The Dremel 400 XPR Rotary Tool and its large collection of bits are housed in a customized storage unit.  This storage unit was engineered to maximize access and organization.  There is a molded integrated handle, trays on each end of the storage unit, custom tool holders, side compartments, and configurable trays.

The integrated handle makes it easy to carry the entire kit off the shelf, to the job, and when done...back onto the shelf.

The molded trays help with the organization of all the different bits, sanding discs, and tightening tools.  The top trays in the bins are removable to allow the user to configure their own storage setup. Divider inserts were included so users can make varied size bins and organize the parts in any way they want.

There is also a bottom slot on each end of the storage unit.  These slots hold the same size bins as those on top.  Moving the bins around is quick and easy...just pull the tray out and slide it into place on top.

Three of the four trays that come with the kit are already full of different sanding disc and bits.  We'll be doing another FirstLook review on the bits and attachments...so more details on them later.

Two latches hold the case closed.  There is also a built-in padlock hole if we need to secure the contents of the case.

The inside of the case is designed to keep all the tools well organized and accessible.  There are spots for additional bits, blades and canisters.  To help the user get the tools back into their space, each tool's spot has an identification icon.

The Dremel 400 XPR main motor can be used by itself or with attachements from the kit (router, jugsaw, and planer).

There is a flexible shaft to extend the rotary function into areas where the main motor unit would not fit.  There is also a special slot for the instruction manual...which slides out of the way into the side of the box.

We will be spending some time digesting the manual and Quick Start booklet before jumping into our first project...but it is going to be a fun winter!

Dremel is a name folks have associated with high-quality rotary tools ever since we can remember.

Dremel has put together a rotary tool kit that has a large collection of tips and attachments useful for all kinds of applications. We thought it would be perfect for our RainyDayMagazine readers so we got a unit to see just what comes in the kit and what can be done with it.

In the FirstLook review, we will see what comes in the box.  Since this toolkit is so extensive, we've decided to divided the FirstLook review into a few parts:

FirstLook Reviews:

1. Overview

2. Attachments

3. Tips

For the FirstUse reviews, we will try four different projects, each designed to exercise a different capability.

FirstUse Reviews:

1. Polishing

2. Cutting

3. Routing

4. Planing

For the InTheWild reports, we'll report on how the different attachments performed as we use it in the various RainyDay Renovation projects in 2006.

Review Summary:

Initial Impression- Self-contained

Usability- Amazing flexibility

Durability- 5 year warranty.

Price- $250

NOTE:  It is VERY IMPORTANT to wear eye protection when using a rotary tool.  Just Do It.