9 best rotary tool with flexible shafts

A rotary tool with a flexible shaft is a versatile and handy tool often used in various DIY, home improvement, and professional applications. It consists of a handheld motor unit connected to a flexible, slender shaft that ends in a rotary attachment or chuck.Here's what you need to know about these tools:

  1. Versatility: Rotary tools with flexible shafts are incredibly versatile and can perform a wide range of tasks, from cutting, grinding, sanding, and polishing to drilling, engraving, and carving. They are commonly used in woodworking, metalworking, jewelry making, and other crafts.

  2. Precise Control: The flexible shaft allows for precise and controlled movements, making it ideal for intricate and detailed work. Users can access tight spaces and work on delicate materials without much difficulty.

  3. Interchangeable Attachments: These tools often come with a variety of interchangeable attachments or bits, including cutting wheels, grinding stones, sanding drums, and polishing brushes. This adaptability allows users to switch between tasks seamlessly.

  4. Variable Speed: Many rotary tools with flexible shafts feature adjustable speed settings, enabling users to tailor the tool's performance to the specific task at hand. Higher speeds are suitable for tasks like cutting and grinding, while lower speeds are better for polishing and engraving.

  5. Portability: The compact size and lightweight design of these tools make them highly portable. They are easy to transport to different job sites or use in various locations around your home or workshop.

  6. Ease of Maintenance: Rotary tools with flexible shafts are relatively easy to maintain. Lubricating the shaft periodically and replacing worn-out attachments are the primary maintenance tasks.

  7. Safety Considerations: While these tools are versatile, they can be dangerous if not used properly. Users should wear appropriate safety gear, such as safety glasses and dust masks, and follow manufacturer guidelines to prevent accidents.

  8. Brands and Models: Various brands offer rotary tools with flexible shafts, with Dremel being one of the most well-known manufacturers in this category. Different models may have unique features and specifications to suit specific applications.

  9. Price Range: The price of rotary tools with flexible shafts can vary widely depending on the brand, features, and included accessories. Basic models are generally more affordable, while advanced models with additional attachments and features may be pricier.

In summary, a rotary tool with a flexible shaft is a versatile and compact power tool suitable for a wide range of tasks. Its flexibility, precision, and ease of use make it a valuable addition to any DIY enthusiast's or professional's toolbox, allowing for intricate and detailed work in various materials.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best rotary tool with flexible shafts on the market
  

Flexible Shaft Rotary Tool Extension

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Flexible Shaft Rotary Tool Extension

User questions & answers

Question: Is the shaft a steel cable or tight spring
Answer: What is a foredom handpiece?
Question: Will this fit my wen dremel 2307? will this last long time if use almost everyday? what does come with it
Answer: Yes I use 1/4 in. Wood carving bits.
Question: What size and thread is the collar? Will it fit a populo tool from amazon
Answer: No reverso
Question: What is the inside diameter of the screw on portion of the shaft? I have a Craftsman moto tool and mine is like 7/8 inches
Answer: Total Length: approximately 98cm / 38 inch

Product features

Remove the Collar

First, if is your rotary tool has a threaded collars on the motor end, you will need to remove it by turning ccw (counter clock wise). You will need the collar when you attach a tool directly to the rotary tool. You will not need it with the flex shaft.

It is a good idea to lube the flex shaft prior using. You can remove the shaft entirely and grease it.

Silver End of Flex Shaft

Hold the flexible shaft by the silver color fitting end (you will be able to see the inner shaft core). And pull the inner core about 2 inches. If you need a pair of pliers to hold it, that’s normal.

It is a good idea to lube the flex shaft prior using. You can remove the shaft entirely and grease it.

Insert Flex Drive Shaft Core

MAKE SURE THE ROTARY TOOL IS UNPLUGGED FOR THE NEXT STEPS

Attach the core of the flex shaft into the rotary tool collet just like you would attach any kind of tool with a 1/8″ shaft. The flex shaft is there to transfer the rotation, that’s it. It is just like an extension. Push the core of the flex shaft into the rotary tool collet and tighten the collet. You can use the collet lock button to prevent it from turning while you are tightening the nut.

