted huge amounts of smoke, never to run again. The accessories with this pack are great, but pretty useless with a tool that won't last 20 minutes.

Before I actually bought this dremel, I 've done lots of research. people who work in Homedepot also told me that dremel has great reputation, one on his friend owned one for over fifteen years. here comes the problem I realized that dremel has great reputation but I seldom hear people say they own the latest generation dremel which work very well. My own experience is that I turn it on just want to make sure it would run perfectly. the first ten minutes, I am extremely happy and then after a while maybe the eleventh minutes come,it end up starting making noises and stopped running anymore.It was my first time using it and may be the last time. Now I am sending back to Amazon.

The tool does have a lot of uses and is definitely versatile. But, what other people have remarked holds very true:
br /- a first time owner would have probably liked to have some instructions explaining what everything in the kit does and how it is used. Having to search online to figure out which one is supposed to be the #401 mandrel is lame;
br /- the tool feels in your hand as if Dremel outsourced the design and manufacturing to Fisher-Price;
br /- overheating seems to be a problem - a short session sharpening my lawnmower blade made the motor scary-hot (it hasn't burned out yet, but it feels like it's heading in the general direction);
br /- some attachments are supposed to be limited up to a certain rpm - but in this latest and greatest version of its mainstay tool, Dremel marks the speed selector from 0 to 10. Hard to know what number is supposed to be 15k rpm, the max speed advised by some attachments.
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br /I fell into the trap of "newer must be better", even though the 300 series felt so much better in my hand when I visited the home improvement store...

This came in a very handy carry tool box. It has all of the necessary attachments to do most small to medium jobs. Great storage. Oh! The Dremel is nice too. It is varable speed and easy to grip and change attachments. I am very pleased with the price of the kit as well as its functionality.

I have used the dremel and the cable extension along with some of the bits. The variable speed tool works very well. The case it excellent! It offers tons of storage options and the small boxes attach on to the main case securely but still come off easily when you need them. The diagrams on the box bottom which shows what bits go in is a great idea. Now you know if one is worn out which one to order. Plus it classifies the bits into categories which does provide further help in deciding which bit to use for what job. I have not used the larger attachments as yet.

The tool is easy to use and perfect for all those small jobs that take a long time by hand. You can drill, cut, sharpen, polish or carve. It gets into small spaces and with the variable speed you have complete control while working on your project. It's the perfect tool for the person who has everything. Buying attachments in sets is the most economical way to go so get them at the same time as you buy the tool. Replacements can be pricey.

This is a versatile tool that anyone can use.Additional parts may be replaced as they are depleted. They are available from any store or warehouse that sells hardware. I have most full size power tools but there are times when you need a small high speed tool that can get into the hard to get at spaces. This fits the bill.

I bought this for a Christmas gift for my Son. It came super quick and it looks like a great product. I'm sure he will love it.

This is a great little tool for all the hundreds of things that need to be done around the house. Before we purchased this one we read some of the reviews that complained this was not a heavy duty professional model. And I'm sure they are right - if we cut molding all day long week after week we would probably need a more specific tool. But this has worked well for all sorts of household projects. The only oddity is that the larger chuck (for drilling) was not included. But that can be purchased at Home Depot for eight dollars.

Dremel 400-6/90 Variable Speed XPR Rotary Tool Kit With 90 Accessories
br /Excellent small tool with many uses, depending upon accessories. Great for model builders, jewelry makers and many other small products including engraving on glass and woodcarving. Amazon was best option for this purchase.

I use this tool primarily in my gun smith hobby, meaning metal finishing and wood work. The Dremel 400 series XPR rotary tool has some nice advantages over my older rotary tools. Its ergonomics are better and it has noticeably more power. If you've checked the prices of the attachments you can see why buying a comprehensive kit like the 400-6/90 makes sense. As usual, you have to remember that these tools are delicate and designed for delicate work. Used within it's design limits, you will find this tool to be very capable and will far outlast most of its competitors.

Great product, great price! My fiancee loves it! Shipping was quick and painless. :) Would reccommend to everyone.

