My first introduction to a Foredom flex shaft unit was back in 1978. After graduating from a machinist trade school I dove right into tool & die, specializing in plastic injection molds.Foredom was the only brand used in all the plants and shops I worked at because they were made well enough to withstand the rigors of constant daily use, and cost upwards of $500 back then.I got to know them very well over the decades of my career, sometimes using them for full 12-hour days. They were virtually maintenance-free.Well, now I finally own one! I can't believe it after all these years.There is a difference between the old ones made in the US and this one from China. The old ones were usually 1/4 hp, whereas this one says 1/6 hp on the user manual cover. There is also the pedal which is plastic and much lighter than the older models. Oddly enough, the modern cast iron-housed motor is much heavier than ever. That's a good thing.Real Foredom? Yes, I have no doubt this unit was manufactured in China for Foredom, and is being sold basically unbranded for a huge discount. The SR series are literally identical to this one, and usually cost around $300. My unit only says 'Foredom' on the handpiece and the booklet, but they're not fooling me.I can't quite see putting this machine through 12-hour shifts of polishing a mirror finish inside something like a refrigerator door panel mold, but it's perfect for all my hobbies and remodeling work.Now, I should mention the 3-jaw #30 handpiece that came with it. It's great for chucking up odd-sized drill bits and other things, but I never used them much for grinding stones, and especially carbide burrs. Anything using a lot of sideways force will eventually cause the chuck to wear out while the shank slowly slides out of the handpiece.Instead, I'll be ordering the #44T handpiece soon since the machine has proven its worth. It uses collets for 3/32", 1/8", and even 1/4" shanks, and locks them in very securely. I have plenty of experience with the 44T, and can easily justify the added sixty-buck purchase.Again, I can't believe this deal.It came boxed well, the unit runs very quietly, and there's no real heat felt in the motor, handpiece, and pedal.Folks, this is a quality machine for a fraction of the usual cost.DISCLAIMER: I paid the full price for this item, and I do not sell or trade my opinions for trinkets and freebies.
Brianstech 