Screw on Silver End

You can now screw the silver color fitting end of the flex shaft onto the rotary tool housing. This is where you removed the collar. We are now done attaching the flex shaft to the rotary tool. From now on, the next steps are about attaching the bit or burr to the flex shaft.

Black End - Tool Attachment

The other end (BLACK COLOR) of the flex shaft is where you will insert the desired attachment tool such as a diamond disc or a burr. You will be using the silver chrome L shaped piece for this stage. There is a hole on the side of the black side of the flex shaft. And there is another hole under the black side.

Tool Attachment - Flex Drive Shaft

When you align these two holes by turning the silver tip on the black end, insert the L shaped metal. This step may sound confusing but it’s simple. The inner metal part on the black end of the shaft will want to turn as you try to attach the tool. The L shaped metal is there to help you hold it while you try to twist the tip.

Tool Attachment - Flex Drive Shaft

You can now attach the bit. And tighten the nut at the tip of the black end of the flex shaft.

Using Flex Drive

Using Flex Drive

VOTOER 1000W Rotary Tool Flex Shaft Electric Hanging Grinder Carver, Forward and Reverse Rotation, Multi-Function Metalworking Jewelry Repair Kit, Foot Pedal Control, Metal Flexible Shaft, 30000 RPM

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price
  • Flex Shaft Rotary Tool hanger hang the motor overhead and long cable allow you to work your way around your work.
  • The more powerful 1000W motor turns bits at speeds ranging from 500 to 30000 RPM, delivering the performance you need for numerous tasks.
  • The Forward and Reverse Rotation of the grinder is a perfect plus for different grinding. Some pratical attachments included in the set come in handy for cutting, drilling, polishing, deburring, metalworking and more.
  • A sturdy metal flexible shaft and 6.5mm diameter handle are included so that you can use a bit on an object and leave your other hand free to turn the object as you work.
  • Ideal for precision accurate work. Excellent for carving, buffing, drilling, polishing, sanding, cutting, cleaning, finishing, adding textures, and reaching small spaces as well as delicate areas.【90-day guarantee. Contact seller if you have any problem with it.】

User questions & answers

Question: How long is the flex shaft
Answer: The Archeon series use a 1880D recycled nylon canvas.

Product features

Forward and Reverse Rotation

The Forward and Reverse Rotation of the grinder is a perfect plus for different grinding. You can perform your grindering talent with it.

Strong Power

The powerful 1000W motor turns bits at high speed to deliver the performance you need for various tasks.

Air Hose

Air outlet helps radiating, prevent machine burn.

Flexible Shaft

Metal flexible shaft features good extension for precision work. Soft, durable and heat-resistant, ensures long lasting service time.

Wide Application

Multi-use rotary tool for cutting, sanding, polishing, drilling, burr removal and more.

Included Chuck Key

Chuck range: 0.4-6.5mm

Why we choose plastic pedal?

Steel material may vary the speed more obvious, but steel material will conduct heat and easily hurt user. After exploring many times, we decide use plastic.

The plastic electronic pedal design ensures safety and prevent heat and leakage of electricity.

Adjustable the foot pedal

If you feel the speed adjustment is not very various, there is a screw on the pedal to adjust the constant speed and rotating speed.