I bought one, and burned it out in less than 15 minutes of some light sanding using a 7/8" 80 grit flapper wheel on an aluminum part. Thinking I had gotten a factory defect, amazon exchanged it for me with a new one.
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br /I got it, and set it off to the side, since i had already finished with my other project. Today I picked it up for a new project, I had to cut a small hole into some 20 ga. sheet metal. 10 mins into it with a cutoff wheel, and this one went up in smoke also.
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br /I know I'm not over-using it, I had a similar craftsman rotary tool for over 15 years that I've used for much heavier projects. I figured it was getting old and I'd treat myself and step up to the heavier duty 2.0 amp motor, and the actual dremel brand name tool, thinking it would be better. Boy, was this ever a real awakening. I figured dremel would have been a better product. It's not. I will steer clear of anything branded dremel from now on. It's a toy, not a tool. Wish I could get my old craftsman back, gave that away to a friend. I would go to a craftsman again, but they now appear to be just a rebranded dremel. I never figured there would be a market for vintage rotary tools, but maybe I'll go search ebay for a tool that was actually made with quality, and built to last. this poor thing surely wasn't.

The Dremel works really well grinding mower blades. It only takes a couple minutes. I've also used it to grind metal trims and wood and the Dremel has not let me down yet. The variable speed it nice because it allows you to adjust the speed.

Mine melted like everyone elses. Good for polishing coins and that's about it.
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br /I'll never buy another Dremel toy again.

I bought this for my wife for x-mas. She loves to do little projects and is very hands on. This combination tool kit has everything she needs. I will be purchasing the router table accessory and the drill press accessory too. This is a great item!

I really love this kit...with a couple more attachments I can do almost all the jobs around the house...

This thing is so versatile and handy! I bought it initially to do some lapidary work but have found so many uses for it! It does tend to run a little hot after awhile but I guess thats to be expected when you got this things rpm's maxed because it screams with speed when you want it too.
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br /Going to buy my girlfriend one now too because she realized that it actually can be adjusted to 5000rpms which is 1000 less then the tool that the lady that does he nails at the saloon uses so now she is always wanting to borrow mine.
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br /I Just wish they would make foot pedal that you can adjust the speed with, would make a lot of the work I like to do much easier. Overall though this thing is the best and I would be lost without it, lol I guess my girlfriend too.

As a builder of giant scale model airplanes, this tool is a great enhancement to my hobby. I bought at a tremendous savings, which is very important to me as a retiree.

Has almost every feature you want. Part on power cord keeps falling off but not a big deal.

I bought this item as a Christmas present for my husband. He was delighted when he opened the box, especially the fact it had so many attachments that came with it. Shipping was prompt and everything arrived in perfect condition.

I have ordered may items from Amazon.com, but this kitis "hands down" the best buy for your money. I searched through all of the major building supply stores in my area and the item was not even available. Amazon had it, and got it to me three days after I ordered it. You can't beat that for service.

I figured that I would have to go out and buy additional bits, etc, but when the item was opened, EVERYTHING was there! What a refreshing supprise not to have to take a trip to the store before I started a project.

Thanks Amazon for a superior product at an amazing price.

The product I think will be fine, but a number of the attachments were loose in the box. It was difficult to determine if I received all the various accessories. It was shipped quickly and I am stll very happy with the purchases from Amazon.

I love this tool!! It has been a great tool for my wood working shop and many, many other things around my house!!!!

I ordered this weeks, if not months ago, and I finally got confirmation of shipping today. I do not think it is Amazon's fault though. I called Dremel and they simply did not have the product for shipment until late December 2004 (according to them). I'm sure it is a great package as I have seen the lesser packages at other stores (3/51 & 3/71). Additionally, the parts that make up this 90 piece set have been available separately for some time.

Those who pre-ordered, got the set for $129.99 plus free shipping. I looked around and found the price has gone up at most sites too. I did find a couple sites on Froogle selling it for less than $149.99 (Amazon's current price).

I have only used this a few times so far but has already surpassed the usefulness of my first rotery tool. With all the attachments it is so versitile for any craft and minor home repair projects. I will get balot of use out of it this summer.

This was a great bargain with the 2amp motor and accessories. It is performing great and my 11-yr old daughter and 13-yr old son enjoy it too.

at first they shipped me the wrong kit, it was a 400-3/50 I believe, but amazon took care of that and the dremel works great

If you print out the page with the price and description of the Dremel 400-3/71 Series XPR Kit. Take it to lowe's they will match Amazon's price which is $10 cheaper. They will also match it online too. Goto Loews.com and search Price Match to get more info.

Ordered mine October 1st. Was advertised in stock at that time. Have received an apology and a change of ship date almost every week since then. The latest "promise" is sometime after the first week of December. That was an "improvement" achieved only after I sent a complaint letter. Their ad states that we can save over $100 by buying from them. We actually save a lot more than that because we probably won't ever get it!

