rotary hobby tools ("Dremel"-type)

[Adam Funk]

I'm thinking of getting a Dremel or Dremel-like rotary tool for taking stubborn things apart, improvising spare parts, making a mess, etc.

Among other things, I've seen some sets at Maplin in the £25 to £32 price range (their codes N52FX, N14BG, N60GR), but I don't recognise the brands so I wonder if they're any good. A genuine Dremel 8200 from screwfix.com is £100.

Comments on brands & quality? Other recommendations?

Are the blades & such interchangeable between brands?

I see that the Dremel 8200 only comes with one battery, but it's a Li-Ion, so that shouldn't be a problem, right?

[Mike Harrison]

I like the Proxxon IB/E mains drill - a bit heavier than the 12V ones but no messing with external PSUs. Only disadvantage is it won't take a 3-jaw chuck (shaft is too recessed) so you're stuck using collets