Pakcage list:

1x Chuck key;

2x Carbon brush;

8x Sanding bands;

6x Sanding disc;

9x Grinding heads;

2x Sanding tape connect rod;

1x Slice rod;

1x Flex Shaft Grinder

780W Strong Power Flex Shaft Hanging Grinder, 23000 RPM Electric Multi-function Metalworking Tools, 1/4"HP Rotary Tool Repair Kit, Foot Pedal Control Metal Flexible Shaft (780W)

Based on 35 reviews Check latest price

Product description



Flex Shaft Grinder Carver Rotary Tool Features:



Load Power: 780W

Chuck range: 0.4-6.5mm

Application: for cutting, sanding, polishing, drilling, burr removal and more

Pakcage list:



1x Chuck key



3x Wool felt



2x Carbon brush



10x Sanding bands



3x Sanding disc



9x Grinding heads



2x Sanding tape connect rod



1x Slice rod



1x Flex Shaft Grinder



1x Foot Control Pedal



Note:



Our package included some simple basic accessories. If you want to grind/carve different materials, you need to get more accessories by yourself according to your needs. Thanks much for your understanding.

  • Load Power: 780W;
  • Speed: ranging from 500 to 23000 RPM;
  • Some attachments bits included as showed in the picture;
  • Chuck range: 0.4-6.5mm;
  • Application: for cutting, sanding, polishing, drilling, burr removal and more

VOTOER 2pcs Inner Flex Shaft Flexible Cable Wire Attachment Part Grinder Rotary Tool Replacement Accessories

VOTOER

Product description

2 Pieces Inner Core Spring Rotary Drill Tool Attachment



Note: 1. Shaft should be greased when replacing part.

2. Be sure to UNPLUG your motor before doing any maintenance and NEVER operate your grinder with the outer sheath removed.



  • 38" length, the flexible flex shaft cable is long enough to reach more working space.
  • It is a sturdy inner shaft replacement for your grinders. A must have for your grinding tool!
  • 8mm / 0.31 inch inner diameter of connection. Can be widely used for the maintenance of your flex shaft motor.
  • Rotary flexible, easy to install and convenient to use. This is the real deal replacement for most flexible shaft grinders rotary tools.
  • Flexible Shaft is especially suitable where the machines cannot be moved. Direct replacements for our shop flex shaft grinders.

VOTOER 1/8 inch Flex Shaft Adapter Attachment, Flexible Power Drill Extension Cable Chuck for Compatible Electric Drill Rotary Tool Grinder Woodworking Tools for Carving, Sanding and Polishing

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Specification: Shaft length: 35" (89cm) Connecting Rod Size: approx.3mm (1/8") Overall Length: approx. 35.5-Inch/ 90cm Length of Handle Chuck: 5.5-Inch/ 14cm Chuck Clamping Range: 0.3-3.17 mm (1/8 inch)

Package content:

1x Shaft

1x Wrench



Note:

- When the product lacks torque and excessive vibration, reinstall the flexible shaft and keep it vertical and empty, let the machine find balance before use it.

- When in use, the flex shaft should be hung on the bracket as excessive bending will cause the handle to generate heat, which might cause the hose and the handle to be disengaged. The minimum recommended bend radius is 6.

- It is not recommended to cut and use together with the size of accessories larger than 8MM. Injecting some Lubricating oil on bearings and hoses can effectively lubricate and dissipate heat.

  • This flex shaft adapter is the perfect addition for your electric grinder/driller rotary tool and 35" length provides flexibility to reach out-of-the-way spots.
  • Ergonomic pen design with comfortable rubber grip makes easy, comfortable carving, sanding and polishing, decrease your working fatigue.
  • Easy installation to rotary tool in seconds and convenient to use. You just need the connector handle be clamped to the electric grinder.
  • Includes a universal chuck head which can hold 0.3-3.17 mm. Can be widely used in drilling, engraving, milling, grinding works etc,. and fits most dremels.
  • The flex shaft can be used with drill bits, sanding and polishing kits, wire brushes, countersinks, flap wheels, mounted stones and grinding wheels.