Update to original post (11/22): Spoke with Barb at Dremel Customer Service this morning. According to Dremel, this product will go into production sometime in mid-December. It's kind of amusing that Amazon has been "selling" this item since July... Better have Santa pass your request on to the Easter Bunny!

I could not agree more with the previous reviewer. I too ordered this item in mid October and am still waiting the "1 - 2 weeks". If Amazon cannot get this item, then let them be honest with the shopper and tell us it is just not available.

I've had this item on order since mid-October, and so far there has been no change in the status of this item. Get your act together Amazon!

The drill arrived without a chuck. Please send it. When that arrives, I'll use the drill and write a review.

I believe I placed my first Amazon order in May 1997 and have been a regular customer since that time. I rarely write reviews, but I am so angry this time that I am submitting this unfavorable review. I ordered one of these units--I accepted the light duty, and cautions of the other thoughtful reviewers and clicked "order."
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br /What I find unconscionable is the Amazon description of "Availability: In stock soon. Order now to get in line. First come, first served." And now I see that their definition of "soon" is over 30 days off. That is not "soon," not by any reasonable definition, and I will be cancelling my order. I just want the truth. If they can't tell me the truth on "soon", how can I trust any of the remaining description?

The Classic Switch-a-Roo!!, January 4, 2006
Just as stated on this review i also recieved the dremel 400 xpr 3/71 instead of the 400-6/90. Amazon has done its part by paying for the return shipping and stated they will ship the correct one. The only thing is that its out of stock now and wont ship till feb. The bonus engraver offer expires 1-18-06, so im out of luck. I email amazon and all they said is, if i would like to cancel my order. Would be nice to include an engraver themselves when they ship my correct order but i guess im asking for to much now. And yes i know this is not a review but its better to let people know so they wont get taken by a mistake. Still taking the 129.00 price thou.

what can i say? my kit didnt come with any collets,so it cant be used untill i get some. and beware of "roto tool" excessorys that arent dremmel, i got a bunch from ebay,different grinders and such,,none fit the hole. so they are useless to me, except maybe in a full size drill .

Okay...again this is not a review, but when I see items coming soon. I would like to know what Soon is PRIOR to the order. In this case it is min. 1 month...maybe 2. Luckily, I'm in no rush for this.
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br /Also reading thru these reviews, I have seen a few people complaining that they get sent the wrong item (77 piece) and the supplier maybe mislabeling items.

nice but save your money and buy at home depot for $99.99

Everyone knows that Dremel makes the best rotary tools and this is not an exception. All the tools are top quality but there is a problem, too few attachments are included.

According to the Dremel website (dremel-dot-com)this configuration will not be available until Feb '05. That being the case, no sense crabbing at Amazon! However, I think Amazon should be more informed and/or upfront about the situation and either take it off the store or let us know it will be an advance order. I think it will be worth the wait. My $.02 .

It is really annoying to look for information and find stupid comments about service where the items review should be.

Dremel 400-6/90 XPR rotary tool with planer and multisaw. This kit features the new 400 Series XPR rotary tool, a saw attachment for cutting in tight places, a planer perfect for unsticking doors affected by humidity, a flex light attachment to light up the work area and sharpeners for lawn mowers and garden tools.

The 400 Series tool achieves speeds of 5,000 to 35,000 rpm and accepts all Dremel attachments and accessories. (Available at home-improvement retailers.)

One of the best purchases i've ever made on amazon. Excellant tool, everything is at your fingertips.no regrets.

Great Tool... Does everything and more..
br / Have used it several times for various projects.. and works great.

This is my first Dremel tool and I am Glad I waited for the 400 XPR ! it is not you ordinary rotary tool it is the SUV of Dremel tools .

This item finally shipped today, 01/13/2005.. Order away.. This is such a great deal. I got it for $129.99 because I ordered it 2 months ago. I guess all of us that have been waiting all this time got a nice $20 discount + free shipping.

The Foolish comment made by HRVATS in a previous reveiw is completely wrong.
Home Depot does not sell this set for $99.00 -
they sell the Model (400-4/70H) which is the smaller 70pc. set - NOT THIS (400-6/90).
Thanks for comparing apples and oranges - VERY INTELLIGENT ?
Some people should learn how to read before leaving reviews.