WEN 2305 Rotary Tool Kit with Flex Shaft

Based on 10 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Remember when a rotating tool was just a thing of dreams? Carve, cut, grind, deburr, engrave, shape, drill, polish and other verbs all with the WEN Rotary Tool Kit. Equipped with over 80 accessories, this package provides a wide variety of bits and discs to meet the needs of any project. Variable speed ranges from 8,000 to 30,000 RPM with adjustments at the simple turn of a knob. The lightweight build makes intricate designs easy to execute, allowing you to carve small and complex designs into glass, plastic, wood, steel and more. Remove rust from rusty stuff. Trim your dog’s toenails. Engrave beautiful images into your neighbor’s windows while they’re vacationing in Rome. The possibilities are endless, limited only by your imagination and federal law. And because it is a WEN product, your rotary tool comes backed by a one year warranty, a nationwide network of skilled service technicians, and a friendly and helpful phone line. Remember when you had versatility and power all in the palm of your hand?

From the Manufacturer

Rotary tools are one of the most flexible tools around. The WEN 2305 Rotary Tool Kit with Flex Shaft allows for precision details on your projects. You can polish, sand, grind, cut, drill, remove burrs and shape with this tool. Variable speed of 8,000 to 30,000 RPM with a powerful 1 AMP motor and double insulated for safety. If you can imagine it, this tool can achieve it. Clean and restore those older pieces of furniture. Add some interesting detail work to others. You can do cut outs in drywall, cabinets and more. Includes 80 accessories for all your cutting, grinding, polishing, sanding and drilling needs and conveniently stores in a custom case. Rating: 120V, 60Hz, AC only

  • 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

User questions & answers

Question: does anyone know if it will accept the Dremel style three jaw keyless chuck
Answer: Amazon sells the Wen 2305-KC three-jaw keyless chuck, which fits this unit and works great, and will attach directly to the unit or to the flex shaft.
Question: Does this unit include any dry wall cutting bit
Answer: The bits cut dry wall but not included, and the TOOL adapters from Steel DO NOT FIT, no matter what he says this unit is in mm, steel fractions of inches they dont fit. The tool itself is great tho, I own 2. For over a year and it still buts exhaust, bolts and does very fine engraving on glass wood. I can't believe the price. Oh amd my wife has one too and loves it
Question: will this fit on dremal brand drill press accessary? (Dremel 220-01 Rotary Tool Work Station ) thanks
Answer: No No No!Dremel flange nut will sort of hold it, but don't expect to drill anything other than at an angle because the Wen is cocked to one side due to the fact it is metric, and the dremel is standard. I ordered this because this questions answered section said they are compatible. I have to now send it back.
Question: does it fit Dremel bits
Answer: Yes. I bought a set of assorted grinding and sanding bits and a set of collets that were all Dremel brand and everything fit fine.

Product features

The WEN Variable Speed Rotary Tool Kit

Remember when you had versatility and power all in the palm of your hand? Remove rust from rusty stuff. Trim your dog’s toenails. Engrave beautiful images into your neighbor’s windows while they’re vacationing in Rome. With the WEN Rotary Tool the possibilities are endless, limited only by your imagination and federal law. Equipped with over 80 accessories, this package provides a wide variety of bits and discs to meet the needs of any project. Variable speed ranges from 8,000 to 30,000 RPM with adjustments at the simple turn of a knob. The lightweight build makes intricate designs easy to execute, allowing you to carve small and complex designs into glass, plastic, wood, steel and more.

And because it is a WEN product, your rotary tool comes backed by a nationwide network of skilled service technicians and a friendly customer help line. Carve, cut, grind, deburr, engrave, shape, drill, polish and other verbs all with the WEN Rotary Tool Kit. Remember when you had one tool that could do it all? Remember WEN.

Cutting

Slice through wires, old glue, plastics, wood and more with precision and accuracy.

Engraving

Carve images or text into glass, mirrors or other surfaces in order to create your own unique designs.

Grinding

Deburr jagged edges or remove unwanted rust to make old metals shine like new again.

Sanding

Smooth out bumpy and rough surfaces using one of the wide variety of included sanding bits.

Accessories Include:
Looking for an Upgrade?

The WEN 2305 Rotary Tool Package includes the same wide variety of accessories found with the WEN 2307 Rotary Tool with two additional distinctions. The 2305 package also includes a handy carrying case along with a flex shaft for maximum comfort and control during operation. The flex shaft prevents users from having to hold the actual rotary tool. Instead, simply attach the preferred bit to the end of the flex shaft for a rotary tool experience that limits vibration and maximizes reach and control. Perfect for projects requiring intricate design work or for accessing tight places.

VOTOER Flex Shaft Inner Flexible Cable Wire Attachment Replacement Part Long Bench Grinder Rotary Tool Accessories, Sturdy Stainless Steel

VOTOER

Based on 16 reviews Check latest price
  • 38" length, the flexible flex shaft cable is long enough to reach more working space.
  • The flexible shaft is made of high quality stainless steel, ensures a long service life.
  • 8mm inner diameter of connection. Can be widely used for the maintenance of your flex shaft motor.
  • Rotary flexible, easy to install and convenient to use. This is the real deal replacement for most flexible shaft grinders rotary tools.
  • Flexible Shaft is especially suitable where the machines cannot be moved. Direct replacements for our shop flex shaft grinders.

User questions & answers

Question: What do you grease it with when replacing shaft
Answer: You will meet a tall dark stranger and fall in love with him.

Product features

Stainless Steel Coating

Outer shaft is stainless steel. Durble and Flexible.

Inner Shaft included

Complete flex shaft (inner and outer) for flexible shaft motors. Shaft connection diameter: 8mm / 0.31inch

Long Shaft

Total Length: approximately 98cm / 38 inch. With the shaft, you can hang the motor overhead and long cable allow you to work your way around your work.

Easy Exchange Replacement

Direct replacements for our 380w and 780w flex shaft grinders. Very simple to exchange the flexible shaft.

Dremel 225-01- Flex Shaft Rotary Tool Attachment with Comfort Grip and 36” Long Cable - Engraver, Polisher, and Mini Sander- Ideal for Detail Metal Engraving, Wood Carving, and Jewelry Polishing

Dremel

Based on 7 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Dremel 225 flex shaft attachment has a flexible, 36-Inch shaft that attaches easily and adds an improved level of versatility to your project. The Quick connect attach system allows you to easily attach the flex-shaft to your Dremel rotary tool. A 5” bend radius provides more flexibility and fits comfortably in our hand. The integrated shaft Lock button allows on the hand piece allows you to easily change your accessory or attachment. The flex-shaft holds up to 1/8” shank, and works with both the collet system and the Dremel chuck.

  • Tight spots, nooks, and corners - They're all easily within reach when you add the 225 flex-shaft attachment to your Dremel rotary tool
  • Flexible 36-inch shaft attaches easily; Enabling craftsman, jewelers, woodworkers and DIYers the extended control and flexibility to drill, cut, carve, and polish even the most delicate of projects
  • Compatible with Dremel rotary tool models 4300, 4200, 4000, 3000, 200, 100
  • Integrated shaft lock button on the hand piece allows for easy accessory changes
  • Ideal for DIY or crafting projects like detail sanding, carving, engraving, cutting, cleaning and polishing
  • 1 year warranty & USA-based customer service – Available by chat, email, phone or visit us at our service center in Racine, WI
  • Comfort grip hand piece allows finger tip control to cut, grind, sand, sharpen, polish and more

User questions & answers

Question: Will this work with the 4200 I just got for Christmas
Answer: The Dremel Flex Shaft 225-01 fits models (according to the Flex Shaft package): 800, 8200, 8220, 275/100, 285/200, 395, 398, 300, 3000, 400, 4000, 4200. The Flex Shaft package says on the back, "This attachment is compatible with the 4200 when used with the 4200 Attachment Adapter found in your Dremel 4200 kit."
Question: I wonder if this will this help for drilling glass? Will it take a keyless chuck? Thanks
Answer: I use the keyless chuck almost exclusively on all my Dremels. The flex shaft attachment needs no chuck. The 225-01 flex shaft is heavier built than the older models and seems to stay cooler and easier to "steady "when doing boring or precision carving. The Diamond Dust coated bits from Dremel and others work well on glass. Don't get too aggressive, keep the heavier pieces cool, and possibly lubricate the thinner glass while grinding or boring. running water keeps the micro dust down, saves cracking pieces, and adds to the safety of the operation. Wear your goggles and N-95 mask. The Flex Shaft will need a good rinsing, drying, and light oiling after working with glass. Try to avoid the spade-type glass cutting bits unless you have a lot of glass to waste, or a drill press with a precision Quill and really stable vise.
Question: dremel 225-01 Will this fit my Dremel
Answer: dremel 225-01 Will this fit my Dremel 4200
Question: This product works for a black & decker
Answer: I have the Black & Decker RTX-B and the attachment fits perfectly.

Product features

SANDING

Sand, smooth, shape or grind wood and fiberglass for clean finishes or surface prep

CARVING/ENGRAVING

Whether its engraving soft or hard materials Dremel offers the right accessory for every application

CUTTING

The versatility of a rotary tool allows you to cut just about any material with the right accessory.

CLEANING/POLISHING

Put the sparkle on your projects & clean tough-to-reach areas on a variety of materials.

AVID POWER Rotary Tool Kit Variable Speed with Flex Shaft, 101pcs Accessories and Carrying Case for Grinding, Cutting, Wood Carving, Sanding, and Engraving

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price
  • Six-Speed Adjustment: Variable speed range from 10,000 to 32,000 RPM allows for adjusting rotation speed flexibly according to different working duties and the type of materials being used
  • 101pcs Versatile Accessories: With 101 pieces of versatile accessories provided, this tool can be used to do all kinds of home projects or crafting jobs, such as grinding, cutting, sanding, carving, polishing, drilling and more
  • Flexible Shaft: The flex shaft is perfect addition for your rotary tool, allowing you to maximize the reach and control.
  • Ventilation Design And Easy To Use: Large ventilation opening dissipates heat in time, allowing the rotary tool to be operated for a long time; Spindle lock is for easy and quick accessories change; rubber-covered handle provides a comfortable grip for better control
  • What You Would Get: Rotary tool with 6.1Ft/1.85m cord, 61pcs accessories, flexible shaft, carrying case, user manual

User questions & answers

Question: I need to make a perfect circle. will this fit the dremel circle cutter? https://smile.amazon.com/dremel-678-01-circle-cutter-straight/dp/b000hi5wty/r
Answer: Although model 521ze has a 4 cycle engine, it has a Tecumseh engine, while the Toro 421 and 621 have 4 cycle Loncin engines, these are different 4 cycle engines so I would not buy this carb for the 521ze/Tecumseh engine. Also take note of the compatible models listed in the 'Application Remarks' and you will see the 521ze' is not listed. Good luck.
Question: Is it strong enough that you can drill holes on shells with this
Answer: awesome. Fast delivery. Repaired our Kubota.
Question: Has anyone used this tool to sand (carved) styrofoam
Answer: No this carb will not work on a Toro 210r. The Toro 210r is a 2-cycle engine. The 'HOOAI Carb is for "Toro 421 & 621" which are 4 cycle engines.
Question: Can you use it to sharpen knives and tools
Answer: I personally only sell the OEM versions of the paddles. I have tried the aftermarket options over the years and have never had much success as far as durability, fit and finish and overall performance of the machine. So, yes, these are OEM parts.

Product features

Why Choose Us?

AEDT128 multifunctional rotary tools with 6 variable speed and 61 accessories are perfect for all kinds of home projects or crafting jobs, such as grinding, cutting, sanding, carving, polishing, drilling and more. It includes a flexible shaft for comfort and fingertip control.

Great Compatibily

It accepts most brands bits

Adjustable Rotation Speed

With 6 levels of RPM starting from 10,000 to 32,000, it ensures optimal cutting speeds for your choice.

Flexible Shaft

Flex shaft can be attached to the rotary tools in seconds, easy to reach the hard-to-reach places.

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